CIPS Exam Information

To successfully achieve a CIPS qualification, you are required to complete one computer-based exam per module of study. These examinations are designed to assess your understanding, knowledge and professionalism within the procurement and supply sector. You select the exact details of how you want to complete your exams. With multiple exam series available to you throughout your studies, and options of centre based, or remote invigilation, you can take full control of your CIPS course from the very beginning.

WHERE: Exam Centre vs Remote Invigilation

When registering for an exam, you have the option to complete it at a CIPS-approved exam centre or via remote invigilation. Exam centres are located across the UK and are also available in other countries across the globe. You can find your closest exam centre here. You also have the option to sit your exams remotely. There are specific requirements for sitting your exams remotely, you can find out more about this here.

WHEN: Exam Series

CIPS host exams four times a year, March, May, July and November. You can view their exam schedule here to begin planning your study timetable. We advise discussing your desired course completion timeline and study schedule with our team of Student Support Advisors and Tutors, ensuring you utilise the wealth of resources available to you for your exam preparation.

HOW: Objective Response (OR) and Constructed Response (CR)

There are two types of CIPS examination: objective response (OR) and constructed response (CR).

Objective response exams are multiple choice questions. This can consist of selecting an answer from a list of possible options, fill in the blanks by choosing options from a drop down menu, or dragging and dropping the answer in a response box.

Read the CIPS OR guide for further details.

Constructed response exams require written answers. This will consist of a scenario or a data source, and the question will have a command word that prompts the requirements of the answer. This format of exam is found in the CIPS qualifications at levels 4, 5, and 6.

Read the CIPS CR guide for further details.

Booking Your Exams With DLC Training: CIPS Exam Fees

Exam fees differ depending on whether you are sitting exams in a physical CIPS-approved exam centre or via remote invigilation. There are also differences in fees for objective response (OR) and constructed response (CR) exams. Below you will find the different CIPS exam fees for each unit at every level.

We strongly advise against booking any exams before you have enrolled and completed your induction. This ensures you have full access to your study materials, the learning platform, and have had an initial discussion with your tutor to help you feel fully prepared before scheduling any exams.

The fees listed above are for UK-based learners/centres. We can provide you with more details regarding each country upon request.

Please note: To allow our teams to provide you with the highest examination support, we advise that you schedule all exams through our online portal. This allows us to provide you with feedback and guidance following your exam sitting if required. Examinations can be paid for individually – via online payment and prior to exam booking deadlines, or as part of an exam package which can be included in your original course invoice. Exam packages must be utilised within 24 months of purchase unless otherwise discussed.

Exam packages include one exam attempt per module, resits are charged separately and while DLC Training will do their utmost to offset any increased charges, where required you will be charged additionally if CIPS exam fees increase. Admin fees for exam packages are charged accordingly – speak with our advisors to find out more about the options available to you.