What’s the right membership grade for you?
CIPD membership grades reflect your level of capability, knowledge and impact in the workplace. Your member grade shows colleagues, clients and potential employers what you can offer as a people professional, so make sure your grade matches up with your abilities.
There’s a membership grade to suit everyone working in the people profession, from a Student Member building their skills for the future, to a Chartered Fellow putting their years of experience into practice.
For those studying a CIPD qualification to build their learning and boost their career prospects. Studying a qualification and becoming a CIPD Student Member puts you on the path to professional recognition, and your dedication to learning and development helps you to stand out in a competitive jobs market.
For people professionals who apply their knowledge to deliver strong tactical support.
For people professionals whose work is operational with some complexity: you’re beginning to contribute your thinking to people issues and solutions.
For people professionals who work strategically and operationally with some complexity. You’re actively driving and managing change to meet your organisation’s needs.
For people professionals who combine strategic insight and people expertise with commercial acumen, to change the way organisations think about their people.
For teachers, lecturers and researchers in the HR and learning and development fields.
For non-HR and L&D professionals looking to access CIPD content, resources and events, to help you in your work.
To recognise exceptional leaders, we have a Chartered Companion grade which is the highest level of recognition awarded by the CIPD. Following a nomination process, the CIPD Board selects individuals to enter this grade.
Expect more
in '24
Throughout 2024, we'll be announcing a line-up of tools and resources, tailored to support you throughout your membership.
Our latest
annual report
Growing our reach, growing our impact – discover how we're equipping our profession to make work work for all.
Additional information
These terms and conditions govern your membership with us
Ensure your career in HR or learning and development is as rewarding as it can be with the CIPD. Take a look at our current membership fees.
Use the membership standards to identify if a membership grade is right for you.
Help articles about CIPD membership.