Q. How do I apply for recognition of prior learning?
Q. Why do I need to complete an application? I have already sent an email enquiry.
Q. How long does it take for the recognition of prior learning process to be completed?
Q. How does CII reach an award decision?
Q. I have been awarded recognition of prior learning. What do I do next?
Q. I need to know the review outcome quicker than your expected timeframe as I have to book other CII units. What should I do? 

 Q. How do I apply for recognition of prior learning?

A. Please see The Application Process for details of how to apply for CII recognition of prior learning.

Q. Why do I need to complete an application? I have already sent an email enquiry.

A. The application has been designed to ensure we have sufficient information to complete the review. Many emails do not provide enough information for us to make a definitive response or provide full details of next steps. It is important that you sign up to the terms and conditions when applying. The application provides evidence of this. Please help us to respond promptly to you and other applicants by making a formal application rather than sending an email.

Q. How long does it take for the recognition of prior learning process to be completed?

A. If the qualification has recently been reviewed, you will usually receive a response in around fifteen working days from receipt of your application. When we are experiencing high volumes of applications, this may take longer - if this is the case we will inform you of our current response times. 

The complexity of some applications may also alter the time for completion, for example, if we require additional information from you. In this case, we will update you on progress within six to eight weeks.

Q. How does CII reach an award decision?

A. We use subject experts, who also have extensive knowledge of the CII qualifications framework, to carry out mapping exercises to identify the match to CII qualifications - both the learning outcomes and the assessment. Our quality assurance process ensures consistency in their approach to this. For some qualifications we use standard processes and benchmarking.

Q. I have been awarded recognition of prior learning. What do I do next?

A. You will be able to view your prior learning award on your CII learning statement. For more details please contact CII Customer Service on 020 8989 8464 (+44 20 8989 8464 from outside the United Kingdom), by email on customer.serv@cii.co.uk or web chat via ciigroup.org

Q. I need to know the review outcome quicker than your expected timeframe as I have to book other CII units. What should I do?

A. We recommend that you compare the learning outcomes of your qualification with those of the CII unit(s) which you hope to be awarded. It is only where there is a full match that you may be awarded the unit. We can only make awards once a rigorous review of the learning outcomes and assessment has taken place. We aim to complete reviews as soon as possible whilst ensuring they are rigorous and fair. You may wish to consider registering for other units until the review is complete. If you are awarded a unit that you also have an exam entry for, we will not refund your enrolment / assessment fee but you will be able to decide whether to claim the credits for either recognition of prior learning or successful CII unit completion.