The Professional Competence Test is an alternative route to membership for people whose qualifications are not fully accredited by IPI, or who need to demonstrate competence through a recognized evaluation process.
The Test is run in conjunction with the School of Spatial Planning, TU Dublin (TU Dublin).
The Test comprises two parts:
1. Written Project
The applicant submits a proposal for a “written project topic.” Once the topic is approved, the candidate must prepare an essay-style report of about 2,000 words.
The project must:
2. Interview
Comprises two parts:
A. The candidate provides an overview of their prior education/course (with transcripts supplied to the panel in advance)
B. The candidate answers questions about their written project and more broadly about planning — both theory and practice.
Once the topic is approved, the applicant has a maximum of six months to submit the written project.
The Test is typically offered twice a year, in Spring and Autumn.
Once both elements are complete, the panel (via TU Dublin) prepares a report which is submitted to IPI; IPI then informs the candidate of the result.
The fee for the test is €400.
Please note that this is only payable following notification from the Institute to the candidate to undertake the test.
Please email [email protected] if you wish to receive further information on this avenue for membership of the Institute.