Here you will find a series of frequently asked questions about each stage of the Assesment of Professional Competence (APC). If after reading the FAQs you still have unanswered questions or need further assistance please contact the RICS Contact Centre: contactrics@rics.org t +44 (0)870 333 1600.
General FAQs
What does APC stand for?
Assessment of Professional Competence - a period of structured practical training that ends with a final assessment to assess the aspiring chartered surveyor's competence to practise.
I keep hearing the words 'Local/National Association' - is this a different organisation to RICS?
No. Local/national associations are not a separate body to RICS. They are the RICS local offices representing the interests of chartered surveyors in particular countries.
I am based in a country where there is no local APC infrastructure in place. How will I be assessed?
You need to send a written submission and RICS will assess you on that. This means that you do not need to travel to another country for an interview.
How do I know where RICS has a local/national association in place?
All of our local/national associations are listed on the website.
Is the 'Route to Membership' and 'APC Faculty Pathway' the same thing?
No, they are different. Route to Membership is the route you follow to join RICS depending on your academic and professional experience, for example Graduate Route, Senior Professional Route. APC Faculty Pathway is the pathway you choose to complete, for example quantity surveying, valuation, building surveying etc.
Can I change my optional competencies?
Yes. You do not need to inform RICS but you must ensure that all the requirements of your chosen APC pathway are met to all levels.
Can you tell me what competencies I've chosen?
RICS does not keep a record of your chosen competencies - it is your responsibility to keep all records of your work.
If I change employer, do I need to inform you?
Yes. You must complete a change of employer form, which can be downloaded from the right hand column of this page.
Can I change my APC Faculty Pathway?
Yes, this is possible. This needs to be discussed with your Supervisor and Counsellor as they need to sign off your level of competence under the new pathway. You will need to cover all the competencies of the new pathway before being eligible for final assessment, and notify RICS at apc@rics.org.
What's the current pass rate of the APC?
70%
How many people sit the APC each year?
Approximately 2,700 worldwide (figures for 2006).
Does the APC cover all aspects of surveying?
Yes. Each candidate follows the same competency-based training programme but chooses a specific APC Faculty Pathway to specialise in to achieve Chartered Surveyor status.
What support can RICS give me throughout my APC?
Visit our APC support services page for more information.
