Part One
Eligibility Framework
Entry requirements, eligibility criteria, and verification standards for all five levels of the CILG qualification framework — calibrated to the professional development stage each level represents.
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1.1 Philosophy of Eligibility
CILG's eligibility framework is professionally inclusive and educationally progressive. It does not restrict entry to candidates from particular academic backgrounds or geographic locations — leadership and governance competence can be developed through multiple pathways. At the same time, each qualification level requires demonstrated readiness appropriate to that stage of professional development, ensuring the standard and integrity of every CILG designation.
Unlike academic programmes which assess intellectual capacity at a point in time, CILG's eligibility criteria assess a candidate's readiness to engage with professionally oriented learning and to apply that learning in real organisational contexts. This is consistent with the eligibility models adopted by leading international professional bodies across accountancy, human resources, governance, and corporate leadership.
1.2 Universal Eligibility Principles
The following principles apply to every level and every mode of entry:
Minimum Age
All applicants must be a minimum of 18 years of age at date of registration. No upper age limit applies at any level.
Proof of Identity
Government-issued photo identification (passport, national ID, or driving licence) is mandatory for all levels without exception.
English Proficiency
All materials, examinations, and assessments are in English. Where English is not the first language, a minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent is required.
Registration and Fees
All candidates must complete the CILG registration process and pay applicable fees before commencing any level of study.
Conduct Declaration
Disclosure of any criminal conviction involving dishonesty or serious professional misconduct is mandatory. CILG reserves the right to refuse registration in such circumstances.
Code Compliance
All registered candidates are bound by the CILG Code of Professional Conduct from the date of first registration at any level.
1.3 Level-by-Level Eligibility Requirements
| Criterion | Minimum Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | High school diploma, GED, A-levels, or equivalent national secondary leaving certificate | International equivalents assessed against US secondary standard via internationally recognised credential evaluation services |
| Professional Experience | None formally required | Any employment history is welcomed as evidence of professional readiness but is not mandatory |
| English Proficiency | Sufficient to engage with written materials and examinations | IELTS 6.0 or equivalent where English is not the first language. Completion of secondary education in English satisfies this requirement |
| Alternative Route B | Minimum 3 years of verifiable work experience + personal statement + professional referee | For candidates without a formal secondary qualification. Subject to approval by the CILG Admissions Committee |
| Membership | Enrolled as CILG Student Member on registration | Student Membership enrollment fee: USD 50 |
| Criterion | Minimum Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Prerequisite | Completion of CILG Level 1 Foundation Certificate OR approved Level 1 exemption | CILG transcript or exemption confirmation letter required. Applications without verified Level 1 completion will not be processed |
| Professional Experience | Not formally required — one year of relevant employment strongly recommended | Professional context enriches engagement with Level 2 case-based content |
| Academic Direct Entry | Recognised undergraduate degree or higher professional qualification in a relevant field | Subject to Level 1 exemption application. Relevant fields: business, management, law, public admin, finance, HR, governance |
| Membership | CILG Student Member in good standing | Must be current for each module registration |
| Criterion | Minimum Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Prerequisite | Completion of CILG Level 2 Certificate (full) OR approved Level 2 exemption | Partial Level 2 completion is not sufficient. All 5 modules must be credited before Level 3 registration |
| Professional Experience | Minimum two (2) years of relevant professional experience in leadership, management, governance, compliance, or organisational administration | Verified by employer or professional referee. Self-employment accepted with client verification. Voluntary roles count if they involve substantive governance responsibility |
| Professional Experience Summary | 500–700-word Professional Experience Summary describing current role and professional context | Submitted at Level 3 registration. Assessed for professional relevance, not as an examination |
| Membership | CILG Affiliate Member (AffCILG) or evidence of application for Affiliate Membership | Affiliate Membership must be confirmed before first Level 3 module examination is sat |
| CPD | Minimum 20 CPD hours completed and recorded during period of Affiliate Membership | CPD return must be submitted and accepted before Level 3 registration is confirmed |
| Criterion | Minimum Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Prerequisite | Completion of CILG Level 3 Diploma AND current Associate Membership (ACILG) | Both conditions must be simultaneously met. Membership must be in good standing with no outstanding disciplinary matters |
| Total Professional Experience | Minimum five (5) years of relevant professional experience in total | Must demonstrate progressive career development and increasing levels of responsibility across the five years |
| Senior-Level Experience | Minimum three (3) years in a senior leadership, governance, executive management, or board advisory role | Senior roles include: Director, Head of Department, VP, C-suite, Board Member, Trustee, Senior Governance Advisor, Partner, or equivalent. Evidence of role scope required |
| Professional Portfolio | 1,000-word Professional Portfolio Summary demonstrating senior-level professional context and readiness for advanced study | Assessed by the CILG Level 4 Admissions Panel. Must demonstrate strategic scope and governance or leadership responsibility |
| Professional Mentoring Review | Completion of a CILG Professional Mentoring Review with an approved CILG Mentor (MCILG/FCILG) before the first Level 4 module examination | Two structured sessions over a minimum four-week period. Arranged through CILG Membership Services |
| CPD Compliance | Full CPD compliance for the preceding two (2) years as an Associate Member: minimum 30 hours per year | CPD portfolios for both years must be submitted and accepted before Level 4 registration is confirmed |
| Criterion | Minimum Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification Prerequisite | Completion of CILG Level 4 Advanced Diploma AND current Full Membership (MCILG) for minimum two (2) years | Both conditions must be met. Membership must be fully compliant and in good standing |
| Total Professional Experience | Minimum eight (8) years of relevant professional experience | Cumulative, verified professional practice demonstrating sustained career development |
| Executive-Level Experience | Minimum five (5) years in C-suite, board, executive, or principal governance role | Material leadership and governance responsibility at the highest organisational levels. Evidence of role scope and organisational impact required |
| Contribution to Profession | Minimum three (3) substantive professional contributions: publications, board service, policy work, speaking engagements, mentoring, or equivalent | Documented in the Level 5 Entry Portfolio. Quality and impact of contributions assessed, not only quantity |
| Level 5 Entry Portfolio | 3,000–5,000-word comprehensive Entry Portfolio demonstrating career achievements, professional contribution, and readiness for Chartered status | Reviewed by a panel of three (3) FCILG Fellows as part of the Professional Entry Interview |
| Professional Entry Interview | Successful completion of the CILG Professional Entry Interview — conducted by a panel of three (3) FCILG Fellows (60–90 minutes) | Minimum two of three panel members must recommend a 'pass' outcome. Assesses professional standing, contribution, and suitability for Fellowship |
| Fellow Endorsement | Formal endorsement by two (2) existing FCILG Fellows | Fellows may not be the candidate's direct employer or family member |
| CPD Compliance | Full CPD compliance for the preceding three (3) years as a Full Member: minimum 40 hours per year with full portfolio documentation | All three annual CPD portfolios must be submitted and formally accepted |
| Mentoring Evidence | Evidence of active mentoring of at least one ACILG or MCILG member over a minimum 12-month structured programme | Mentoring log and reflective statement required. Demonstrates stewardship of the profession |
⚠ Reasonable Adjustments — All Levels
- Extended examination time (25% standard; 50% for exceptional circumstances)
- Rest breaks during examinations (time does not count against the candidate)
- Large print, screen-reader compatible, and accessible digital formats
- Private examination room; amanuensis (scribe) or transcription support
- Oral examination as an alternative to written, where professionally appropriate
- Flexible submission deadlines for coursework and portfolio assessments
- Applications to: accessibility@cilg.org at least 8 weeks before the relevant examination
Part Two
Grading Framework
A competency-referenced grading scale aligned to international professional bodies' standards. Grades reflect the standard of professional competence demonstrated — not relative performance against other candidates.
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2.1 Philosophy of Grading
CILG's grading framework reflects the professional, rather than academic, nature of its qualifications. The grading system is competency-referenced — grades measure performance against defined professional learning outcomes, not against the average performance of the candidate cohort. A candidate who demonstrates Distinction-level competence receives a Distinction regardless of how their peers performed.
This is consistent with the grading philosophy adopted by leading international professional examination bodies across accountancy, human resources, and corporate governance. Grades are awarded at the module level and recorded individually on the official CILG transcript.
2.2 The CILG Grading Scale
Distinction
Exceptional
80–100%
Professional Descriptor
Exceptional professional mastery. Comprehensive, insightful, and independently applied command of all module learning outcomes. Analysis is sophisticated, evidence-based, and reflects the judgment of a highly competent senior practitioner. Demonstrates thought leadership beyond the minimum standard.
Recorded on official transcript and certificate. Eligible for CILG Level Excellence Award where achieved across all five modules at a level. Carries significant weight in Fellowship applications.
Merit
High Competence
70–79%
Professional Descriptor
High professional competence. Thorough, well-applied knowledge across all module learning outcomes with minimal gaps. Analysis is sound, professionally oriented, and shows clear evidence of practical application across most competency areas.
Recorded on transcript. Reflects strong professional capability and carries positive weight in membership upgrade applications and employer recognition.
Pass
Competent
50–69%
Professional Descriptor
Satisfactory professional competence. The candidate has demonstrated sufficient knowledge and application of the module learning outcomes to meet the required professional standard. Some areas may be less developed but no critical gaps are present.
Minimum passing standard. Full module credit awarded. The candidate may progress to the next module or level. Pass is a creditable professional outcome.
Referred
Near-Pass
45–49%
Professional Descriptor
Near-pass. The candidate has demonstrated partial competence but has not fully met the required standard. Specific components of the module's learning outcomes have not been adequately addressed. Not recorded on the external transcript.
May re-sit specific components only (not the full paper). Re-sit window: 60 days. One component re-sit permitted per Referred result.
Fail
Insufficient
Below 45%
Professional Descriptor
Insufficient professional competence. Significant gaps in knowledge, application, or professional judgment across the module's learning outcomes. The candidate has not met the minimum standard required. Not recorded on the external transcript.
Must re-sit the full module examination. Maximum three (3) attempts in total. After three fails, formal re-application required with a minimum 6-month waiting period.
2.3 Grade Boundary Review Protocol
Grade boundaries are fixed at the thresholds above. The Pass/Refer boundary is subject to a standard-setting protocol following each examination session, consistent with practices used by leading international professional examination bodies:
Grade Boundary Adjustment Protocol
- After each session, the Chief Examiner reviews all scripts scoring 43–52%
- Where statistical evidence shows the paper materially deviated from the established standard, a boundary adjustment of up to ±3 percentage points may be recommended
- Any proposed adjustment must be approved by the CILG Examinations Board before results release
- Adjustments are applied uniformly to all candidates sitting the same paper
- All adjustments are disclosed in the CILG Examinations Board Annual Report (published on www.cilg.org)
- Distinction (80%) and Merit (70%) boundaries are not subject to adjustment
2.4 CILG Level Excellence Award
✦ Level Excellence Award Criteria and Recognition
- Eligibility: Distinction (80%+) in all five modules at a given level, achieved at first attempt, within a single registration period
- Levels: Available at all five levels
- Recognition: Noted on the official CILG transcript and qualification certificate
- Public Register: Published in the CILG Level Excellence Register (publicly searchable at www.cilg.org)
- Announced: At the CILG Annual Conferment Ceremony
- Level 5 Prize: The CILG Chartered Professional Excellence Prize — presented at the Annual Conferment Ceremony to the highest-achieving Level 5 candidate in each calendar year
2.5 Re-sit Provisions
| Result | Re-sit Type | Scope | Waiting Period | Max Attempts | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Referred (45–49%) | Component re-sit | Re-sit of specific components where underperformance occurred — not the full paper | Minimum 60 days | One (1) component re-sit per Referred result | Reduced re-sit fee |
| Fail (below 45%) | Full module re-sit | Full re-sit of the complete module examination | Minimum 60 days | Maximum three (3) total attempts (including original sitting) | Standard module examination fee |
| Three consecutive fails | Formal re-application | Candidate must re-register, complete a refresher learning commitment, and submit a re-entry statement before a fourth attempt is permitted | Minimum 6 months from third fail | No cap after re-application | Full registration + re-entry assessment fee |
Re-sit results are not shown on the external official transcript. Only the final achieved grade for each module appears on the transcript.
2.6 Grade Review and Appeal Process
| Stage | Description | Basis Required | Timeline | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 — Clerical Check | Verify marks have been correctly totalled and transcribed | Open to all candidates — no basis required | 10 working days | USD 20 (refunded if error found) |
| Stage 2 — Script Review | Access and review the marked examination script | Available to all candidates; not a re-mark | 15 working days | USD 30 |
| Stage 3 — Independent Re-mark | Full re-mark by a second senior examiner, independent of the original marker | Specific marking error or irregularity identified in script review | 20 working days | USD 75 (refunded if grade changes) |
| Stage 4 — Examinations Board Appeal | Appeal re-mark outcome to the CILG Examinations Board | Procedural error, material bias, or marking irregularity not resolved at Stage 3 | 30 working days; Board meets quarterly | USD 50 (refunded if successful) |
Part Three
Assessment Framework
A multi-modal, competency-referenced assessment system using six distinct assessment methods calibrated to each level. Assessment design mirrors the standards of internationally recognised professional bodies in accountancy, human resources, governance, and leadership.
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3.1 Assessment Philosophy
CILG assessments are competency-referenced, professionally oriented, and multi-modal. These three characteristics are fundamental to the integrity of CILG qualifications and distinguish professional bodies' assessment from academic assessment.
Competency-Referenced
Every assessment measures performance against defined professional competencies — not against peer performance. Grade outcomes reflect what candidates know and can do.
Professionally Oriented
Assessments replicate real professional challenges. Multiple-choice knowledge tests alone are insufficient at most levels — assessments require analysis, judgment, and application in professional scenarios.
Multi-Modal
No single method is used for all modules or levels. The assessment mix is calibrated to the competencies being assessed and the professional stage of the candidate.
3.2 Assessment Methods — Full Specifications
CILG uses six assessment methods across its qualification framework. Click each method to expand the full specification.
1
▼
Designed to assess foundational and knowledge-level recall, comprehension, and basic professional application in a standardised, reliable, and objectively marked format. Consistent with objective testing approaches adopted by leading international professional examination bodies.
Structure
40–60 questions per paper. Formats: single best answer, true/false, matching, multi-part. Duration: 90 minutes.
Pass Mark
50% overall. No individual question minimum applies. No partial credit on MCQ questions.
Marking
Automated against a validated answer key approved by the Chief Examiner before examination. Results within 5 working days.
Quality Assurance
All papers reviewed by two Senior Examiners pre-approval. Post-examination item analysis conducted on every paper to identify poorly discriminating questions.
2
▼
Assesses analytical reasoning, professional judgment, structured written communication, and applied knowledge in a time-constrained professional environment. Mirrors the examination approach adopted by leading international professional bodies in human resources, management, and corporate leadership.
Structure
3–5 questions of varying length. Mark allocations explicit on the paper. Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours depending on level.
Pass Mark
50% of total marks. Minimum 40% on any compulsory question — prevents a catastrophic score on a single question being masked by high scores elsewhere.
Marking
Marked against a detailed Mark Scheme with performance descriptors for each grade band by CILG Approved Examiners. Criterion-referenced — not norm-referenced.
Quality Assurance
Mark Scheme approved by Chief Examiner pre-marking. Scripts within 5% of grade boundary are double-marked. Chief Examiner reviews all Distinction scripts and a 10% random sample.
3
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Assesses the ability to analyse complex, multi-faceted professional scenarios, apply theoretical frameworks, exercise judgment, and produce structured professional advice — replicating real-world practice. Modelled on leading international professional bodies case study examination and applied assessment approaches.
Structure
Pre-released or examination-room case (1,500–3,000 words) with professional tasks. Candidate response: 2,500–4,000 words. Time: 3–3.5 hours. Open-book permitted at Levels 3 and 4.
Pass Mark
50% overall. Professional Application criterion carries a minimum threshold of 40% — a candidate who cannot apply knowledge professionally cannot pass on knowledge alone.
Marking and Moderation
Two independent CILG Examiners (MCILG or FCILG). Where scores differ by more than 5 percentage points, a third Senior Examiner arbitrates.
4
▼
Assesses the candidate's ability to apply module learning outcomes in their own professional environment. Bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world practice. Directly aligned to workplace-based and assignment-led assessment methodologies adopted by leading international professional bodies in human resources and management.
Structure
2,500–4,000-word structured assignment. Candidate identifies a relevant challenge in their organisation and applies theoretical frameworks to analyse, evaluate, and recommend. Not time-constrained — submitted 4–6 weeks after the learning period.
Integrity
Candidates must declare the work is their own. All PPAs processed through CILG academic integrity software (Turnitin equivalent) detecting plagiarism and AI-generated content.
5
▼
Verifies that written performance reflects genuine professional competence through structured professional discussion. Mirrors the structured professional discussion and final competency interview approaches adopted by leading international professional bodies in corporate governance and chartered leadership.
Structure
45–60 minute structured oral assessment. Two CILG Assessors (MCILG/FCILG). Semi-structured: defined framework with assessor probing. Conducted in person or by video conference. Audio recorded with candidate consent.
Pass Mark and Outcome
50% of available marks. Both assessors must agree the grade. Where assessors disagree, the Chair has a casting determination. Result recorded on official transcript.
6
▼
The pinnacle of CILG assessment. Assesses capacity for professional scholarship, strategic insight, original contribution, and readiness for the Chartered designation. Modelled on the capstone portfolio defence and final examination approaches of leading international professional bodies in governance and chartered leadership.
Component A — Capstone Report
8,000–10,000-word Professional Governance Report addressing a substantive, original leadership or governance challenge. Must demonstrate thought leadership, evidence-based analysis, and practical recommendations.
Component B — Oral Defence
60-minute structured defence before a panel of three (3) FCILG Examiners. Panel may challenge any aspect of the Report, underlying evidence, or conclusions. Both components must be passed independently.
Pass Mark
50% on each component independently. Pass on Report but fail on Defence = overall fail; candidate may re-defend the same Report within 6 months. Unanimous agreement required from panel for a Distinction.
Examiner Panel
Three (3) FCILG Fellows with research or thought leadership credentials and a minimum of 15 years' distinguished practice. Appointed by the CILG Examinations Board annually.
3.3 Examination Windows and Administration
| Window | Months | Registration Deadline | Max Modules per Window | Results Released |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Window 1 | March | 6 weeks before first exam day | 3 modules maximum | Within 15 working days of window close |
| Window 2 | June | 6 weeks before first exam day | 3 modules maximum | Within 15 working days of window close |
| Window 3 | September | 6 weeks before first exam day | 3 modules maximum | Within 15 working days of window close |
| Window 4 | December | 6 weeks before first exam day | 3 modules maximum | Within 15 working days of window close |
3.4 Academic Integrity Policy
⚠ Zero-Tolerance Policy — Academic Misconduct
- Plagiarism: Presenting another's work, ideas, or published material as one's own without attribution
- Collusion: Collaborating to produce work submitted as the independent work of one or both candidates
- Contract Cheating: Commissioning or purchasing work from a third party and submitting as one's own
- AI-Generated Work: Submitting work generated by AI tools as one's own professional analysis and reflection
- Impersonation: Having another person sit an examination, or sitting in another person's place
- Examination Misconduct: Using unauthorised materials or communicating with candidates during examination
All submitted written assessments are processed through CILG's academic integrity software detecting both plagiarism and AI-generated content. Confirmed breaches are treated as a serious breach of the CILG Code of Professional Conduct, subject to sanctions up to and including permanent disqualification.
3.5 Marking, Moderation, and External Verification
| Stage | Process | Who |
|---|---|---|
| Standardisation | Mark Scheme approved by Chief Examiner. All examiners attend a marking standardisation meeting using sample scripts before marking commences | Chief Examiner + all examiners |
| Independent Marking | All assessments marked independently. For double-marked assessments, both examiners mark without knowledge of each other's score | CILG Approved Examiners |
| Reconciliation | Scores within 5% — average taken. Scores differing by more than 5% — Senior Examiner moderates and final mark is agreed | Senior Examiner |
| Boundary Review | Chief Examiner reviews all scripts within ±5% of any grade boundary to confirm the appropriate grade has been awarded | Chief Examiner |
| External Verification | Independent External Verifier reviews a 10% stratified random sample of marked scripts at every examination window. Report submitted to Examinations Board before results are ratified | External Verifier (independent of CILG examiner panel) |
| Board Ratification | Final results ratified by the CILG Examinations Board at its post-window meeting. No results released before ratification | CILG Examinations Board |
Part Four
Mode of Study
Five approved delivery models for CILG qualifications — all leading to the same qualification, assessed to the same standard. Designed for working professionals: flexible in timing and location, rigorous in standard.
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4.1 Approved Modes of Study
CILG qualifications may be pursued through five approved modes of study. All modes lead to identical qualifications, are assessed to the same standard, and produce the same CILG designation upon completion. The choice of mode depends on the candidate's learning preferences, schedule, geographic location, and employer support.
Description
The candidate studies independently using the CILG Learning Management System (LMS). All learning resources are accessed via the secure portal at the candidate's own pace, within the recommended timeframes.
Learning Resources Provided
- CILG Official Study Texts — professionally authored, competency-mapped to every learning outcome
- Module Learning Videos — 15–20 minute professional lecture segments per topic area
- Practice Question Banks — minimum 200 questions per module with model answers
- Two full mock examination papers per module with full mark scheme answers
- Professional Scenario Library — curated real-world governance and leadership case studies
- Online Tutor Access — asynchronous Q&A with a CILG-approved tutor (48-hour response SLA)
- Progress Tracker — real-time visibility on completion, quiz scores, and exam readiness indicators
Study Commitment
Recommended 100–120 hours per module. Self-paced over an 8–12 week recommended period per module.
Professional Body Alignment
Consistent with self-study provisions offered through approved learning partners and online platforms by leading international professional bodies in accountancy and professional education.
Description
A structured programme of live, facilitator-led sessions delivered via video conferencing, combined with CILG LMS self-study materials. Candidates attend scheduled virtual classroom sessions while maintaining access to all self-study resources.
Programme Structure
- 6–8 live virtual classroom sessions per module (90 minutes each) at scheduled times
- Sessions facilitated by a CILG-approved module tutor (minimum MCILG designation)
- Sessions recorded and available for replay within 48 hours for candidates who miss a session
- Interactive sessions: group discussions, breakout rooms, professional scenario analyses
- Full access to CILG LMS self-study resources between sessions
- Two live revision and examination preparation sessions per module
- Maximum 25 candidates per cohort to maintain quality of professional discussion
Attendance Expectation
Minimum 70% of live sessions expected. Below 70% attendance is noted and may be flagged in the professional record.
Professional Body Alignment
Consistent with virtual learning programmes and online facilitated learning models adopted by leading international professional bodies in human resources and management.
Description
A hybrid model combining CILG LMS self-study with a structured programme of in-person intensive workshops. Workshops are held at CILG regional centres or partner venues in major US and international cities. Candidates who cannot attend in-person may join a virtual equivalent session.
Programme Structure
- Online self-study via CILG LMS: approximately 70–80 hours per module
- One or two full-day in-person intensive workshops per module (8 hours each)
- Workshops include: facilitated case studies, group exercises, peer learning, exam preparation
- Post-workshop online follow-up: revision tasks and mock assessment review
- Workshops scheduled quarterly in each CILG regional centre
Study Commitment
Recommended 130–150 hours per module including self-study and workshop attendance.
Professional Body Alignment
Mirrors the blended delivery models and international workshop programmes adopted by leading international professional bodies in corporate governance and risk management.
Description
A structured in-house or cohort delivery programme arranged between CILG and an employing organisation. Designed for employers wishing to develop groups of employees through the CILG framework. Minimum cohort: 10 candidates.
Programme Structure
- All CILG LMS resources provided to each enrolled employee
- Facilitated programme delivered by a CILG-approved Corporate Trainer
- Option to contextualise learning materials to the organisation's sector and governance structures — subject to CILG approval
- Regular cohort progress reports provided to the sponsoring organisation
- Examinations administered at an authorised CILG Test Centre or through Online Proctoring
- 25% discount on individual upgrade and subscription fees for all enrolled employees
Quality Assurance
All corporate programmes approved by CILG's Learning Quality Committee. Facilitation quality monitored through learner feedback and periodic CILG programme audits.
Professional Body Alignment
Aligned to approved learning partner and approved employer scheme models adopted by leading international professional bodies in accountancy and human resources.
Description
CILG qualifications delivered by independently accredited organisations — universities, business schools, professional training providers, and independent learning centres — that have been formally accredited by CILG as Accredited Learning Partners (ALPs). ALPs may not set, mark, or release examination results; all assessment is administered directly by CILG.
ALP Accreditation Standards
- Qualified tutors for each module: minimum ACILG for Levels 1–2; MCILG for Levels 3–4; FCILG for Level 5
- Mandatory use of CILG-approved learning materials (CILG Study Texts and LMS access)
- Delivery in accordance with the CILG Programme Delivery Standards
- Annual CILG quality audit including observation of facilitated sessions
- Learner satisfaction scores must exceed 75% across all modules
- ALP status is renewed annually and may be withdrawn if standards fall below required level
Current ALP Directory
A searchable directory of all current CILG Accredited Learning Partners is available at www.cilg.org/alp.
Professional Body Alignment
Mirrors the tiered Approved Learning Partner and Learning Partner accreditation models adopted by leading international professional bodies in accountancy and professional education.
4.2 Recommended Study Hours by Level
The following are CILG's recommended minimum study hours per module at each level. These represent the investment expected for a candidate with appropriate prior knowledge to achieve a Pass. Candidates targeting Merit or Distinction should invest proportionally more time.
Level 1 — Foundation
Level 2 — Knowledge
Level 3 — Skills
Level 4 — Advanced
Level 5 — Professional
4.3 Programme Completion Timeframes
| Level | Recommended Duration | Maximum Permitted Period | Extension Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 — Foundation | 3 – 6 months | 18 months from first module registration | One (1) extension of 6 months on application; administration fee applies |
| Level 2 — Knowledge | 6 – 9 months | 24 months from first module registration | One (1) extension of 6 months on application; administration fee applies |
| Level 3 — Skills | 9 – 12 months | 30 months from first module registration | One (1) extension of 6 months; CPD compliance required for extension approval |
| Level 4 — Advanced | 12 – 18 months | 36 months from first module registration | Extension by application to Examinations Board only; must demonstrate active senior practice |
| Level 5 — Professional | 18 – 24 months | 48 months from first module registration | Extension by application to Examinations Board only; must demonstrate active executive practice and CPD compliance |
4.4 Candidate Support Services
| Service | Description | Contact / Access |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Tutoring | Module-specific tutoring from a CILG-approved tutor. Asynchronous (48-hour SLA) for all modes; live sessions in virtual classroom and blended modes | CILG Members' Portal — Tutor Support |
| Peer Learning Community | Moderated online community for discussion, professional insight sharing, and peer support. Organised by level and module | CILG Members' Portal — Community |
| Exam Preparation Workshops | Live online workshops (2 hours each) on examination technique, time management, and mock examination review. Held 6 weeks before each window | CILG Events Calendar — free for registered candidates |
| Welfare and Wellbeing | Confidential support for candidates experiencing personal difficulty affecting their studies. Signposting to professional support services | welfare@cilg.org — confidential |
| Reasonable Adjustments | Assessment adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional learning needs — see Section 1.3 | accessibility@cilg.org — 8 weeks before exam |
| Financial Hardship Support | The CILG Hardship Fund provides fee support for candidates facing financial difficulty. Assessed confidentially by the Secretary-General | hardship@cilg.org — confidential |
4.5 Alignment with international professional bodies Standards
The following table demonstrates alignment between CILG's four professional standards pillars and the practices of recognised international professional bodies across accountancy, human resources, governance, and leadership:
CILG Standard
International Body A (Accountancy)
International Body B (Management Accounting)
International Body C (HR & People)
International Body D (Governance)
International Body E (Chartered Leadership)
International Body F (Management & Leadership)
Eligibility
Open entry at Fundamentals; experience required at Professional and Strategic levels
Open entry; experience required at Management and Strategic
Open at Foundation; experience required at higher professional levels
Academic threshold + professional experience at each level
Open at Foundation; significant experience required at Chartered level
Supervisory experience for intermediate; managerial for senior levels
Grading
Pass/Fail + Prize for top candidates; competency-referenced
Pass/Merit/Distinction; competency-referenced
Pass/Merit/Distinction; competency-referenced
Pass/Merit/Distinction; competency-referenced
Pass/Merit/Distinction; competency-referenced
Pass/Merit/Distinction; competency-referenced
Assessment
MCQ, case study, constructed response; Capstone at Strategic
Objective, case study, integrated case study at Strategic
Written, work-based assignments, reflective practice at higher levels
Written exams, professional assignments, capstone project
Portfolio, written assignments, professional discussion
Written assignments, work-based evidence, professional discussion
Mode of Study
Self-study, approved learning partner, online, blended
Self-study, approved learning partner, online, blended
Self-study, workplace learning, virtual classroom, blended
Self-study, distance learning, approved centres
In-person, online, blended; facilitated professional
Online, blended, workplace through approved centres