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

Before you apply

Eligibility

To apply via a Recognition of Professional Qualification route you must:

  • Meet the qualification and experience requirements set out in the list of recognised qualifications.
  • Not have been referred on the Associate assessment if you are applying for AssocRICS.
  • Not have been referred on the Chartered assessment if you are applying for MRICS.

Important note: All routes are reviewed on a regular basis and are subject to change/closure at short notice. Where appropriate, RICS will honour applications already in process at the time of any change/closure.

RICS reserves the right to decline an application. In such cases, you will be required to undertake the most appropriate RICS assessment.

What do I need to apply?

To complete your application, you will need the following information:

  • A copy of your professional membership or qualification/accreditation certificate
  • Your Proposer’s membership number or the email address registered with RICS.

For the Chartered route, they must be an existing Chartered Member - MRICS or FRICS.

For the Associate route, they can be AssocRICS, MRICS or 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 direct entry from another professional body

View an example letter of good standing

  • A copy of your CV

Some routes include a condition that requires applicants to have a period of relevant experience. Where this is stated, RICS defines this as full-time and relevant to the RICS competencies as set out in the appropriate RICS pathway guide.

Full details of the fees required for the Recognised Professional Qualification Route can be found here.

Chartered (MRICS)

Check the list of approved qualifications and associated conditions.

Associate (AssocRICS)

Check the list of approved qualifications and conditions.

Vetting

The RICS Enrolment team will check that you are eligible and then confirm the next steps. These include:

  • Completion of the RICS Professionalism (ethics) module.
  • Confirmation from your Proposer.
  • Payment of the application fee.


The RICS Enrolment team will provide you with access to the Assessment Platform to complete these three steps module if your application has been approved at the vetting stage.

RICS Professionalism (Ethics) module

Behaving ethically and professionally is at the heart of what it means to be a RICS member; it distinguishes professionals from others in the marketplace.

If you are approved through the vetting stage, you will be required to successfully complete the RICS Professionalism (ethics) module before you are awarded an RICS qualification. The module includes e-learning and an online assessment.

Apply now

If you haven’t already got an RICS online account, you’ll need to create one:

Create an online account

Then you can apply:

Chartered (MRICS)

Apply for Chartered Recognised Professional Qualification

Associate (AssocRICS)

Apply for Associate Recognised Professional Qualification