Professional body qualification
CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice
CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development)
A recognised HR qualification. CIPD membership is not a legal licence to work in HR; some employers ask for it and many do not.
- Awarding body
- CIPD
- Level
- Level 3
- Where it applies
- UK
- Exams
- 4 core units
- Entry
- Study centres set their own entry checks.
- Also required
- Typical duration 8 to 12 months. On completion you can apply for Foundation membership.
- Continuing development
- CIPD members are expected to keep up continuing professional development.
Assessment and registration fees
| Fee | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Course price (CIPD indicative range — varies by study centre, method and location)Set by training providers, not the awarding body | £1,300 to £2,300 | CIPD (opens in a new tab)checked 12 Oct 2026 |
| Assessment fees | Check current fee with CIPD | CIPD (opens in a new tab)checked 12 Oct 2026 |
Membership and subscriptions
| Fee | Amount | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Student membership (1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027) | £118 | CIPD (opens in a new tab)checked 12 Oct 2026 |
| One-off joining fee | £40 | CIPD (opens in a new tab)checked 12 Oct 2026 |
Official page: CIPD (opens in a new tab)Checked 12 Oct 2026