The EP-APC is a direct route to becoming a Chartered Town Planner for planners with extensive experience.
The EP-APC provides a way for experienced planners, including those who gained qualifications and experience outside the UK, to become Chartered Town Planners. Built environment professionals who have been working in and alongside planners for an extended period – such as architects and surveyors – may also be able to apply through this route.
Eligibility
To be eligible to submit your EP-APC application:
- You must have a minimum of 5-10 years' professional planning experience (full-time equivalent). The exact amount required varies according to your educational background and qualification, as shown below.
- All this experience must be gained after the relevant qualification was obtained.
Educational background
a. Planning degree (fully or partially RTPI accredited) - experience required 5 years
b. Planning degree (non-RTPI accredited) - experience required 5 years
c. Non-planning degree - experience required 6 years
d. RTPI Town Planning Technical Support Apprenticeship - experience required 6 years
e. Other - experience required 10 years
What is the EP-APC?
EP-APC candidates must prepare a 7,000 word written submission (+/-10%) demonstrating their experience and how they have developed their competence. There are three parts to the submission:
- Practical Experience Statement
- Professional Competence Statement
- Professional Development Plan
Your EP-APC submission must contain the following items:
- EP-APC Application Form
- Personal Details and Payment Form
- Complete written submission with all three components (PES, PCS and PDP)
- Scanned copies of any relevant degree certificates or apprenticeship completion certificate (educational backgrounds a, c or d)
- Academic transcripts (educational background b only)
- Planning Degree Statement and Matrix (educational background b only)
- Examples of professional work (5-10 examples)
- Sponsor Declaration Form completed by a Chartered Town Planner
- Corroborator Declaration Form(s) completed by each employer referenced in your application
- Proof of administration fee payment
Download the main guidance from our Resource Centre.
Fees
There is a £290 assessment fee payable at the time of application. If you are required to resubmit, there is an additional charge of £30-£40 per section (maximum 3 sections). Fees can be paid online or by cheque and are non-refundable.
