Chartered status and upgrading

Chartered status - what does it mean?

Chartered status represents the highest level of recognition in the people profession. It signifies your expertise, strategic insight, and the real-world impact you've made in driving organisational success and advancing the profession.

What does it mean to be a Chartered Member?

• Strategic capability: The ability to align people practices with business goals.
• Credibility: Recognition as a trusted expert in the people profession.
• Career growth: Enhanced opportunities to lead change and influence at higher levels.

What does it mean to be a Chartered Fellow?

• Exceptional leadership: Proven ability to lead transformational change.
• Profound impact: Demonstrated influence at the highest levels of the profession.
• Role model: Recognition as an industry thought leader and role model.

How do I achieve Chartered status?

If you’re new to the CIPD:

Explore our routes to membership.

If you’re an existing CIPD member:

You may be eligible for one of two options, depending on your current membership level and qualification you hold. 

1. Upgrade Assessment

If you're currently one of the following:

• A Chartered Member
• An Associate Member who holds a CIPD Advanced Diploma
• An accredited postgraduate/ masters degree holder from a CIPD recognised university.

You could take our Upgrade assessment route. It involves a one hour online professional discussion or completing a written form, depending on your level and choice. 

Use the Upgrade readiness checker below to see if you're ready to upgrade your membership to Chartered Member or Chartered Fellow.

2. Experience Assessment

If you're currently one of the following:

• A Foundation Member
• an Associate Member who does not hold a CIPD Advanced Diploma or an accredited post-graduate/masters degree from a CIPD recognised university.

You could take the Experience Assessment route. It takes around three months, and consists of a series of online assessments and a professional discussion.