We recommend using the PCS checklist which lists out the competencies and criteria required. Before you start writing your PCS, please use the checklist to make sure you can demonstrate all the criteria and competencies listed. If you can, then you are in a strong position to start writing your PCS. However, during this exercise, if you notice any gaps in your experience, please talk to your line manager and request to work on projects which will enable you to gain more required experience. This checklist can be found under the ‘Other Resources’ section in the Resource Centre for each route: L-APC, EP-APC, DA-APC, A-APC, Associate and Legal Associate.

Yes, we check every APC and Associate applications for evidence of plagiarism and also for signs that parts were written by AI. Candidates are reminded that all submissions should be their own work and make appropriate reference other sources of material (as appropriate). Submissions should be written in the spirit of the Code of Conduct, act with honesty and integrity. All cases of suspected malpractice will be investigated.

Yes, the requirement to submit a Reflective Journal as part of a L-APC or A-APC submission has been temporarily lifted. For more information, please click here.

The RTPI are committed to supporting all candidates as they go through the APC process. If any candidate feel that a reasonable adjustment should be applied to them, please let the Membership Team know before you start work on your written submission. We are happy to discuss your situation and how we can best support you. We are able to make reasonable adjustments to allow candidates to access the assessment. For example, if you are neurodiverse, please declare this on the Personal Details and Payment Form when you submit your APC application.

If you are applying for Associate membership or for Chartered membership through the Experienced Practitioner (EP-APC) route and you do not have a degree, RTPI would consider allowing you to enter through educational background C (non-planning degree) if you have an equivalent qualification. The non-degree qualification would have to be an equivalent qualification to an undergraduate degree as outlined as Level 6 in the National Qualifications Framework. For qualifications gained outside of the UK or Ireland, in some circumstances you may need to consult https://www.enic.org.uk/ in order to be eligible under educational background route c.