What is PARS?
The Post-Apprenticeship Recognition Scheme (PARS) is a UK-wide recognition scheme that gives qualified apprentices the right to use professional post‑nominal letters after their name.
Developed by the Association of Apprentices (AoA) and the Chartered Institution for Further Education (CIFE), PARS formally recognises the value of apprenticeships as a professional route and celebrates the skills, experience and commitment gained through completing an apprenticeship.
PARS provides clear, visible recognition of apprenticeship achievement and supports progression, professional identity and long‑term career development.
Why PARS Matters
An apprenticeship is a unique educational pathway that combines real‑world work experience with technical and professional learning. PARS exists to ensure that this achievement is recognised in the same visible way as other professional routes.
A PARS award helps apprentices:
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Gain professional recognition for completing an apprenticeship
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Demonstrate workplace‑ready skills and applied experience
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Stand out to employers, peers and clients
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Show commitment to professional standards and ongoing development
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Strengthen their professional profile on platforms such as LinkedIn, CVs and email signatures
What Does a PARS Award Show?
Using PARS letters after your name demonstrates that you:
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Have skills and knowledge that add value to organisations
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Have meaningful work experience embedded into your learning
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Are part of a wider professional apprenticeship community
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Are committed to maintaining professional standards and development
PARS offers an immediate, recognisable way to communicate the value of your apprenticeship achievement.
Who Can Apply for PARS?
PARS is open to all apprentices, regardless of level or occupational pathway, provided they:
Completed an apprenticeship in the UK
As long as you did your apprenticeship in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales, you can apply. There are no time restrictions on when you completed your apprenticeship.
Hold an official apprenticeship completion certifcate.
The majority of apprentices will receive a certificate on completion of their course. Additional evidence maybe requested for the degree apprenticeship on an individual basis.
Can provide the details of a professional supporter.
This person can be from your current or apprenticeship employer, training provider, or a senior industry professional. They won't be involved in the application process.
There are no time restrictions on when the apprenticeship was completed.
PARS Awards Levels
PARS awards correspond to the level of apprenticeship completed.
Certificate of Standard Apprenticeship (CSA)
Level 2 (England, Northern Ireland, Wales)
Level 5 (Scotland)
Fee: £40
Certificate of Higher Apprenticeship
(CHA)
Level 4 & 5 (England, Northern Ireland, Wales)
Level 7 & 8 (Scotland)
Fee: £64
Certificate of Advanced Apprenticeship (CAA)
Level 3 (England, Northern Ireland, Wales)
Level 6 (Scotland)
Fee: £58
Certificate of Graduate Apprenticeship (CGA)
Level 6 & 7 (England, Northern Ireland, Wales)
Level 9-12 (Scotland)
Fee: £75
Pars Application Process
The PARS application is designed to be simple and reflective, not an additional assessment.
Applicants are required to:
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Register an online PARS account
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Complete a short eligibility check
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Answer reflective questions about their apprenticeship experience
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Upload their apprenticeship completion certificate
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Pay the applicable application fee
The reflection focuses on your experience and development during your apprenticeship — it is not a test of technical competence.
Where to Apply for PARS Award
PARS applications are submitted online via the official platform. Applicants should have their apprenticeship completion certificate and supporter details ready before starting.
Decisions are typically made within six weeks of submitting a completed application.
Fees and Financial Support
A one‑off application fee applies, ranging from £40 to £75, depending on apprenticeship level.
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The fee is paid once; there is no renewal requirement
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Some employers may choose to pay on behalf of apprentices
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Application fees are not levy deductible
For those who may need financial support, bursaries may be available:
