CPD sample – what you need to know

Soon, we’ll be contacting members who’ve been selected as part of the annual Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sample. This is an important exercise completed each year to provide assurance that members are completing sufficient CPD. It also includes more detailed reviews of CPD records, which form an important part of our monitoring processes.

In 2024 and 2025, ICAS carried out an in-depth review of the CPD requirements for members who are not retired. There are two main models used by professional bodies for CPD: Output-based models, which broadly allow members to decide what CPD is appropriate for their role, and input-based models, which require a set number of hours to be completed each year.

In September 2025, Council decided to retain ICAS’ current output-based model. This approach has been in place for many years and appears to be working effectively and proportionately.

Following this decision, we’re currently finalising our approach to the sample of CPD records for 2025. In February 2026, ICAS’ Regulation Board agreed that this would be a risk-based sample of between 50 and 100 members.

We’ll shortly write to the members who’ve been selected, explaining what they need to do, and within what timescale.

Why is CPD important?

In an ever-changing world, maintaining CPD helps members remain relevant, whilst boosting confidence and capability. CPD can also help progress careers, moves into new roles, and the grasping of opportunities.

CPD also provides reassurance to the public and employers that ICAS and our members are committed to upholding the highest standards.

What is the purpose of the ICAS sample?

The CPD sample is a proportionate and resource-effective means for ICAS to take comfort on the amount and nature of CPD being undertaken by members.

How does ICAS decide who is sampled?

We use a risk-based sample which means that members will be more or less likely to be sampled, depending on the nature of their role.

What do members need to do if they are selected as part of the sample?

Members will be contacted by email and asked to provide a copy of their CPD record for 2025 within a four-week timescale. Learn more about CPD requirements.

Further correspondence with the member may be required if there are any gaps or other concerns in respect of the record which is submitted.

Will the 2025 sample cover the new mandatory ethics requirement?

No – the requirement for all non-retired members to complete one hour of ethics CPD applies from 1 January 2026 onwards and will therefore be covered as part of future annual samples. Learn more about this requirement and explore the supporting resources.