Start strong in your pensions career
The Certificate in Pensions Essentials is a qualification designed to support the training and development of pensions administrators and other pensions professionals as part of a career development path.
Certificate in Pensions Essentials
Overview
Who is this course for?
- New pensions administrators beginning their career in the industry
- Early-career professionals working in pensions, finance or employee benefits
- Team members looking to build essential knowledge before progressing to more advanced qualifications
- Organisations seeking to provide structured, in-house training for staff
- Available only through PMI Approved Examination Partners
It’s particularly suited to those who want to understand the basics of pensions administration and build confidence in their day-to-day responsibilities.
Learning Support
Assessment method
Delivered, assessed and marked in-house by PMI Accredited Training Partner. The content of the units is designed to be delivered as an in-house prepared training session which is followed through with an in-house prepared set of questions based on the learning outcomes listed at the end of the unit.
Study Time
300 hours
To complete this qualification ten units must be completed out of eighteen possible options.
Cost
Pricing breakdown for all components:
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual accredited training partner fee | £1,000 |
| Annual student membership fee and final certificate | £185 |
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.
We would expect you to be confident that the candidates have achieved the Learning Outcomes set out in the Guidance Notes. The key to the flexibility of these qualifications is such that you, as a company, can decide how and when you want to train & test your staff following attendance at the training course. An Assessment test will need to be taken, but you design the questions based on the Learning Outcomes.
Level 2 is broadly equivalent to GCSEs and represents 20 learning hours on a particular subject. Level 3 equates to A levels and represents 30 learning hours on a particular subject. Following completion of these qualifications, a suggested route for administrators could be DPC/QPA which are set at Level 4.
Level 2 gives attendees a rounded knowledge of pensions (learning on the job, accessing an individuals records, being able to do a basic calculation etc) whereas Level 3 builds on this knowledge and can follow the career progression of an administrator.
They will need to achieve the 10 mandatory units for the Award and then claim a final qualification certificate from PMI
PMI will ensure that a check on standardisation has been undertaken on the Assessment test questions and candidate answers to ensure that the qualifications meet the quality approved standards and are consistent between various companies.
The PMI wants individuals to start and complete these qualifications in a realistic period. It is the PMI's expectation that the Award should be completed within 12 months and the Certificate within 18 - 24 months of registration.
If the Learning Outcomes state that a calculation is required, then this should be in the Assessment test.
The Qualification is made up of eighteen units of which ten must be completed to achieve the qualification. Candidates must complete all ten units to gain the qualification and claim a final certificate.
Units are assessed in-house via examination/written question and answer. They are compiled, carried out and marked in-house at the end of each unit training session.
Assessment questions must be written in such a way to allow the candidate to achieve all of the learning outcomes listed in each unit. A candidate passes the unit if all learning outcomes have been satisfied.
Upon completion of the CPE qualification, individuals can apply for Professional level of membership from the PMI and have the designatory initials ProfPMI after their name.
Unit certificates should be claimed for each of the ten units the candidate completed.
Final Certificates should be claimed when all ten units have been completed. We cannot issue certificates of credit to candidates who have been registered for less than 10 weeks.
Unit Certificates
Candidates complete ten out of the eighteen units available in the certificate. Unit certificates can be claimed as each unit has been successfully achieved.
Each unit certificate will have the following details on it:
- the PMI name and logo
- the candidate's name as registered (please ensure this is correct at point of registration and inform us promptly of any changes)
- the unit title, national number, credit value and level per unit
- a unique identifier for the certificate
- date on which PMI confirms the achievement by the candidate
- the signature of PMI's Chief Executive
Final Certificates
Final Certficates can be claimed at any time providing centre approval is maintained and there are no standardisation issues outstanding.
Each final qualification certificate will have the following details
- the PMI name and logo
- the candidate's name as registered (please ensure this is correct at point of registration and inform us promptly of any changes)
- the accredited qualification title and level
- the national accreditation number for the qualification
- a unique identifier for the certificate
- date on which PMI confirms the achievement by the candidate
- PMI's Chief Executive signature and PMI President signature
PMI Accredited Training Partner approval
Organisations wishing to offer this qualification must apply to for PMI Accredited Training Partner status.
It will be necessary to apply to become an PMI Accredited Training Partner - the process involves three stages:
- A Centre Recognition Form is completed and returned to PMI along with the approval fee.
- An approval visit to the centre is carried out.
- Once approval is agreed a PMI Accredited Training Partner status is issued and candidates can be registered for the approved qualification(s).
As soon as an Organisation has been approved as an Accredited Training Partner for CPE then candidate registration can commence. All candidate registrations must be completed by the Training Partner contact.
New to PMI?
The Examination Partner contact must register any new candidates.
PMI Pathways
Application for PMI Accredited Training Partners
Application
Organisations wishing to offer this qualification must apply to thePMI Accredited Training Partner, unless they are already a PMI Approved Centre.
It will be necessary to apply to become an approved centre - the process involves three stages:
A Centre Recognition Form is completed and returned to the PMI along with the approval fee.
An approval visit to the centre is carried out.
Once approval is agreed a PMI Accredited Training Partner Certificate is issued and candidates can be registered for the approved qualification(s).
Our dedicated team are here to help Start your journey with the PMI
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Got a question? Frequently asked questions
Which qualification is right for trustees?
If you are a pension scheme trustee looking to strengthen your governance knowledge and stay compliant with regulatory requirements, the Award in Pension Trusteeship (APT) is the ideal starting point. If you were wanting to become a PMI Accredited Trustee (Lay or Professional) we would also recommend taking the overall Certificate in Pension Trusteeship (CPT), which is a combination of the APT/Unit 1 exam, and the CPT Unit 2 ‘soft skills’ exam. For those Trustees who wish to highlight themselves at an even higher level, we offer our Level 5 Diploma in Pension Trusteeship (DPT) qualification. This is our highest level Trustee qualification, which deals with complex pensions issues, above and beyond just technical knowledge.
For those seeking a more advanced understanding, or aiming for a structured career path, you can also explore the PMI Pathways, which include the Pensions Trusteeship stream. This Pathway provides a clear route to further qualifications and ultimately offers a guaranteed way to achieve PMI Fellowship, the highest level of professional recognition.
Where do you hold your exams?
All PMI exams are currently being held online. Learners will be required to download the
TestReach application on the system/device which they will use to sit the exam. You can take your
exam in an office/work environment, or in the comfort of your own home.
Is this qualification suitable for someone new to pensions?
Yes. The Certificate in Pensions Essentials is designed for those at the beginning of their pensions career. It provides a solid foundation in key areas of pensions administration, and is ideal for building confidence and competence early on.
How is the qualification delivered and assessed?
The qualification is delivered and assessed in-house by PMI Approved Examination Partners. Each unit is taught through a structured training session, followed by a set of questions based on the learning outcomes. This approach ensures the content is relevant to your day-to-day role.
What qualifications does the Pensions Management Institute (PMI) offer?
We offer a range of qualifications including:
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Award in Pension Trusteeship (APT)
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Certificate in Pensions Calculations (CPC)
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Certificate in Pension Trusteeship (CPT)
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Certificate in Pension Scheme Member Guidance (CPSMG)
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Diploma in Employee Benefits and Retirement Savings (DEBRS)
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Diploma in Retirement Provision (DRP)
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Diploma in International Employee Benefits (DIEB)
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Advanced Diploma in Retirement Provision (ADRP)
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Award in Pensions Essentials (APE)
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Certificate in Pensions Essentials (CPE)
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Certificate in Pensions Administration (CPA)
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Retirement Provision Certificate (RPC)
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Diploma in Pensions Administration (DPA)
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Diploma in Pension Trusteeship (DPT)
These cover pensions administration, governance, strategic management and more.
Are PMI qualifications recognised in the industry?
Yes, our Ofqual-regulated qualifications are widely respected and recognised by employers across the UK pensions and financial services sectors. With 50 years in the industry, we have gained recognition and built strong partnerships across the UK pensions and financial services sectors.
Do I need experience to study with the PMI?
No, we offer entry-level regulated qualifications for beginners, and advanced options for experienced professionals.
How do PMI qualifications compare to others?
PMI qualifications are uniquely offered by us in the UK, and are designed specifically for pensions professionals. While rooted in UK pensions expertise, they also cater to those working internationally on UK pension schemes, combining technical knowledge with practical application.
How do I register for a qualification or exam?
Visit our website to register, or contact us at pmiqualification@pensions-pmi.org.uk, and our trusted team will get back to you.
What study resources are available?
We provide:
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Study guides and syllabuses
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Webinars and tutor support
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Peer discussion groups
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PMI-approved training partners
Can I study online or part-time?
Yes. Our flexible learning options are designed to fit around your work and life commitments.
What if I fail an exam?
You can retake it. Each qualification is examined three times annually, enabling learners to retake assessments with enhanced flexibility and minimal delay. We offer feedback and support to help you succeed next time.
Where is my qualification certificate?
Your certificate will be available on your PMI portal within one week of receiving your exam results. Please login using MyPMI.
Can I order a replacement certificate?
Yes, we charge different prices for a PDF or hard copy. Please contact the Qualifications team directly to discuss your options here: PMIQualifications@pensions-pmi.org.uk
Where should I start if I’m new to pensions?
If you’re beginning your journey in pensions, we recommend looking at the Level 4 Retirement Provision Certificate (RPC). This qualification is designed for those new to the industry and provides a strong foundation in workplace retirement provision. We would also suggest that new learners take a look at our Competency Framework, which defines the technical and functional competencies required to perform effectively at all career levels within the pensions sector. It serves as a standard against which individuals’ knowledge, skills and behaviours can be assessed, guiding professional development, helping firms identify skill gaps, and informing qualification and training pathways.
PMI Pathways are also ideal for anyone looking for a clear starting point based on your current role, experience, and future ambitions. Each Pathway helps you identify the qualifications that will support your career progression and give you access to PMI membership, unlocking exclusive PMI benefits, resources, and networking opportunities.
Do I need to be a PMI member to study?
Yes, to study and complete any PMI qualification, you’ll need to hold at least student membership. This ensures you have access to essential resources, support, and PMI Benefits throughout your learning journey.
What are the entry requirements?
There are no minimum requirements to sit any PMI qualifications. Learners are advised to opt for a course/PMI Pathway as per their career aspirations. We would advise looking in depth at qualification specification/syllabuses and ensuring the information on the webpages is read in good detail. How hard are the exams?
The level of difficulty depends on the qualification, your experience, and the time you dedicate to study. On average, the pass rate across all PMI exams is around 70%. To help you succeed, we provide detailed exam formats, pass mark information, sample papers, and study guidance. Each qualification is assessed three times a year, giving you flexibility to plan and, if needed, retake an exam while the learning is still fresh in your mind. w. This means you can progress without unnecessary delays and prepare with confidence.
How many CPD hours will I earn with PMI qualifications?
You can earn up to 15 CPD hours per year through a variety of professional activities:
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Exam Setting and Marking – Setting, marking, or assessing pensions-specific or business-related exams, including PMI qualifications, qualifies for up to 15 CPD hours annually.
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Delivering Courses and Workshops – Leading presentations, workshops, seminars, or webinars on relevant topics also counts for up to 15 CPD hours per year. Preparation and research for these events are included, but commercial courses do not qualify.
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Further Education – Completing training courses or learning programmes for postgraduate or equivalent qualifications, including online options, allows up to 15 CPD hours annually.
What are the fees and is there member pricing?
Fees are shown on each qualification; member pricing applies where stated, go here for more: Qualifications - The Pensions Management Institute
How do I take an online exam?
You will be required to book yourself on to the exam you wish to sit via the PMI website. After bookings close you will then be contacted by TestReach in due course, who will provide you with log-in details for your account for the TestReach application closer to the date of your exam, which will enable you to take your online proctored exam.
Are there any pre-requisites to sit for a PMI exam/qualification?
There are no minimum requirements to sit any PMI qualifications. Learners are advised to opt for a course/PMI Pathway as per their career aspirations. We would advise looking in depth at qualification specification/syllabuses and ensuring the information on the webpages is read in good detail.
How do I decide which qualification or module would work best for me?
Leaners are advised to refer to the PMI's Competency Framework where we have aligned our qualification as per the career roles of the candidates. For further guidance and questions please contact the PMI qualifications team.
What type of questions can be asked in an online exam?
The assessment model would differ for each qualification. For example, the Retirement Provision Certificate (RPC) qualification is based on multiple choice questions, whereas the Certificate in Pension Calculations (CPC) is designed in a calculation-based format. The Advanced Diploma in Retirement Provision (ADRP) would be assessed based on multiple choice questions/short and long answer questions. For further details, learners are advised to visit the webpage of the qualification they are enrolling for, to get specific guidance.
What should I do if I miss my exam?
You can submit extenuating circumstances if your reasons for missing the exam were exceptional and beyond your control, which will then be reviewed before a decision is made. However, as per our exam policy, if you are a ‘no show’ for your exam and we do not receive a sufficient reason as to why you were not present, you would be required to book on again for the next sitting at the full cost of the exam if you wished to still sit it.
Can I retake an exam at a reduced price if I fail?
No, we do not offer exams at re-sit price.
Is there a sample paper that I can view prior to the examination?
Yes, past papers can be viewed here.
Do I need to download any software onto my computer to take the examination?
Yes, you will be required to download the TestReach application to your device (laptop/desktop computer). If you are going to be taking your exam using a work device, we strongly urge you to get in touch with your IT team ASAP, who may need to enable certain permissions for the application to be downloaded and accessed. It is crucial that this is actioned in good time and as early as possible, as all learners are required to schedule themselves onto their exam 72 hours before they are due to sit the exam, to pass all the system checks, to avoid any issues on the day of the exam. A link to download the TestReach application is available on our qualification webpages.
Am I eligible for extra time during the exam?
Yes, if you have any medical conditions that inhibit your ability to complete an exam within the standard timeframe, e.g., dyslexia, or any other medical disorders, then we can offer you an additional 25% extra time on top of the standard exam time. We would need supporting evidence, such as a medical note from your doctor, to be provided to us, which would then be reviewed by a member of the team and a decision then made. If you require extra time, the PMI Qualifications team will get in touch in the run-up to your exam and request it from you in due course.
What happens if my internet connection fails during an online exam?
If your internet connection fails during an exam, we would request that you get in touch with the TestReach support team, who will attempt to troubleshoot and support you to get yourself reconnected with your exam and invigilator. If the problem continues to persist, you will be directed to the PMI Qualifications team where we will advise on the next steps to take.
When results of my online exam will be issued?
Please ensure you check the respective webpage of the exam that you sat for this information. Exam release dates will be posted on there, so you are aware as to when you can expect to receive your results.
Will I need ID for my exam?
Yes, you will need ID for your exam which will have to be shown to your online invigilator before you start. You will be made aware in the run-up to the exam of what ID is ‘valid’ and acceptable to use.
Do I have to stay for the whole duration of the exam even if I have finished?
No, you do not have to stay for the duration of your exam. If you are happy with the answers, you have provided and have clicked on the ‘submit’ button, you will be allowed to finish early.
Are there any minimum system requirements to take the examination?
There are minimum system requirements to sit your exam online. You can check to see if you fulfil these technical requirements by taking a look through the TestReach Remote Invigilation Protocol.
How is an online proctored exam different to an exam taken in a test centre?
The only difference is that the exam is taken online, so you can sit the exam in the comfort of your own home if you wish to do so. Fundamentally, however, there is no difference. By using TestReach we are ensuring that we are fully compliant with Ofqual regulations. Each learner is invigilated online by their exam proctor, who can see/hear the learner, as well as having a visual of their screen too, to see what the learner is viewing. Certain pre-exam checks are also taken beforehand, to ensure that the learner’s environment is acceptable for sitting an exam. All these factors ensure that the exams maintain their integrity and are in no way compromised by being held online. The TestReach Desktop App is very robust, safe to run and has been rolled out across the UK, in local government, emergency services, universities, pension administrators, financial corporations, etc. without any negative reports. Once the exam is completed, the TestReach App can be closed by clicking the button and has no notification service or any other configuration that runs whilst the application is not in use. Furthermore, TestReach is compliant with ISO standards and exams run are approved by many accrediting bodies.
What happens during the environment checks for remote invigilated exams?
Please refer to the information in the TestReach Remote Invigilation Protocol, which describes the validation protocol and the steps that trained invigilators will take to verify the identity of the candidate and to ensure that the candidate’s test environment is secure – this is for your information, and to know what to expect during the online exam.
Can I take a break during my exam?
Although comfort breaks are of course allowed, you should inform your invigilator beforehand (like you would in an exam centre). Your exam will NOT be paused/stopped while you have breaks, so please be mindful of how much time you have remaining for your exam.
Can I eat or drink during my exam?
All PMI exams should be taken in exam conditions. Although snacks are allowed, eating a full meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner etc.) is not permitted.
In short written answer exams what functionality is there in the exam environment while writing the answer?
The following formatting options are available:
- Font size
- Bold
- Italic
- Underline
- Text aligns (left, centre, right)
- Undo
- Redo
- Indent
Why do I need to confirm that I agree to the PMI Terms and Conditions before I can enter the
examination?
examination?
Even though taking an examination at home may be perceived as being a more relaxed environment, you are under strict examination conditions. For example, if you were to take your examination in a physical test centre, you are required to conduct yourself in accordance with the PMI candidate guidance in operation at the time and abide by the Examination Rules and Regulations. Any breaches of these could result in your examination being flagged to the PMI Qualifications team to review as part of the PMI Malpractice Policy.