Criteria and regulations for accreditation as a training center in ACPM — Registered learning partner

1.1. Experience in the Educational Sector

The learning centre must have been active in the field of professional education and skill enhancement for at least 2 years at the time of the accreditation application. Evidence of this must be provided through registration documents and proof of implemented educational programmes.

1.2. Availability of Educational Infrastructure

For offline or blended learning formats:

The centre must own or have a long-term lease for at least one classroom equipped with:

• Computers (at least 1 per 2 students)
• A multimedia projector or interactive whiteboard
• Stable internet access
• Other necessary equipment for conducting lessons.

For online learning:

The centre must have a modern, functional online platform that provides:

• The ability to conduct live webinars and online courses in real-time
• 24/7 access to learning materials
• The option for feedback and communication between tutors and students
• Protection of users' personal data.

1.3. Contact Information and Transparency

• A valid phone number (landline or mobile) that is accessible to clients during working hours.
• A functional email address that is regularly managed by the centre’s staff.
• An official website with up-to-date information on educational programmes, schedules, terms of study, and licences.
• Active pages on at least two social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn).

1.4. Training Format

The learning centre must provide educational services in one of the following formats:

• Offline
• Online
• Blended

1.5. Qualified Teaching Staff

The centre must have a sufficient number of tutors for all the subjects included in the accreditation framework.

1.6. Requirements for tutors

Each tutor involved in the educational process for accredited programmes must meet the following criteria:

• A higher education degree in the subject area they teach (verified by a diploma).
• A proven practical work experience in the field of their speciality for at least 5 years (e.g., employment record, references, contracts, project portfolios, etc.).

• Mandatory ACPM Certification:

  All tutors at the learning centre must complete training and obtain the corresponding diplomas and certificates from the Association of Certified Professional Managers (ACPM) within 6 months of receiving the Registered Learning Partner status.

  If the centre plans to offer programmes with ACPM diplomas, tutors involved in such programmes must hold valid ACPM diplomas in their respective subjects at the time the course begins.

2.1. Compliance with ACPM Standards

• All educational programmes must be developed in accordance with the methodological and content-related requirements of the Association of Certified Professional Managers (ACPM).

• The programmes should cover all key standards, topics, and competencies outlined by ACPM for the respective course or diploma.

2.2. Completeness and Detailing of Programmes

Educational programmes must be presented in the form of a comprehensive document (syllabus) containing:

• A clearly defined course objective.

• A list of topics and modules with detailed descriptions of the content for each section.

• A description of the expected learning outcomes for students.

• A list of recommended literature and additional resources.

• Information about the teaching methods used (lectures, practical sessions, case studies, group projects, etc.).

2.3. Sufficient Workload

The duration of each programme must ensure thorough learning of the material. The minimum recommended duration is as follows:

• At least 10 academic hours for short-term courses

• At least 40 academic hours for comprehensive certified programmes

The programme must include:

•  A theoretical component.

•  Practical assignments to reinforce knowledge.

•  Independent work for participants with clear instructions.

2.4. Training Format and Organisation

The programme must include the following information:

• The format of the course: offline, online, or blended.

• The total duration of the course (in calendar days/weeks).

• The number of academic hours (1 academic hour = 45 minutes).

• The class schedule (frequency, timetable, intensity).

• Information about the forms of interaction with the tutor (live lectures, webinars, consultations, chat support, etc.).

2.5. Knowledge Assessment System

The programmes must include:

• Interim testing upon completion of key modules.

• At least one mock exam (if the programme leads to a diploma), formatted as closely as possible to the official ACPM exams.

• Clearly defined assessment criteria and rules for eligibility for the final certification.

2.6. Transparency of the Examination Process

• The programmes must include detailed information about the registration process for official ACPM exams:

• Registration procedure (step-by-step instructions or a link to the ACPM resource).

• Application deadlines.

• Exam fees.

• Description of the exam format:

• Type of exam (e.g., test, written work, case study, etc.)

• Number of questions and duration.

• Passing score.

• Conditions for retaking the exam in case of an unsatisfactory result.

2.7. Programme Updates

• The learning centre is required to regularly update the programmes (at least once a year) to ensure they align with changes in ACPM standards and the requirements of the professional environment.

• All updates must be documented, including the date of the latest revision.

2.8. Availability of Information for Students

• Full educational programmes must be accessible to prospective and current students before the start of the course:

• On the official ACPM website and the official website of the learning centre.

• In informational brochures or upon request.

•  Access to demo materials (lectures, handouts) before payment.

• Mandatory provision of the course regulations and exam requirements to students upon registration for the programme.

To obtain the status of Registered Learning Partner, the learning centre must provide a complete set of documents confirming compliance with the established requirements:

3.1. Accreditation Application Form

•  A completed application form in the required format.

•  All sections must be filled out in detail, providing comprehensive information about the centre’s activities, teaching staff, infrastructure, and educational programmes.

3.2. Founding and Registration Documents

• A copy of the learning centre’s charter.

• A copy of the certificate of state registration of the legal entity or individual entrepreneur.

• A current certificate of registration of the legal entity (e.g., an extract from the state registry), dated no more than 3 months before the application submission.

3.3. Teaching Staff

• A list of all tutors involved in the educational programmes, including:

• Full name (FIO)

• Subjects taught

• For each tutor, the following documents must be provided:

• A CV detailing education, work experience, and professional achievements.

• Copies of diplomas (higher education) and professional certifications.

• Recommendation letters from previous employers or partners (if available).

• The tutor's willingness to undergo ACPM certification within the required timeframe (certification plan).

• Any international diplomas held by the tutor.

• Participation in professional events such as round tables, summits, business meetings, etc.

3.4. Educational Materials

Complete educational programmes for all declared courses, formatted in accordance with ACPM requirements.

3.5. Legal Documentation

• A template of the current training agreement or public offer (for online sales), including all terms of service for the provision of educational services.

• A privacy policy and consent form for personal data processing in compliance with legal requirements (e.g., GDPR, if applicable).

• A copy of the educational activity license, if required by the legislation of the country where the learning centre is registered.

• Proof of reputation and status, including a list of all current accreditations, licenses, and partnerships, with supporting documents (certificates, letters, agreements, etc.).

The learning centre must ensure appropriate technical resources for conducting training in the declared formats:

4.1. For Online Learning:

4.1.1. A modern online platform:

• Availability of an active LMS or other platform designed for conducting online courses and webinars.

• Provide screenshots, demo access, or video presentations confirming the platform’s functionality:

  • Ability to upload learning materials.

  • Interactive elements (tests, chats, forums).

  • Tracking attendance and student progress.

  • Integration with video conferencing services (Zoom, MS Teams, etc.).

4.1.2. Technical Requirements for Students

Clearly defined minimum requirements for student equipment and software, such as:

– A PC/laptop with an up-to-date operating system.

– A stable internet connection (minimum speed of 10 Mbps).

– A webcam and microphone (if required for the course).

– Installed browsers or additional applications.

4.1.3. Policy for Technical Failures

The outlined procedure for handling technical issues:

• The process for notifying students.

• The possibility of rescheduling classes or extending access deadlines.

•  Guarantees for preserving learning progress.

4.2. For Offline (In-person) Learning:

4.2.1. Material and Technical Infrastructure

Equipped classrooms:

• Computers or laptops for students (if required by the programme).

• Projectors, interactive whiteboards, or screens.

•  Handouts (printed or electronic).

• Equipment for comfortable learning (furniture, lighting, ventilation).

4.2.2. Backup Equipment

Availability of backup technical resources in case of equipment failure (e.g., spare projectors or laptops).

A learning centre applying for the status of Registered Learning Partner must organise the learning process in accordance with high-quality standards, ensuring transparency, support, and effective learning.

5.1. Provision of a Student Handbook

Each student must receive a detailed handbook before the start of the course, which includes:

• The course structure, broken down into modules and topics.

• A description of the objectives and expected outcomes for each module.

• The training schedule (module opening dates, assignment deadlines).

• A list of required and additional materials.

• Instructions for using the platform or participation rules for offline classes.

• The procedure for taking tests and exams.

• Contact information for responsible personnel.

5.2. Regulations for Interaction Between Tutors and Students

Clearly defined communication rules:

• Communication channels: email, internal platform messages, messengers (if allowed by the centre’s policy).

• Response time for tutors to student inquiries — no more than 24 hours on working days.

• The possibility of scheduling individual consultations (online or offline).

• Regulations for interaction on weekends and holidays.

5.3. Monitoring Student Progress

The learning platform administrator or assigned curator must:

• Monitor attendance, assignment completion, and adherence to the schedule.

• Provide regular progress reports on students (at least once a month for long-term programmes).

• Promptly inform students about falling behind the schedule or incomplete assignments.

• Maintain an archive of learning activities for internal quality control.

5.4. Possibility for Student Interaction

• Availability of a platform or channel for student interaction (forum, chat group, Slack, Discord, etc.).

•  Established moderation policy:

• Prohibition of inappropriate behaviour, advertising, and spam.

• Appointment of a moderator (curator) to monitor compliance with community rules.

• Procedures for addressing violations (warning, blocking access to the chat).

5.5. Knowledge Assessment Formats

Programmes must include a multi-level system for assessing knowledge:

• Interim tests after each module.

• Practical assignments based on real cases or situations simulating professional activities.

• Completion of mini-projects or analytical tasks (if provided by the subject).

• Established assessment criteria with a transparent point system.

5.6. Mock Exams (If the Course or Programme Includes a Final Exam for Certification or Diploma)

The mandatory conduct of at least one mock exam:

• In a format as closely aligned as possible with the official ACPM exam.

• With a fixed duration and conditions that simulate real exam conditions.

• The possibility of organising it both offline and online (using proctoring or screen recording if necessary).

• Providing detailed feedback to the student on the mock exam results, including recommendations for improvement.

The learning centre applying for the status of Registered Learning Partner must demonstrate a systematic approach to ensuring and continuously improving the quality of educational services.

6.1. Implementation of a Quality Management System

• The learning centre must have developed and approved regulations and procedures covering key aspects of the learning process (course organisation, knowledge assessment, student inquiries management, etc.).

• Regular internal quality audits (at least once every six months), with corrective action plans documented.

• Systematic collection of feedback from students and instructors:

  • Surveys are conducted after each course.

  • Evaluation of tutor performance.

  • Analysis of feedback for continuous improvement of programmes and services.

6.2. Teacher Professional Development Programme

• The availability of an internal or external programme for the development of the teaching staff:

  • Regular participation in training sessions, webinars, and conferences.

  • Mastery of new teaching methods and digital tools.

  • Mandatory participation in an annual professional development course (at least 20 hours per year).

  • Mandatory possession of ACPM diplomas and certificates.

• Maintaining a professional development plan for each instructor.

6.3. Use of Modern Educational Technologies

• Active implementation of EdTech solutions in the learning process:

  • Use of adaptive learning platforms.

  • Interactive tools for student engagement (quizzes, simulations, case studies).

• Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) elements for personalising learning and automating routine processes (e.g., test grading, progress analysis).

• Application of gamification to enhance student motivation (points systems, rankings, achievements).

The learning centre must demonstrate an active position within the professional community and show commitment to the principles of social responsibility.

7.1. Partnerships and Collaboration

•  The learning centre must have active cooperation agreements with:

  • International and national professional associations.

  • Leading higher education institutions.

  • Other accredited learning centres and organisations working in the field of education and professional development.

• Provide supporting documents or links to official resources.

7.2. Participation in Social and Educational Initiatives

• Implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, such as:

• Organisation or partnership in career guidance events, open lectures, webinars for a wide audience.

7.3. Public Reputation

• Positive mentions of the learning centre’s activities on external resources (media, partner websites, forums).

• Maintaining an active expert image on social media and within professional communities.

The learning centre applying for the status of Registered Learning Partner must ensure a high level of data protection and comply with modern cybersecurity standards.

8.1. Documented Cybersecurity Policy

The presence of an officially approved Information Security Policy, which includes:

• Rules for access to data for staff and students.

• Procedures for preventing and responding to cyber threats.

• Regulations for software updates and protection against viruses and malware.

• Procedures for dealing with data breaches or data loss.

• Staff awareness of the policy and regular training sessions.

The learning centre must ensure honest and transparent financial conditions for its students and partners.

9.1. Transparent Payment and Refund Conditions

• Publication of full course pricing on the official website or in contracts/offerings.

• Clear indication of the cost of each course or module.

• The possibility of installment payments (if provided by the terms of the course).

• No hidden fees or additional charges without prior client notification.

• A clearly defined refund policy, including:

  • Conditions and timeframes for refunds if a student withdraws.

  • The procedure for submitting a refund request.

  • A guaranteed refund if the course is cancelled by the learning centre.

9.2. Guarantees for Students

• Provision of additional services that confirm the centre’s commitment to the quality of education: 

  • Re-access to the course or individual modules in case of unsatisfactory results or justified difficulties in mastering the material.

  • The possibility of free re-taking of the mock exam.

  • Offering individual consultations in challenging cases.

• Public commitments to maintaining high standards of service and educational quality.

10.1. Accreditation Validity

• The accreditation of the learning centre as a Registered Learning Partner is granted for a period of 1 year from the date of the accreditation decision.

• At the end of this period, mandatory re-accreditation will take place, during which the learning centre’s compliance with all current ACPM criteria and standards will be re-evaluated.

• The learning centre is required to submit the necessary documents for accreditation renewal no later than 30 calendar days before the expiration of the current period.

10.2. Membership Fee

To maintain the status of an accredited partner, the learning centre pays an annual membership fee.

The Membership Fee is £120 per year.

The payment is due within 7 calendar days from the confirmation of compliance with ACPM standards. Late payment may result in the suspension of the accreditation status.

What is included in the membership fee

As part of the annual membership fee, the learning centre receives the following privileges and services:

• Inclusion of one course in the official list of accredited ACPM programmes, with publication on the website and promotional materials.
  Note: For 2 or more courses, there is an additional fee of £65 per course.

• Creation of a promotional video about the learning centre.
  ACPM specialists will develop the promo video using materials provided by the learning centre (photos, videos, logo).

• Promotion of the learning centre:

  • Publication of the accreditation news on the official ACPM website.

  • Placement of an article about the centre in the partners section.

  • Publication of the promotional video on official ACPM social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram) and the ACPM YouTube channel.

• Promotion of accredited programmes:
  Placement and promotion of promotional videos for each accredited programme on social media and YouTube.
  Note: Videos must be provided by the learning centre in MP4 format and with a duration of up to 60 seconds for YouTube Shorts and up to 3 minutes for Instagram Reels.

• Placement of contact information:

  • Posting full contact details (address, phone, email, website, social media) on the official ACPM website in the partners section.

  • Organisation of direct student registration for courses and programmes via the ACPM website, with automatic email notifications sent to the centre about new applications.

• Promotion of courses and programmes among the ACPM audience:
  Informational support and promotion of the learning centre’s programmes among ACPM students and partners.

• Placement of an expert profile for the learning centre:

  • One representative from the centre (an expert with confirmed practical experience in the field of accreditation) will be listed on the ACPM website.

  • The profile includes a photograph, detailed professional background, and description of competencies and achievements.

  • The expert receives the ACPM expert status for the relevant field and is included in the professional register.

Upon completion of the accredited programmes at the learning centre, students receive official documents confirming the completion of the course and the competencies acquired.

11.1. Issuance of Certificates and Diplomas

 All students who successfully complete the training and pass the final assessment (exam, testing, or final project) receive an official ACPM certificate or diploma.
The type of document issued depends on the level, outcome, and duration of the programme:

• Certificate of Attendance — issued upon completion of short-term courses and training, confirming participation.

• Certificate — issued for short-term courses and training, confirming participation, successful completion of testing, and the acquisition of specific knowledge and skills.

• Diploma — issued upon completion of comprehensive certification programmes in the relevant field.

11.2. Requirements for Receiving a Certificate/Diploma

To receive the official document, a student must:

• Complete the entire course and complete all mandatory assignments.

• Successfully pass the final assessment with a result not lower than the established passing score (the passing score is determined individually for each programme).

• Pay the annual membership fee for the student once per year.

11.3. Format and Design of Documents

• All certificates and diplomas are designed according to ACPM standards, featuring a unique registration number, Blockchain-ID, issue date, and the signature of an authorised representative of the Association, as well as the signature and seal of the learning centre (for certificates).

• Documents may be issued in two formats:

  • Electronic format (PDF) — with the ability to verify authenticity through the official online ACPM registry.

  • Printed format — available upon request by the student or learning centre, with subsequent delivery.

11.4. Blockchain Registration and ACPM Registry

All issued certificates and diplomas are recorded in the Blockchain system and professional ACPM registries, allowing employers, partners, and other interested parties to verify the authenticity of the document online.

11.5. Additional Opportunities for Graduates

• Graduates of accredited programmes are granted the right to use the ACPM Certified badge in their professional profiles (e.g., on LinkedIn, resumes, and portfolios).

• The opportunity to participate in professional events, forums, and conferences organised by ACPM.

• Access to special offers and programmes for graduates (e.g., discounts on further education or participation in exclusive specialist clubs).