Qualifications / Accounting and Finance
Level 3 Certificate in Pensions Administration
The KPA Level 3 Certificate in Pensions Administration is a qualification designed for those working, or seeking to work, as members of the pensions team, including pension supervisors, managers, clerks, assistants and administrators. Providing staff with essential, up-to-date training helps to avoid costly administrative errors and mitigate financial risk to the business.
The qualification has seven mandatory units. The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) delivers the training to its candidates working towards this qualification. Each unit has a credit value building to 18 credits for the KPA Level 3 Certificate in Pensions Administration.
Fee (does not include a course or training)
£193 for exams
Qualification overview
This qualification has been developed with pension practitioners to ensure it meets the needs of the industry. Given the recent legislative changes impacting on pensions, there is more of a requirement than ever for businesses to ensure their employees are equipped with the necessary pension knowledge and practical skills to ensure this crucial process is carried out accurately and efficiently.
The qualification structure consists of seven mandatory units. Candidates will study seven key areas related to pensions administration. Assessment of these areas will include written assignments and an exam. Upon successful completion, candidates will achieve a nationally-recognised KPA Level 3 Certificate in Pensions Administration.
Who is this qualification for?
This qualification is the perfect choice for individuals who currently work, or want to work, within the following job roles:
- Pensions Supervisor
- Pensions Manager
- Pensions Team Leader
- Pensions Clerk
- Pensions Assistant
- Pensions Administrator
Progression opportunities
Upon completion of the award, candidates may progress onto the CIPP Foundation Degree in Pensions Administration and Management.
Entry requirements
This qualification is designed for candidates who are 16 years of age or older.
Exemptions and/or Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
There are no exemptions for this qualification.
Delivery languages
This qualification is available in English only at this time.
In the case of applicants whose first language is not English, it is preferable to have proof of English (i.e. IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent).
Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications
Structure and assessment
This qualification is composed of seven units, which are listed in the qualification structure below. The candidate must successfully complete all required assessments to obtain the qualification certification. The total qualification time is 175 hours.
Qualification structure
| Unit title | Assessment method | Mandatory / Optional | Level | GLH |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transferring into and out of Pension Schemes | Assignment | Mandatory | 3 | 20 |
| Overview of UK Pension Schemes | 3 | 20 | ||
| Providing Pension Scheme Information | 3 | 20 | ||
| Creating and Maintaining Pension Scheme Member records | 3 | 20 | ||
| Payment of Scheme Benefits to Pensioners | 3 | 20 | ||
| Amend Pension Records to Reflect a Member’s Change of Circumstances | 3 | 40 | ||
| Working as the Member of the Pensions Team | Computer based exam | 3 | 20 |
Assessment method
The qualification is assessed by one computer-based examination and six written project assignments. It is graded at pass or fail.
For further details:
Training centres
This qualification is only available through KPA recognised training centres. Please contact the centre directly to find out if they are currently offering your chosen qualification.
Centres approved to run this qualification
| Training centre | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) | Solihull | More info |
Becoming a KPA approved centre
To become a KPA approved centre you will need to meet general and specific requirements to ensure the standard and quality of the qualification delivery is maintained year on year.
Our dedicated support team will guide you through the application process and help to ensure you have all the information you need to deliver the qualification and assessment in the most effective way for your candidates.
All approved centres will be subject to ongoing regulatory processes, including centre visits, which will focus on the internal quality assurance process, management of the qualification delivery and the service provided to the candidate.
To learn more about becoming a KPA centre or working in partnership with a KPA centre, please contact us.
Documents and specification
Full details of this qualification can be downloaded below.
Schedule of Key Dates
2025 Schedule of Key Dates (101KB PDF)file_download
Qualification specification
Level 3 Certificate in Pensions Administration specification (700KB PDF) file_download
Candidate support
It’s imperative to us that qualifications and assessments are accessible to all candidates. If you have any special needs, disabilities, temporary injuries or commitments that might impact upon your daily activities, for example pregnancy, breastfeeding or daily prayer, please notify us on registration so that we can ensure your needs are met.
KPA complies with the Equality Act 2010 and Ofqual general conditions of recognition regarding fair assessment. Our Access Arrangments policy aims to remove any unnecessary barriers to assessment that may prevent you from effectively demonstrating your competence.
You can apply for access arrangements by contacting our team to request an application form. Applications must meet the deadlines set out in the policy. If you are granted access arrangements, please inform us immediately if the circumstances related to your access arrangements change prior to your examination date.