Guidance for those studying a CIPD qualification

We’ve compiled the most commonly-asked questions students have about our qualifications, including information on CIPD membership, finding information, exams and work experience. We hope you can find all of the information you are looking for.

My study centre has advised that I need to register my qualification and join as a Student member. What does this mean?

So that we know you’re completing a CIPD qualification, your centre will have provided us with the details of the qualification you’re studying with them, which you’ll need to confirm in order to complete your registration with us.

You’ll have received an email from the CIPD with a link to register as a Student member and confirm your qualification details (if you aren't already a member). Follow this link, and log in using the email address the centre provided when they gave us your qualification details. You’ll then be able to view your qualification details and confirm them (or query them if necessary). You'll also be able to amend any contact details at this time.

If you haven’t received an email with this link, call us on +44 (0) 20 8612 6208.

How do I sign up for the student newsletter?

CIPD student members automatically receive the monthly Student Update newsletter.

How do I access the CIPD website?

You can access a host of resources to help you in your studies and work by setting up a free CIPD website account.

If you don't already have an account you can set one up here.

If you already have a CIPD web account:

• but have forgotten your password, reset your password.
• but have changed (or forgotten) the email address you used, call us on +44 (0)20 8612 6248 so we can resolve the issue.

How do I find a specific resource?

Articles

The People Management website has current and older articles from the magazine.

The Citation Resolver on the CIPD member only EBSCO Discovery Service lets you carry out targeted searches for specific journal articles.

CIPD research reports, guides, factsheets and podcasts

Search the CIPD website for current resources or our HR and L&D Database for older items. 

You can buy CIPD textbooks from Kogan Page. CIPD members get a 20% discount.

Other books and reports

How do I find information on a particular topic?

The Knowledge hub has sections with information on a wide range of topics.

The HR and L&D Database for CIPD members has a short list of popular searches. We've also included search guides to help you out.

The EBSCO Discovery Service contains Research starters on some topics. We've also put together tips and tutorials to help you with your search.

How do I get a book list?

You can produce reading lists from the CIPD HR and L&D Database after you have completed your search. 

On the search results page, tick the boxes at the side of the items you want to save or tick the box at the top of the search results to select all the records on the page. Then click on the Selected Record Action button at the top of the screen. You will be given the option of downloading a Word document, emailing or printing the details of the selected items.

Where can I find templates or examples of forms?

We don't have downloadable forms or templates on our website at the moment.

How do I find information about my exams?

The below is only applicable to those studying the pre 2021 advanced level 7 qualification. If you are studying one of the new CIPD qualifications you will not sit an exam.

How do I register for my exams?

If your qualification involves sitting exams, your study centre will give you the relevant information and exam enrolment forms. To sit an exam, you must be in current CIPD membership.

How do I pay for my exams?

Exams are paid through an Eventbrite link (online payment), if you are due to take an Exam you will be emailed prior to the enrolment date with this link.

When are my exams?

Exams take place in January, May and September each year. Your centre will let you know the exact date of your exam.

How do I get past exam papers?

Past exam papers and examiners' reports are available on our website.

Can I appeal a mark?

Disagreement with the academic/assessment judgement does not constitute valid grounds for appeal.

Can I defer?

Yes, if you’re unable to attend an exam for medical reasons or mitigating circumstances apply, you can defer your enrolment, free of charge to the next exam date only.

When will I receive my qualification certificate?

We check results submissions for accuracy at the verification stage (marked with * on the timeline below); if any discrepancies arise we may return them to your study centre, which may delay the despatch of your certificate.