What is the difference between the 2365 and the 2357?

The City & Guilds 2365 is the technical knowledge qualification — it tests your understanding of electrical theory, regulations, and principles through written exams and college-based practical assessments. The 2357 (NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Services) is the competence qualification — it tests your ability to do the work in a real workplace through portfolio evidence and assessor observations. Together, the 2365 and the 2357 form the knowledge and competence components of the Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship. You need both (plus the AM2 and EPA) to become a qualified electrician. Some people refer to the 2365 as "the college qualification" and the 2357 as "the work qualification".

Can I do the 2365 without an apprenticeship?

Yes. The 2365 is available as a standalone qualification through private training providers and some colleges. Adult learners who want to retrain as electricians often take the 2365 Level 2 and Level 3 privately, then seek an employer for the NVQ (workplace competence) component. However, the 2365 alone does not make you a qualified electrician — you still need the NVQ and AM2. Some adult learners complete the 2365 privately, then find an employer willing to put them through the NVQ as a mature apprentice. Others complete the 2365 and then work as a "mate" (labourer) to gain experience while pursuing the NVQ through an assessment centre.

How long does the 2365 take to complete?

Through an apprenticeship, Level 2 is typically covered in years 1 and 2, and Level 3 in years 3 and 4, with one day per week at college. For full-time private study, Level 2 can be completed in 16 to 24 weeks, and Level 3 in a further 20 to 30 weeks. Some intensive courses compress the timeline further, but you need time to absorb the material — particularly the electrical science and design content. Evening courses are also available, spreading the content over a longer period (typically 1 to 2 years per level) with one or two evenings per week. The right pace depends on your learning style, work commitments, and prior electrical knowledge.

What exams are in the 2365?

The 2365 Level 2 includes written exams covering health and safety, electrical science principles, installation methods and practices, and an understanding of the Wiring Regulations. The 2365 Level 3 includes exams on electrical design, inspection and testing principles, fault diagnosis, and special locations (Part 7 of BS 7671). Exams are a mix of multiple-choice and short-answer questions. Some units also include practical assessments carried out in the college workshop. The exact number and format of exams depends on the specific units your training provider delivers, but expect 4 to 6 exams per level. Most exams have a pass mark of 60% to 65%.

Is the 2365 harder than the old 2330?

The 2365 covers broadly the same content as the 2330 but is structured differently. The 2365 is aligned with the current apprenticeship standards and BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, so the content is more up to date. Some students find the 2365 more demanding because it includes more emphasis on design and inspection and testing at Level 3. The practical assessments are also more rigorous. However, if you engage with the material and put in the study time, the 2365 is very achievable. Pass rates are high for students who attend regularly and revise consistently.

Do I need the 2365 to become an electrician?

If you are on a Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship, you will complete the 2365 (or the equivalent 5357 Diploma) as the knowledge component of your apprenticeship. If you are retraining as an adult, the 2365 is the standard route for gaining the technical knowledge required. Alternative routes exist — some assessment centres offer accelerated programmes for experienced workers — but for most people, the 2365 is the recognised and recommended path. Without a technical knowledge qualification like the 2365, you cannot demonstrate the theoretical understanding needed for the NVQ, AM2, and EPA.

What practical skills do I learn on the 2365?

The 2365 includes practical units assessed in college workshops. At Level 2, practical work covers installing wiring systems (conduit, trunking, cables), terminating accessories, and basic testing using a multifunction tester. At Level 3, practical work includes more complex installations, inspection and testing procedures, and fault diagnosis exercises. These practical assessments are carried out under controlled conditions with an assessor present. They complement the workplace practical experience you gain through the NVQ. The college practical sessions are particularly valuable for practising skills in a safe environment before applying them on site.

COURSE GUIDE

City & Guilds 2365: Electrical Installation Course Guide

The 2365 is the knowledge qualification every electrician needs. This guide covers Level 2 and Level 3 content, exam format, practical assessments, costs, and how it fits into the apprenticeship pathway.

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15 min readUpdated 2026-06-10Andrew Moore, Founder of Elec-Mate

Written and reviewed by Andrew Moore, founder of Elec-Mate, against BS 7671:2018+A4:2026, IET Guidance Note 3 and the IET On-Site Guide.

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What is the City & Guilds 2365?

The City & Guilds 2365 (Diploma in Electrical Installations) is the technical knowledge qualification for trainee electricians in the UK. Delivered at Level 2 (foundation) then Level 3 (advanced), it covers electrical science, installation methods, BS 7671 and inspection and testing through exams and college practical assessments. It is the knowledge component only — you also need the NVQ and AM2 to qualify.

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Key Takeaways

1The City & Guilds 2365 is the technical knowledge qualification for electrical installations — it covers the theory of how and why installations work, tested through exams and practical assessments.
2Level 2 covers the fundamentals: health and safety, electrical science, installation methods, and wiring regulations basics. Level 3 builds on this with design, inspection and testing, fault diagnosis, and special locations.
3The 2365 is the knowledge component — it does not make you a qualified electrician on its own. You also need the NVQ (competence in the workplace) and the AM2 (practical assessment) to complete the full apprenticeship.
4If you are studying privately (not through an employer-funded apprenticeship), expect to pay £3,000 to £6,000 for the full Level 2 and Level 3 programme depending on the training provider.
5The 2365 replaced the older 2330 qualification (Certificate in Electrotechnical Technology) and is the current standard for new apprentices and adult learners entering the electrical trade.

01 · Course Guide

What is City & Guilds 2365?

The City & Guilds 2365 (Diploma in Electrical Installations) is the technical knowledge qualification for anyone training to become an electrician in the UK. It covers the theory behind electrical installations: why we earth circuits, how to size cables, what the Wiring Regulations require, and the science that makes it all work.

The 2365 is one of three components needed to become a qualified electrician. The other two are the NVQ (proving you can do the work in a real workplace) and the AM2 (a practical assessment of your installation, testing, and fault diagnosis skills). Together, these three components — plus the End-Point Assessment — form the Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship. See the full electrical apprenticeship guide for how the stages fit together.

If you are starting an apprenticeship, you will study the 2365 at college (typically one day per week). If you are retraining as an adult, you can study the 2365 privately through a training provider — either full-time, part-time, or as evening classes.

This guide covers the 2365 in detail: Level 2 vs Level 3 content, course structure, exam format, practical assessments, how it relates to the apprenticeship, entry requirements, costs, and how it differs from the older 2330 qualification.

Reviewed by a JIB-registered electrician, 18th Edition (BS 7671:2018+A4:2026) qualified. Content verified against the current edition of BS 7671 and City & Guilds 2365 unit specifications.

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02 · Course Guide

Level 2 vs Level 3: What is the Difference?

The 2365 is delivered in two stages: Level 2 (foundation) and Level 3 (advanced). Most apprentices complete Level 2 in years 1 and 2, then Level 3 in years 3 and 4.

Level 2 — Foundation

Health and safety in electrical installations. Electrical science fundamentals (Ohm's law, power calculations, series and parallel circuits, magnetism). Understanding electrical wiring regulations (BS 7671 overview). Installation methods (clipped direct, in conduit, in trunking, on tray). Cable types and selection. Terminating and connecting conductors. Using hand and power tools safely. Basic inspection and testing principles.

Level 3 — Advanced

Electrical installation design (maximum demand, diversity, cable sizing using Appendix 4, correction factors, disconnection times). Inspection and testing principles (testing sequence, acceptable values, interpreting results, certificate completion). Fault diagnosis and rectification (systematic fault finding, safe isolation, live testing where permitted). Special locations (Part 7 of BS 7671). Advanced electrical science (three-phase, power factor, impedance, transformers). Earthing arrangements in detail.

Cable sizing rating factors (Appendix 4) — the tabulated current-carrying capacity of a cable must be derated by all applicable rating factors before comparison with the design current. Under BS 7671 Reg 523.2, the requirement of Reg 523.1 (conductor temperature limits) is satisfied where the current does not exceed the Appendix 4 tabulated value "subject to any necessary rating factors". The three most examined are: grouping (Reg 523.5, group rating factors in Tables 4C1 to 4C6 — cables sharing a route lose their ability to dissipate heat, so the more cables grouped, the greater the derating); ambient temperature (Reg 523.4 — Appendix 4 capacities use a reference ambient of 30 °C for cables in air; a higher ambient applies a lower rating factor Ca from Table 4B1 and reduces the rated current); and thermal insulation (a cable surrounded by insulating material cannot shed heat, requiring significant derating or rerouting — A4:2026 revised the Appendix 4 guidance on cables surrounded by thermal insulation).

A4:2026 Updates — Exam-Relevant for Level 3

BS 7671:2018+A4:2026 introduced two regulations that are directly examinable on any 2365 Level 3 assessment aligned to the current edition:

Reg 421.1.7 — AFDDs. This regulation, in Chapter 42 (Protection against thermal effects), addresses arc fault detection devices (AFDDs), which mitigate the risk of fire from arc fault currents. As redrafted, it is a requirement to protect final circuits supplying socket-outlets rated up to 32 A with AFDDs in Higher-Risk Residential Buildings, Houses in Multiple Occupation, purpose-built student accommodation and care homes; for all other premises it recommends AFDDs on single-phase AC final circuits supplying socket-outlets up to 32 A. Know both the device function and where AFDDs are required versus recommended.
Reg 411.3.4 — Mandatory 30 mA RCD on domestic lighting circuits. A4:2026 introduced this regulation requiring that, within domestic (household) premises, additional protection by an RCD with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA shall be provided for AC final circuits supplying luminaires. This is a mandatory 'shall' requirement — domestic lighting circuits must now be RCD protected.

Level 2 gives you the foundation to work safely on site. Level 3 gives you the knowledge to design, test, and certify installations. Both are essential — you cannot skip Level 2 and go straight to Level 3.

03 · Course Guide

Course Structure

The 2365 is divided into units, each covering a specific area of knowledge. The exact unit titles and numbers may vary slightly between training providers, but the core content is standardised by City & Guilds.

Apprenticeship route — one day per week at college over 4 years. Level 2 units in years 1 and 2, Level 3 units in years 3 and 4. The remaining 4 days are spent on site with your employer, building the practical experience for your NVQ portfolio.
Full-time private study — typically 16 to 24 weeks for Level 2 and 20 to 30 weeks for Level 3. Full-time courses run 4 to 5 days per week and include both theory and practical workshop sessions. This is the fastest route but requires being out of work for the duration.
Part-time and evening classes — one or two sessions per week, typically taking 1 to 2 years per level. This suits people who need to work alongside their studies. The slower pace can actually be beneficial for absorbing complex topics like design and AC theory.

Each unit combines classroom theory, textbook study, and practical workshop sessions. The practical sessions give you hands-on experience with installation methods, terminations, and test equipment before you encounter them on site.

04 · Course Guide

Exam Format

The 2365 is assessed through a combination of written exams and practical assessments. The format varies by unit, but here is what to expect:

AssessmentTypical formatWhat it tests

Multiple-choice~40–60 questions, 1–2 hours, pass mark usually 60–65%Theory of regulations, electrical science and installation principles.

Short-answerWritten responses, some units onlyExplaining concepts, describing procedures and showing working for calculations.

Practical assessmentTimed workshop task, assessed by tutor/internal assessorWiring, testing or fault diagnosis judged on safety, quality, accuracy and completion.

Delivery modeOnline or paper — same contentMany centres now use on-screen exams; results are often available immediately.

Exam technique matters. Read the question carefully, eliminate obviously wrong answers, manage your time, and do not spend too long on any single question. For calculation questions, show your working — even if your final answer is wrong, partial marks may be available.

05 · Course Guide

Practical Assessments

The practical assessments in the 2365 are carried out in your college or training provider workshop. They test your ability to apply the theory in a controlled environment.

Level 2 practicals — installing wiring systems using different methods (conduit bending and fitting, trunking installation, clipped direct cabling), terminating cables at accessories and distribution boards, and basic testing (continuity, insulation resistance, polarity) using a multifunction tester.
Level 3 practicals — more complex installations including consumer unit wiring, full testing sequences, completing electrical certificates, and fault diagnosis exercises where you identify and rectify pre-set faults in a test rig.
Assessment criteria — you are assessed on safe working practices, correct use of tools and equipment, quality of installation work, accuracy of test results, and completion within the time limit. Safety is paramount — unsafe practices can result in an automatic fail regardless of the quality of the work.

The practical assessments are excellent preparation for the AM2. Treat every college practical session as a practice run — work neatly, follow procedures, and manage your time. The habits you build in college carry directly over to the AM2 assessment.

06 · Course Guide

How the 2365 Relates to the Apprenticeship

The Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship has three main components, and the 2365 is one of them:

ComponentTypeHow it is assessed

2365 Diploma (or 5357)KnowledgeCollege-based exams and practical workshop assessments.

2357 NVQ DiplomaCompetenceWorkplace portfolio evidence and assessor observations with your employer.

AM2Practical testTimed independent assessment at a JIB-approved centre covering installation, testing and fault diagnosis.

All three must be completed to pass through the EPA gateway and complete the apprenticeship. The 2365 teaches you the theory, the NVQ proves you can apply it in the workplace, and the AM2 tests it all under controlled conditions. They are designed to work together — what you learn in college should directly relate to what you do on site.

Off-the-job training hours

Since 1 August 2025, off-the-job (OTJ) training on an apprenticeship is set as a fixed number of hours per standard — not the old "20% of paid hours" rule. For the Installation and Maintenance Electrician standard (ST0152), the OTJ requirement is 1,066 hours. Your day-release study towards the 2365, plus other structured learning that takes place during paid working hours, counts towards this total.

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07 · Course Guide

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary by training provider, but the typical requirements are:

For apprentices (Level 2 entry) — GCSEs in maths and English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent functional skills). No prior electrical experience required. A genuine interest in the electrical trade and a willingness to learn. Some employers may have additional requirements.
For adult learners (private study) — the same academic requirements apply. If you do not have GCSEs in maths and English, you can take functional skills qualifications alongside the 2365. Some providers offer initial assessments to determine your starting level.
For Level 3 entry — you must have completed the 2365 Level 2 (or equivalent) before starting Level 3. Some providers may accept relevant prior learning if you can demonstrate equivalent knowledge.

If your maths is rusty, brush up before starting. The electrical science and design units require comfortable working with algebra, fractions, and basic trigonometry. There is no shame in doing a maths refresher course first — it will make the 2365 significantly easier.

08 · Course Guide

Cost of Studying Privately

If you are studying the 2365 outside an employer-funded apprenticeship, you will need to pay course fees. Costs vary significantly by provider, location, and study mode:

ProgrammeIndicative fee

Level 2 (full-time)£1,500 – £3,000

Level 3 (full-time)£2,000 – £4,000

Combined Level 2 + 3 package£3,000 – £6,000

BS 7671 + On-Site Guide (books)~£80

Indicative market guidance only, not a quote. Fees vary by provider, location and study mode; full-time fees usually include tuition, workshop access, materials and exam entries. Budget separately for PPE, hand tools and travel.

Funding options

Advanced Learner Loans are available for adults aged 19 and over studying eligible Level 3 qualifications. Some local authorities offer grants or bursaries for career changers. Check with your chosen college or training provider for the funding available to you.

Compare at least three training providers before committing. Check their pass rates, the quality of their workshops, and what support they offer for students who are struggling. The cheapest course is not always the best value — poor teaching leads to failed exams and resit fees.

09 · Course Guide

City & Guilds 2365 vs 2330: What Changed?

The 2365 replaced the older 2330 (Certificate in Electrotechnical Technology) as the standard knowledge qualification for electrical installations. If you hear older electricians refer to "the 2330", they are talking about the predecessor to the qualification you are studying.

What Stayed the Same

The core content is broadly similar: electrical science, health and safety, installation methods, the Wiring Regulations, and inspection and testing principles. The fundamental knowledge required to be a competent electrician has not changed dramatically — the laws of physics remain the same.

What Changed

The 2365 is aligned with current apprenticeship standards and the latest edition of BS 7671. It places more emphasis on design, inspection and testing, and fault diagnosis at Level 3. The assessment methods are updated — more practical assessments, online exams, and portfolio-style evidence. The unit structure is reorganised to better map to the apprenticeship standard. The 2330 is no longer available for new registrations.

If you have an older 2330 qualification, it is still valid — you do not need to redo the 2365. However, if you are starting fresh or retraining, the 2365 is the current and recommended qualification.

10 · Course Guide

Tips for Success on the 2365

The 2365 is demanding but achievable. Here is how to give yourself the best chance of success:

Attend Every Session

College sessions build on each other. Missing a session means missing content that the next session assumes you know. If you do miss a session, get notes from a classmate and catch up before the next one. Attendance is also tracked and may affect your eligibility to sit exams.

Study Between Sessions

One day a week at college is not enough to absorb the material. Spend 2 to 3 hours per week revising between sessions. Re-read your notes, work through practice questions, and use the electrical science revision guide for the theory topics. Consistent revision beats last-minute cramming every time.

Ask Questions

If you do not understand something, ask. Your tutor is there to teach you. Other students in your class will have the same question — you are not the only one who finds some topics difficult. Electrical design and AC theory are genuinely hard concepts that take time to understand. No one expects you to get them immediately.

The 2365 is the foundation of your career. The knowledge you gain here will support everything you do as an electrician — from sizing cables on a domestic rewire to designing a commercial distribution system. Invest the time and effort now, and it pays dividends for the rest of your working life.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the City & Guilds 2365

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City & Guilds 2365: Electrical Installation Course Guide

What is the City & Guilds 2365?

Key Takeaways

What is City & Guilds 2365?

Get the BS 7671 A4:2026 Cheat Sheet — free

Level 2 vs Level 3: What is the Difference?

Level 2 — Foundation

Level 3 — Advanced

A4:2026 Updates — Exam-Relevant for Level 3

Course Structure

Exam Format

Practical Assessments

How the 2365 Relates to the Apprenticeship

Off-the-job training hours

Practise with unlimited mock exams

Entry Requirements

Cost of Studying Privately

Funding options

City & Guilds 2365 vs 2330: What Changed?

What Stayed the Same

What Changed

Tips for Success on the 2365

Attend Every Session

Study Between Sessions

Ask Questions

City & Guilds 2365 Mock Exams & Revision

Frequently Asked Questions About the City & Guilds 2365

What is the difference between the 2365 and the 2357?

Can I do the 2365 without an apprenticeship?

How long does the 2365 take to complete?

What exams are in the 2365?

Is the 2365 harder than the old 2330?

Do I need the 2365 to become an electrician?

What practical skills do I learn on the 2365?

Continue reading

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