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Certificates FAQ's

IRM Taxonomy 1-2-1

Thanks for checking our FAQ page – for the sake of efficiency, we will refer to the International Certificate and Certificate programmes as the Certificates.

We might also use some abbreviations where needed:

  • ERM refers to the International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management
  • FS refers to the International Certificate in Financial Services Risk Management
  • DRM refers to the Certificate in Digital Risk Management
  • SUPP refers to the Certificate in Supply Chain Risk Management

What are the entry requirements?

There are no entry requirements for our Certificates.

If English is not your first language, we recommend you have an Academic IELTS score of 6.0 (with no element less than 5.5) or equivalent evidence of competence in the English language before beginning your studies.

How can I enrol?

You can enrol online via www.theirm.org/qualifications

When do the exams take place?

There are only two enrolment periods each year, with the corresponding assessment sessions:

Enrolment Period Assessments Session
1 July – 31 December June (following year)
1 February – 31 May November / December (same year)

No enrolments will be accepted after the enrolment deadline

Can the modules be split across different assessment sessions?

The Certificates in DRM and SUPP consist of only one module.

For the International Certificates in ERM and FS, which consists of two modules, you must complete the assessments for both modules in the same session.

For example, you cannot sit one module in June and the following module in November.

What does the course fee cover?

Once successfully enrolled and payment has been made you will gain access to the following:

  • Our online virtual learning environment (moodle) – with activities and quizzes 
  • Unit guides and essential readings
  • Discussion forum
  • Module coaches
  • Supportive webinars and videos
  • Sample multiple-choice-question (MCQ) exam
  • Online resource centre
  • Dedicated Student Support Team
  • IRM Student Membership
  • Special Interest and Regional Groups – a great networking opportunity
  • Discounts on training courses and other IRM products

Do I get a student membership?

When you enrol on any of the Certificates you will automatically be registered as a student member of the IRM for the duration of the qualification, or until you complete the certificate - whichever comes first.

(This doesn’t apply if you are already a member of the IRM in a higher membership grade).

Are the textbooks included in the fee?

You will need to purchase the books separately. A list of the required textbooks will be forwarded to you via email upon enrolment and payment confirmation.

What support is given to students who need clarity on topics?

Once you gain access to moodle, you can track your progression using our activities and quizzes, and reach out to your module coach for additional support. All coaches are experienced, risk practitioners.

We also offer a blended learning option for students who prefer a more interactive learning experience. This is only available for the International Certificate programmes.

These student-centred workshops will reinforce your understanding of the material and help you develop the practical skills needed to put your learning into practice. 

What is the expected amount of study required?

An indicative study time for the certificates is between 180 and 200 hours per module.

When will I receive access to my study materials?

You will receive access to your study materials once the enrolment is complete – that means after you have paid the course fees.

How do I pay and complete my enrolment?

There are two different payment options:

  • BACS / Bank Transfer
  • Debit / Credit Card

If you are being sponsored by your organisation or employer, any purchase order details can be left blank if there isn’t one yet. Purchase order details can be added to the invoice at a later stage.

Discounted rates

Discounted rates are available for groups of 10 or more employees enrolling for the same session from the same organisation.

Current IRM Members must log in to take advantage of discounted rates.

Please contact Business Development Manager Joanna Kraska at joanna.kraska@theirm.org for further details.

How long does it take to complete the qualification?

There are two enrolment periods each year, and students should consider the time commitment for study before enroling on the courses. 

You can complete the Certificates within 6-9 months, and the study time available will depend on when you confirm your enrolment.

If you enrol later in the enrolment period, you will need to consider the amount of time remaining to study for the scheduled assessment session. 

Is there a time limit in which to complete the qualification?

You have a maximum of two years to complete the Certificate and must do so within 3 consecutive sessions.

(e.g. If you enrol for the June session, then you have the following December & June sessions or if you enrol for the December session, then you have the following June & December sessions).

The first attempt is included with your enrolment fee. Any subsequent attempts will be considered a re-sit and you will be required to pay the re-sit fee for each attempt.

After this point, you will be required to re-enrol and pay a further enrolment fee.

Where do the exams take place?

MCQ exams are computer-based, and you must take them at Pearson VUE examination centers. Pearson Vue has an  extensive test centre network across the world.

Can I defer my exams once I have enrolled and paid for my course?

We do not offer deferrals as such on examinations or assignment submissions.

What happens if I failed one of the modules, or missed the exam?

If you fail or are not able to sit your scheduled exam(s) for any reason, you can decide not to attend the exam(s) and will be marked as absent.

Likewise, if you fail to submit your assignment(s) by the set submission date, you will be marked as absent.

An absent mark will use up one of the three attempts for each exam and or assignment, but you will not be penalised at all in terms of marks or grading for sitting your exam or submitting your assignment at the next available session.

You will, however, be charged a re-sit fee of £175 (per exam) to enter you for your next exam(s) or for any future re-sits of the missed exam(s).

A fee of £100 (per assignment) will be charged for your re-submission(s).

What happens once I complete my course?

Successful completion of the International Certificates in ERM and FS will mean that you become a Certificate Member (IRMCert) and are able to progress on to the International Diploma in Risk Management; this is the first step of the journey to becoming a Certified Member of the IRM (CMIRM).

The Certificates in DRM and SUPP are standalone and specialist qualifications.