Thinking about starting CIPD Level 5 but not sure if you meet the requirements? Here's everything you need to know about CIPD Level 5 entry requirements.
Quick Answer: CIPD Level 5 Entry Requirements
There are no strict formal entry requirements for CIPD Level 5. However, to get the most from the course and successfully complete it, the following is recommended:
- CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate OR equivalent HR experience
- Typically 2+ years working in an HR, L&D, or people management role
- Good written communication skills (assessment is through written assignments)
- Basic IT skills for online learning
Unlike a university degree, you don't need specific GCSEs, A-Levels, or a prior degree to enrol.
Official CIPD Entry Requirements
According to CIPD guidelines, the Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management is designed for:
"Professionals who are looking to develop their career in people management and develop the skills to make an impact in their organisation."
CIPD itself doesn't mandate specific entry qualifications. Instead, individual training providers (like VQ Solutions) assess applicants to ensure they're ready for the programme.
What Training Providers Look For
When you apply for CIPD Level 5, we assess your readiness based on:
1. Prior Learning or Experience
You should have either:
- Completed CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate
- OR 2+ years of relevant experience in HR, L&D, or people management
- OR transferable experience from roles involving employee management, recruitment, or similar
2. Written Communication Skills
Since CIPD Level 5 is assessed through written assignments (no exams), you need to be comfortable with:
- Writing at an undergraduate level
- Constructing arguments with evidence
- Academic referencing (we teach you Harvard referencing)
- Clear, professional communication
3. Motivation and Time Commitment
We need to know you can commit to:
- 8-10 hours of study per week
- 12-18 months to complete the programme
- Self-directed online learning
4. Access to a Workplace Context
While not essential, it helps if you:
- Work in an HR or people-related role
- Have access to workplace scenarios for assignments
- Can apply learning in a professional context
Do I Need CIPD Level 3 First?
No, it's not mandatory - but it depends on your background.
Start with Level 3 if you:
- Are completely new to HR with no experience
- Want to build foundational knowledge first
- Are changing careers from an unrelated field
- Prefer to start with a shorter, easier course
Go straight to Level 5 if you:
- Have 2+ years HR/people management experience
- Already work in an HR or L&D role
- Have completed related training or education
- Feel confident with intermediate-level study
VQ Solutions tip: Our Level 3 graduates receive a £200 loyalty discount on Level 5, so starting with Level 3 can be a cost-effective approach while building your confidence.
What Counts as "Relevant Experience"?
You don't need "HR" in your job title. Relevant experience includes:
Direct HR Experience
- HR Administrator or Assistant
- Recruitment roles
- L&D or Training Coordinator
- People/Office Manager handling HR duties
Transferable Experience
- Line manager with people responsibilities
- Team leader handling performance, absence, etc.
- Business owner managing employees
- Administrator dealing with contracts, policies
- Any role involving recruitment, onboarding, or employee relations
Non-Traditional Routes
- Volunteer HR work
- CIPD student membership activities
- HR-related projects in non-HR roles
- Informal HR responsibilities ("accidental HR person")
Age Requirements
You must be over 18 years old to enrol in CIPD Level 5. There is no upper age limit - we regularly have learners in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.
English Language Requirements
CIPD Level 5 requires a good standard of written English. If English isn't your first language, we recommend:
- IELTS 6.0 or equivalent
- Confidence in academic/professional writing
- Ability to understand complex texts
We can provide guidance on English language support if needed.
Educational Background Requirements
You don't need:
- A degree
- Specific GCSEs or A-Levels
- Any previous qualifications
What helps (but isn't required):
- Any level of prior education shows study skills
- Previous assignments or essay writing experience
- Familiarity with academic referencing
How to Check Your Eligibility
Not sure if you meet the requirements? Here's how to find out:
1. Free Eligibility Assessment
Contact VQ Solutions for a free, no-obligation assessment of your eligibility. We'll review your background and recommend the right starting point.
2. Self-Assessment Questions
Ask yourself:
- Have I worked in or around HR for 2+ years?
- Can I write clearly and construct an argument?
- Do I have 8-10 hours per week for study?
- Am I comfortable with online learning?
If you answered "yes" to most of these, you're likely ready for Level 5.
3. Consider Level 3 First
If you're unsure, starting with CIPD Level 3 is never a bad choice. It:
- Has no entry requirements at all
- Builds your HR knowledge foundation
- Develops academic writing skills
- Takes only 6-12 months
- Includes a £200 discount on Level 5
What Happens During Enrolment?
When you apply to VQ Solutions for CIPD Level 5:
- Initial Application - You complete our enrolment form with your background
- Diagnostic Assessment - We check your readiness (literacy, numeracy, study skills)
- Eligibility Confirmation - We confirm you're ready for Level 5
- Payment & Enrolment - Choose your payment plan and get started
- Onboarding - Access the learning platform and meet your tutor
The whole process typically takes 2-5 working days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do CIPD Level 5 with no HR experience?
Yes, it's possible with our comprehensive support system. However, you may need to work harder on contextualising theory into practice for assignments. Consider whether Level 3 might be a better starting point.
What if I don't have Level 3?
That's fine - Level 3 is not a prerequisite if you have relevant experience. We'll assess your background and confirm your eligibility.
Is there an entry exam or test?
No formal exam. We conduct a diagnostic assessment to ensure you're ready for the academic demands of the programme. This is a conversation, not a test you can "fail."
Can I start at any time?
Yes, our online programme allows you to start whenever suits you. There are no fixed term dates - enrol and begin immediately.
What if I'm not sure which level to choose?
Contact us for free advice. We'll discuss your background, career goals, and recommend the best starting point.
Ready to Apply?
If you meet the entry requirements (or think you might), here's what to do next:
- View CIPD Level 5 Course Details - Full information about the programme
- Contact Us for Eligibility Assessment - Free, no-obligation discussion
- Explore CIPD Level 3 - If you want to start with the foundation level
Questions? Call us on 0121 516 6310 or email for personalised guidance.
Entry requirements information is current as of January 2025. VQ Solutions is a CIPD-accredited centre with flexible entry criteria designed to help motivated learners succeed.