Practical Pensions Administration
Gain the practical knowledge and skills needed to excel as a Pensions Administrator. This course focuses on preparing you to deliver high-quality service consistently, representing customers and stakeholders effectively. It includes work-based activities like processing member events, handling retirements, transfers, and more, making it ideal for those pursuing a career in Pensions Administration.
Who is this pathway for?
The Pensions Administration Practical stream is for individuals who want a career in pensions administration, who deals with the processing and checking of all member events, leavers, retirements, transfers, deaths, divorces, quotes and general queries.
Practical Pensions Administration
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Qualification
Award in Pensions Essentials
The Award in Pensions Essentials (APE) is a qualification designed to support and acknowledge the training and development of new pensions administrators or those who need an introduction to pensions, HR or Payroll.
Qualification
Retirement Provision Certificate
The Retirement Provision Certificate is ideal for employees new to pensions, support staff and those professionals working in related fields. It provides a broad introduction to pensions and other related benefits in the UK.
Qualification
Certificate in Pensions Scheme Member Guidance
This qualification is designed to meet the needs of pensions staff who regularly liaise with members selecting options from a pension scheme. This qualification is concerned with improving member outcomes and providing guidance on benefit options. As this guidance is in the area of non-regulated advice the qualification provides an overview of the distinction between regulated and non-regulated advice, the different types of pension scheme and the factors that need to be considered in making decisions in regard to benefits. It covers various options and situations, including: joining, leaving, transferring, retirements, commutation, death, and divorce.
Qualification
Certificate in Pensions Calculations
The Certificate in Pensions Calculations (CPC) is a qualification aimed at pensions administrators that demonstrates their ability to carry out manual benefit calculations for occupational pension schemes
Unit
Defined Benefit Arrangements
The aim of the unit is to provide an in depth understanding of trust-based defined benefit (DB) arrangements, building on and utilising the knowledge gained in the core units and applying it in a variety of scenarios, recognising the requirements of different stakeholders.
Unit
Defined Contribution Arrangements
The aim of the unit is to provide an in depth understanding of trust and contract-based DC arrangements, building on and utilising the knowledge they have gained in the core units to show that they can apply this in a variety of scenarios and recognising the requirements of different stakeholders.
Unit
Professionalism and Governance
The aim of the unit is to provide candidates with:
- An understanding of the importance of professionalism and ethics
- The importance of continuing their own professional development
- An appreciation of risk and governance issues as they apply to pension schemes
- The opportunity to demonstrate their ability to apply risk and governance principles in a practical situation
- Evidence that they can communicate their knowledge in a way that is relevant to their audience.
Practical Pensions Administration
Cost
To sit this qualification, you must be a PMI Student member. If applicable, a £287 student membership fee will be automatically added at checkout when you register for the exam, no separate membership application is required.
Retirement Provision Certificate (RPC) |
£520 |
Award in Pensions Essentials (APE) |
£185 |
Certificate in Pensions Scheme Member Guidance (CPSMG) |
£590 |
Certificate in Pensions Calculations (CPC) |
£220 (per unit) |
Defined Benefit Arrangements (unit) |
£560 |
Defined Contribution Arrangements (unit) |
£560 |
Professionalism and Governance (unit) |
£560 |
Transcript |
£25 |
Final Pathway Certificate |
£85 |
Development Partners |
Please contact us for your discount |
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Got a question? Frequently asked questions
What does the Pensions Management Institute (PMI) do?
We support individuals and organisations through qualifications, training, and thought leadership in pensions and retirement benefits. We educate pension professionals, we empower tomorrow’s pension leaders, we enable better saver outcomes.
What educational qualifications does the PMI offer?
The Pensions Management Institute (PMI) is the UK’s leading professional body for people who manage, support and advise on workplace pensions. We set the standards for excellence in pension management, provide professional qualifications, and deliver education, insight and networking to help our members excel in their careers.
Can I attend events if I am not a member?
Yes, many of our conferences, webinars, and training sessions are open to non-members. However, PMI members enjoy discounted rates and exclusive access to certain events, research and networking opportunities.
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Who can benefit from becoming a member of the PMI?
PMI membership is open to anyone working in or supporting the pensions and retirement savings industry — from administrators and trustees to consultants, HR professionals, and finance specialists. Members gain access to expert insight, continuing professional development, and a recognised mark of professionalism.
When are the next exam dates?
Exam dates vary by qualification and are published on the PMI website. You can find the most up-to-date exam calendar and registration deadlines on each qualification’s information page.
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How does the PMI work with organisations?
The PMI partners with employers, trustees and industry bodies to support professional standards across the pensions sector. We provide corporate memberships, tailored training, and thought leadership to help organisations build skilled, compliant and effective pensions teams.
Are you are an organisation looking to partner with PMI? find out more
What are the benefits of earning a certification with the PMI?
A PMI qualification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to high professional standards. It enhances your credibility, supports career progression, and ensures you stay current with the latest pensions legislation, regulation and best practice.