Frequently Asked Questions

Q Can I carry forward excess hours from one year to the next?
A No- the requirement of 35 hours applies to the specific CPD activity undertaken in each calendar year.

Q How much does it cost to participate in the CPD scheme?
A Participation in the CPD scheme is included as part of your membership fee. There is no charge other than for CIOBS provided courses which you may elect to take as part of your CPD plan. 

Q When do I submit my CPD plan?
A There is no longer a requirement to send in your CPD plan unless you have been specifically requested to do so as part of a sample check being done for general monitoring purposes. You have the option to keep your plan up to date via our website on an ongoing basis or by retaining written records.

Q How do you qualify to use the designation of Chartered Banker?
A Chartered Banker status is available to qualified members [MCIBS or FCIBS] who complete their CPD on an annual basis.

Q If I have qualified as a Chartered Banker, what happens if I don’t undertake my CPD.
A In the event that you don’t continue with your CPD, you will not be able to use the designation of Chartered Banker although you will retain MCIBS status.

Q What documentation do I need to retain to provide evidence of my CPD activity?
A Your CPD plan. While the scheme operates on a Self Certification basis, it is suggested that it is good practice to retain records such as Certificates awarded, test results etc. CIOBS reserve the right to ask for additional clarification or information as part of the validation process if you are selected as part of the annual sample undertaken for monitoring purposes.
If your employer participates in the Approved Employer Scheme, then no validation of that element [30 hours] of your CPD is required. The remaining 5 hours of your CPD activity undertaken on an individual basis will require to be validated if you are selected as part of the annual sampling undertaken for monitoring purposes.

Q. How can I achieve 5 hours CPD on Professionalism and Ethics?
A This may be achieved in a variety of ways, including but not limited to:

• Via ethics training undergone with other professional bodies or providers;
• Community/voluntary or similar activities which would encourage ethical and professional development;
• Self-directed and informal learning; and
• Participating in or delivering presentations, workshops, etc with an ethical/professional theme. 

In addition, ethical case studies (including suggested solutions) will be included in “Chartered Banker” (the Institute magazine).  Reviewing each case study comprehensively will equate to 1 hour of CPD helping members meet the compulsory minimum of 5 hours on this topic.

Q Can I undertake all of my 35 hours CPD requirement under Technical Skills or Management and Leadership Skills or Communication Skills?A No, while you can undertake the vast majority under any one of the Skills categories, you will need to complete the compulsory element on Professionalism and Ethics. You may, however, wish to spread your development across a range of different skillsets.