CIPD Level 5 cost

February 17, 2025

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The total cost of a CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma varies significantly based on the learning provider, study method (online vs. classroom), and additional mandatory fees.

1. Course Provider Costs

Provider	Estimated Total Cost (inc. VAT)	Key Features
Avado	£3,595 – £3,599	Premium online delivery, 100% digital.
ICS Learn	£3,300 – £4,000	Flexible online study, monthly payment options.
DPG	£2,290 – £2,899	Blended and online options, frequent discounts.
Reed Learning	£1,899 – £4,500	Range from online fast-track to residential courses.
MOL Learn	£2,520 – £3,780	Monthly payments starting from £210.
VQ Solutions	£2,160 – £2,280	Competitively priced online delivery.
Local Colleges/Unis	£1,700 – £2,500	Often the most affordable for classroom-based study.

2. Mandatory CIPD Fees (2026)

These fees are paid directly to the CIPD and are usually not included in the provider’s course fee.

Fee Type	Amount	Frequency
Joining Fee	£40	One-off administrative charge.
Student Membership	£57 (6 months) / £170 (18 months)	Required while studying.
Registration Fee	~£147	One-off fee for some assessment routes.
Associate Upgrade	£96 (6 months) / £287 (18 months)	Annual fee after qualification.

3. Total Estimated Investment

Low-end (College/Online Sale): ~£1,900 (Course) + £210 (Fees) = £2,110

Mid-range (DPG/MOL): ~£2,800 (Course) + £210 (Fees) = £3,010

High-end (Avado/ICS Premium): ~£3,800 (Course) + £210 (Fees) = £4,010

4. Funding Options

Employer Sponsorship: Many HR professionals have their fees paid by their employer.

Apprenticeships: Level 5 HR Consultant/Partner apprenticeships are funded via the Apprenticeship Levy.

Payment Plans: Most private providers offer interest-free monthly installments.