In May 2025, RICS replaced the term ‘Direct Entry’ with Recognition of Professional Qualifications (RPQ). The name change aligns with RICS’ updated RPQ policy. The policy sets out the criteria and requirements for a qualification to be evaluated and, if approved, allow entry to RICS.

The new terminology reflects the professional status an individual holds and addresses any perception it is a ‘fast track’ to joining RICS.

The standard and conditions for RPQ routes remain the same

You have chosen to enrol onto the Associate Recognised Professional Qualification route to RICS Membership, this requires you to hold professional qualifications or membership of a recognised professional body.

To check your professional membership or qualification meets the conditions required for Recognised Professional Qualification to AssocRICS please see Recognised Professional Qualification to RICS membership.

To complete your application onto the Associate Recognised Professional Qualification route, you will need the following information:

  • A copy of your professional membership or qualification certificate/accreditation
  • Your Proposer’s membership number or the email address registered with RICS, they must be an existing Member – AssocRICS/MRICS/FRICS
  • A letter of good standing from your professional membership/licencing body confirming;
    • Membership/Licence is up to date with no ongoing regulatory matters
    • Confirmation of how you gained the qualification, either through assessment or Recognised Professional Qualification from another professional body
    View an example letter of good standing
  • A copy of your CV

This application will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.

Information on Recognised Professional Qualification fees is available here

Please note

  • When enrolment takes place before 1 October you will pay the current year’s subscription in full and you will then be required to pay the following year’s subscription when this becomes due on 1 January.
  • When enrolment takes place after 1 October your subscription fee will cover the period from October to December of the current year and all of the following year.
  • If you are currently in the process of obtaining your Chartered status with RICS through an existing application, you will be required to reselect your competencies upon completion of your Recognised Professional Qualification application in the Assessment Platform. This process will not affect your assessment and should only take approximately 8 minutes. It is recommended that you make a copy of your competency selection before proceeding with the Recognised Professional Qualification application.

All students and candidates registered with RICS are regulated members and are bound by RICS charter, Bye-laws, regulation, rules of conduct, standards and guidance.