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Qualification Level 3 - Certificate in Pension Trusteeship (CPT)

Certificate in Pension Trusteeship

The Certificate in Pension Trusteeship will give those wishing to become Accredited Trustees the necessary qualification to prove their knowledge and their application of this knowledge, in their role as an Accredited Trustee.

Overview

Who is this course for?

The Certificate in Pension Trusteeship (CPT) is designed for individuals working towards becoming Accredited Trustees. It provides a formal qualification that demonstrates both your technical knowledge and your ability to apply that knowledge in practice.
  • Aspiring Accredited Trustees who want to validate their knowledge and practical understanding
  • Experienced trustees seeking formal recognition of their skills
  • Professionals working in governance, scheme oversight or trustee support roles
  • Those who have completed the Award in Pension Trusteeship (APT) and wish to progress further
It’s particularly suited to individuals with a strong grasp of pensions who are ready to demonstrate their capability in both technical and interpersonal aspects of trusteeship.

Learning support

There is no formal study material for this exam, however, we do offer some suggested further reading and also some sample questions and answers to give a sense of what kind of questions you could expect to answer.

Assessment method

The CPT qualification is assessed through two standalone units:
Unit 1 – Professional Trusteeship:
A 90-minute multiple choice exam with 60 questions
Unit 2 – Soft Skills:
A 90-minute multiple choice exam with 60 questions
Unit 2 may include questions with more than one correct answer. However, selecting any one of the correct options will earn full marks for that question.
Learners who have already completed the Award in Pension Trusteeship (APT) or an equivalent qualification will be exempt from Unit 1. These prior achievements will be recognised through RPL and count towards the final certificate.

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.

Description Cost
Qualification Package (Non-Student Member) £617
Qualification Package (Current Student Member) £330
Final certificate Free of charge
Physical certificate: £85
Final Fee £617
Annual student membership fee £287

Useful Resources

Important Information

Study recourses 

 

The PMI provides a dedicated study skills website designed to support learners at every stage of their qualification journey. The site offers practical guidance on how to prepare effectively for exams, along with tips and insights into the specific exam formats you may be taking. You can access the study skills website here.

 

Assessment support

We are committed to fair and consistent assessment processes. Special consideration may be granted where a learner has been temporarily affected by circumstances beyond their control which may have impacted exam performance such as:

  • Illness
  • Injury
  • Issues at the exam centre (for example, noise or disruption) 

Further information on special consideration and the PMI’s approach to examinations, verification and assessment is available on the here.

Prior learning
  • Three GCSE passes (at ‘C’ level standard). PMI will consider higher qualifications (A level) to be a sufficient entry standard.
  • A level 2 qualification, or above, as shown on the regulated qualifications framework of the United Kingdom or overseas qualifications, as judged by UK NARIC, to be equivalent in standard to a level 2 qualification in the UK (or higher). Such qualifications should contain a similar number of learning hours to that of the Level 3 Certificate in Pension Trusteeship. PMI will consider each application on a case by case basis.

However, we would anticipate most learners would be working in the field and/or undertaking the role of trustee, and should a learner possess no such qualification, PMI will consider the employment status and history of a learner’s knowledge, in lieu of qualifications. In such cases, a signed reference letter from employers’ must accompany each application.

All learners must also provide evidence of proficiency in the English Language. In this case it is:

  • IELTS 5.0 for the Design pathway (with a minimum of 4.5 in any one skill) or
  • B1 (or its equivalent)
Study

The PMI have recently launched the 'study skills' website, which will help learners understand how best to prepare for their exams, as well as gives tips and information regarding the specific style of exams you may be taking.

The study skills website can be found here.

Examinations

The CPT unit 2 (soft skills) exam is being examined via remote invigilation, which enables you to take an exam from the comfort of your own home. In order to sit this exam, you will be required to have video camera/webcam.

If you are unsure, please contact the Qualifications team and we will be happy to assist.

Failure to ensure you have the correct software and video camera, will result in you unfortunately not being able to sit the exam.

PMI Pathways

Pensions Trusteeship

PMI Pathways give you the flexibility to choose the direction of your career and identify the PMI qualifications that will help you reach your goals. When you join a Pathway, you also gain PMI membership, proving your expertise in workplace retirement and unlocking exclusive PMI benefits, resources, and networking opportunities.
Whether you’re starting your career or already have experience, every Pathway is designed to support you at any stage with the end goal of becoming a Fellow. If you’ve already started an exam, you can easily be added to the relevant Pathway, ensuring your progress counts towards your chosen career direction.

Book your exam

Bookings for exams

Ready to take the next step in your qualification journey? PMI exam units are available throughout the year, giving you the flexibility to plan your studies and sit exams when the timing is right for you. Choose the units you’re ready for and progress at a pace that suits your professional commitments.

The Certificate in Pension Trusteeship will give those wishing to become Accredited Trustees the necessary qualification to prove their knowledge and their application of this knowledge, in their role as an Accredited Trustee.

15 September 2026:
Apply by 20 July 2026
Book here

To sit this qualification, you must be a PMI student member

Any required student membership fee will be automatically added at checkout when you register for the exam, no separate membership application is needed.

Already a PMI student member?

If you’re already a PMI member, you can register for your exam directly through your MyPMI portal.

Additional course information

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Got a question?  Frequently asked questions

Which qualification is right for trustees?    

Where do you hold your exams?

Do I need to complete both units to earn the Certificate in Pension Trusteeship?

What should I expect from the Soft Skills exam in Unit 2?

Can I arrange a private sitting for the CPT Unit 2 exam?

What qualifications does the Pensions Management Institute (PMI) offer?

Are PMI qualifications recognised in the industry?

Do I need experience to study with the PMI?

How do PMI qualifications compare to others?

How do I register for a qualification or exam?

What study resources are available? 

Can I study online or part-time?

What if I fail an exam?

Where is my qualification certificate? 

Can I order a replacement certificate? 

Where should I start if I’m new to pensions?  

Do I need to be a PMI member to study?  

What are the entry requirements?

How many CPD hours will I earn with PMI qualifications?

What are the fees and is there member pricing?

How do I take an online exam? 

Are there any pre-requisites to sit for a PMI exam/qualification?

How do I decide which qualification or module would work best for me?

What type of questions can be asked in an online exam? 

What should I do if I miss my exam? 

Can I retake an exam at a reduced price if I fail? 

Is there a sample paper that I can view prior to the examination? 

Do I need to download any software onto my computer to take the examination? 

Am I eligible for extra time during the exam? 

What happens if my internet connection fails during an online exam? 

When results of my online exam will be issued? 

Will I need ID for my exam? 

Do I have to stay for the whole duration of the exam even if I have finished?

Are there any minimum system requirements to take the examination? 

How is an online proctored exam different to an exam taken in a test centre? 

What happens during the environment checks for remote invigilated exams? 

Can I take a break during my exam? 

Can I eat or drink during my exam? 

In short written answer exams what functionality is there in the exam environment while writing the  answer? 

Why do I need to confirm that I agree to the PMI Terms and Conditions before I can enter the 
examination? 

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