The NVQ/CVQ can be awarded to candidates who have successfully completed a course of training, job attachment and assessment in accordance with the CVQ system. This may be done in training institutions, schools or the work place.

Another route for the award of a NVQ/CVQ is the Assessment of Prior Learning (APL)/Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR). The APL/PLAR is a method of assessment used to identify, evaluate and document the level of learning outcomes which an individual has achieved from formal, informal and non-formal learning. The modality accounts for the learning an individual acquired from experience in the field, attending workshops, short course, seminars or conferences etc.