Applications are evaluated using a bespoke points system, that takes full account of the quantity and quality of the applicant’s academic qualifications, vocational training and working experience.
Typical points values are:
Honours degrees in Computing from mainstream universities | 300 to 400 |
Other computer-related degrees and equivalents | 200 to 300 |
Intermediate computer-related qualifications (C&G; college diplomas etc) |
100 to 250 |
Short vocational training courses (including business where relevant) |
Up to 100 |
Relevant workplace experience, per year | 50 to 100 |
In simple terms the totals required for admission to the various grades of membership are:
Licentiate (LIAP) | 150 points |
Graduate (GradIAP) | 250 points |
Associate Member (AMIAP) | 350 points |
Member (MIAP) | 700 points (650 after two years as AMIAP) |
Fellow (FIAP) | At the discretion of the Trustee Board |
However, being a professional body the Institution is concerned to assess applicants on the same basis as employers will, on their professional skills and experience. We believe professionals should have all-round abilities, not just a narrow specialisation. The IAP system ensures that applicants meet these requirements by using different types of points:
A Points | Systems analysis and design |
P Points | Programming |
B Points | Business |
X points | Other factors |
Buried in the bald totals above there are additional constraints, designed to ensure that applicants have a balance of the skills and experience appropriate for a professional person at that grade. For example it is not possible to achieve Member status with three degrees but no knowledge of business, because the system does not allow it.
It is possible for applicants with no academic qualifications or formal training to join the Institution, even at the highest levels. But this is not an easy option, and not something we would recommend to someone starting a career. If skills are to be practiced they first have to be learned. Few professionals ever come to regret the time they spent acquiring proper instruction in the theories and practice of computing.