The European Commission has released DigComp 3.0, the most updated version of the EU’s Digital Competence Framework, marking a significant step toward strengthening digital skills across education, employment, and society.
DigComp 3.0 integrates recent and emerging technological trends, including artificial intelligence, while preserving the stability and technology-neutral design that have defined the framework since its inception. The update includes newly developed learning outcomes, revised proficiency levels, refreshed wording across competence areas, and an expanded glossary to ensure clarity and ease of use.
Although the overall structure remains unchanged, DigComp 3.0 introduces a transversal integration of AI-related competence across all 21 digital competences and five thematic areas:
- Information search, evaluation and management
- Communication and collaboration
- Content creation
- Safety, wellbeing and responsible use
- Problem identification and solving
The update was shaped by input from more than 300 individuals and organisations across Europe and beyond. Development focused on two major dimensions: the content of digital competence and the application of the framework within education, training, and workforce systems.
Priority content themes included AI and generative AI competence, cybersecurity, digital rights and responsibilities, digital wellbeing, and the ability to counter misinformation and disinformation.
On the application side, themes emphasised lifelong learning, recognition of prerequisites for developing basic digital skills, diverse competence needs among individuals, and the need for flexible uses of the framework.
Responding to user demand, the Commission has introduced new learning outcomes that detail what individuals should know, understand, and be able to do. These are organised by competence, proficiency level, and the categories of knowledge, skills, and attitudes. They are available in both spreadsheet and linked open data formats to support use in curriculum development, skills validation, and employment profiling.
Recognising the rapid expansion of AI in everyday tools and systems, DigComp 3.0 embeds AI knowledge, skills, and attitudes across all competences. The framework emphasises not only understanding how AI works and where it is used but also the rights, responsibilities, and ethical considerations involved in interacting with AI systems.
DigComp 3.0 is now available for download, offering policymakers, educators, employers, and citizens an updated and comprehensive roadmap for building confident, critical, and responsible digital engagement in an AI-driven world.
