How the process works

1. 01

   Application

   You apply online, one form per programme, and choose the standards. The form lists the documents you will be asked for; you upload them or link them right after applying, or later when we ask.

2. 02

   Review and assessment

   We check the application is complete and may ask for more information. The evidence is assessed against the standard and the scheme rules.

3. 03

   Independent decision

   The decision is taken on the assessment record by people who did not carry out the assessment.

4. 04

   Certificate and record

   If approved, the certificate is issued with a number and a QR code. Its record shows its status from then on.

• Surveillance

  Where the scheme requires it, surveillance keeps a certificate valid until it expires. A missed surveillance is followed up.

• Suspension

  A certificate is suspended while its holder does not meet a requirement. Its record shows Suspended, and since when. The verification page shows a suspension as soon as it is decided.

• Withdrawal

  A certificate is withdrawn when its holder no longer meets the requirements. Its record shows Withdrawn. The verification page shows a withdrawal as soon as it is decided.

• Expiry and renewal

  A certificate expires on its date. A renewal is a new certificate, and the two records link to each other.

A decision to refuse, suspend or withdraw can be appealed within 30 days of the decision. See complaints and appeals

You can check the status of your application with its number and your email address. If we need more information, we email you a link to reply; the same page lets you ask to withdraw the application.