Level cap increase with HW?

[Lexia]

I had a similar question, do you actually have to have Heavensward in order to increase in level? Or will ARR also get to level to 60? I only ask because since the content is gated by story and I am so far behind there was no reason to rush out and buy HW yet, not to mention my birthday is the 25 hint hint.. hoping to just get it then anyways.

level cap increase is part of the expansion