About us
Working with our members to drive excellence and consistency in assessment arrangements for schools, colleges and educational establishments across the UK
The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) is a membership organisation bringing together the UK’s eight leading qualification providers.
Formed in 1998, we provide clear, consistent, and equitable guidance for the administration of general and vocational qualifications, supporting our members, schools, colleges, and other educational establishments. Through collaboration and shared expertise, we help drive excellence, integrity, and confidence in the delivery of assessments for students across the UK.
As a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, funded by our members, our main purpose is to simplify and align exam processes, reduce administrative burdens, and uphold the highest standards of integrity in assessment delivery. Our shared commitment is to ensure every assessment is delivered securely, fairly, and effectively, enabling schools, colleges and other educational establishments to focus on helping students to achieve their best.
Our place in the UK education system
JCQ plays a central role in the UK qualification system, working with member awarding organisations, regulators, government departments and other stakeholders to promote a consistent and fair approach to assessment administration in schools, colleges and other educational establishments across the UK.
JCQ’s Articles of Association set out how JCQ is constituted and governed as a community interest company, including its core purpose, powers and decision‑making structures.