European Competence Framework for Quantum Technologies (CFQT)

Reference framework for planning, mapping and comparing QT-related educational activities, personal qualification and job requirements

Official release via the Publications Office of the European Union: https://data.europa.eu/doi/10.2759/8917117

🆕  Certification Scheme for QT Proficiency: guidance on how proficiency levels can be demonstrated in practice, with example tasks and common qualifying works

Try the Profile Creation Tool: Download the PowerPoint file and define your own content map and proficiency triangle coverage using the prepared slide. (Currently based on the CFQT version 2.5)

Background information

The European Competence Framework for Quantum Technologies (CFQT) provides a structured reference for the design, planning, and comparison of education, training, and qualifications in the field of quantum technologies. It supports a broad range of users, including educators, learners, professionals and employers, enabling users to map QT-related competences.

The framework has been developed using a bottom-up approach, with input from a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from academia, industry, and education. Initial insights into the emerging quantum workforce were gathered through an iterative study conducted between summer 2020 and spring 2021, and further refined through domain-specific expert interviews. The European Commission published a detailed Methodology and Version History outlining the development of version 1.0 within the QTEdu CSA.

Following its initial release, the framework was continuously improved. Version 2.0, compiled within the QUCATS project (Coordination and Support Action of the Quantum Flagship), introduced a clearer structure and language, added examples for each proficiency level, and refined quantum business-related skills, as d documented in a report.

In version 2.5, the framework was extended to incorporate findings from a comprehensive industry needs analysis based on 34 interviews. This update led to the introduction of the proficiency triangle, which defines three core areas: quantum concepts, QT engineering (hardware and software), and QT applications and strategies. Additionally, a set of qualification profiles illustrates prototypical qualifications relevant to the emerging quantum industry, including associated training needs.

The most recent update, version 3.0 (April 2025), focuses on clarifications, minor additions and refinements. It is accompanied by the introduction of a Certification Scheme for QT Proficiency, which makes the application of the framework more concrete. The scheme provides guidance on how proficiency levels can be demonstrated in practice, offering example tasks especially at beginner levels and outlining common qualifying works for more advanced levels. It also clarifies the relationship between content domains and proficiency areas and levels.

Summary of related publications:

• iterative study for initial input: Future quantum workforce: Competences, requirements, and forecasts (Phys. Rev. Phys. Educ. Res. 19, 010137, 2023)
• until version 1.0: Methodology and Version History
• update to version 2.0: Towards a quantum ready workforce: the updated European Competence Framework for Quantum Technologies (Front. Quantum Sci. Technol., 2023)
• interview-based industry needs analysis (for version 2.5): Advancing quantum technology workforce: industry insights into qualification and training needs (EPJ Quantum Technol. 11, 82, 2024)
• update to version 2.5: Extending the European Competence Framework for Quantum Technologies: new proficiency triangle and qualification profiles (EPJ Quantum Technol. 12, 1, 2025)
• Profile Creation Tool
• Certification Scheme for QT proficiency: DOI 10.5281/zenodo.15210732.