Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of gaining a qualification?
No matter which level or qualification you choose to study, making the decision to enrol in further education will help you progress personally and professionally. By developing new skills and expanding your knowledge, you will boost your employability, increase your earning potential, and significantly enhance your career prospects.
All of our qualifications are fully accredited, regulated by Ofqual, and recognised across the industry, ensuring you gain respected, high-quality credentials.
How do I study the course?
We understand that many learners need the flexibility to study outside of standard working hours. That’s why all of our accredited qualifications are delivered through online and supported distance learning. With 24/7 access to your course via the DLC Learning Hub, you can study at your own pace, from any location, without the need to travel.
I haven’t studied for a long time - how will DLC Training support me?
Deciding to return to studying after a long break is a bold and rewarding step, and it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. No matter how much time has passed, DLC Training will provide you with the necessary support and guidance to ensure you work through your course successfully.
When you enrol with DLC Training, you’ll be assigned a dedicated study support advisor and a subject expert tutor. They’ll be on hand throughout your course to offer guidance, answer questions, and provide encouragement. Whether you’re tackling a challenging topic, working on an assignment, or simply need a bit of reassurance, you’re never on your own with DLC Training.
How do I speak with my tutor?
You can speak with your tutor via telephone, video call, or email, whichever works best for you at the time. A call with your tutor can easily be arranged as and when you require, through the online calendar or with the help of a study support advisor.
How long do I have to complete my course?
The duration of the study support package included with your course depends on the level of qualification you’ve chosen. We recognise that many of our learners balance their studies alongside work and other commitments, which is why our support timelines are designed to accommodate as little as 2–3 hours of study per week.
Thanks to the flexibility of our courses, you can work at your own pace and complete your qualification within a timeframe that suits you. If circumstances arise that may delay your progress, you have the option to place your course on hold or extend your support period for a small fee. Your study support advisor will be happy to discuss your options at any time.
How can I enrol?
Contact a course advisor who will be happy to assist you with your enrolment. You can call 0800 0126 770 to speak with a course advisor today.
How do I sit my exams?
You can sit your exams in a local CIPS exam centre. Find your closest centres here: https://www.cips.org/en-gb/learn/student-zone/find-a-centre/. Your study support advisor will be happy to assist you with booking exams when you’re ready.
For a small additional fee, you can also sit your exams remotely. You can check the requirements for this here: https://www.cips.org/Documents/Remote-invigilation
Exam sessions take place in March, May, July, and November each year.
What study resources do I receive?
You will receive the official CIPS study ebooks for each unit you study. You will also receive access to additional DLC Training resources, including revision guidance, practice questions, and useful resources to guide you in the workplace.
How do I register to take a CIPS exam?
To register for an upcoming exam session, simply contact your study support advisor, who will guide you through the process. Please note that CIPS exam registration opens well in advance of each exam session. To avoid missing the registration deadline, we recommend enrolling on your course at least three months before your intended exam date.
It is essential that you do not book any exams until you have completed your CIPS course enrolment. This ensures you have full access to your study materials, the learning platform, and have had an initial discussion with your tutor to help you feel fully prepared beforehand.
Why do I need CIPS Membership?
An active CIPS membership is required in order to sit the exams that contribute to your overall qualification. In addition to this, CIPS membership also gives you access to a wide range of valuable resources designed to support your development as a procurement professional.
What will the exams look like?
Depending on the level you study, you will need to complete several objective and constructive response exams.
Objective response consists of multiple-choice questions, where you must select the correct answer from several different answers. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass.
Constructive response involves essay-style questions that require you to provide written, structured answers. This type of exam is only required at Level 4 and above. To pass, you must achieve at least 50%. Constructive response exams are graded:
50% – Pass
60% – Merit
75% – Distinction