If you’ve recently just completed your CIPD Level 3 qualification and are wondering what you should do to advance in your career in 2026, then here’s everything you need to know:
Yes, you absolutely can take the CIPD Level 5 to upgrade your HR career into more managerial roles.
However, you need to first understand the difference between the two levels and carve a path that’s unique to you.
The most common questions we hear from Level 3 graduates are:
“Can I upgrade to Level 5?”
“Do I need to go straight to Level 5, or can I wait?”
“What’s actually different between these two levels?”
These are all valid questions that deserve an answer, and it’s exactly why we’re breaking down the most asked questions, so that you can make the right choice before investing your time and energy into another qualification.
What Is the Difference Between CIPD Level 3 and 5?
Before jumping into whether you can upgrade from a CIPD Level 3 to a CIPD Level 5, let’s map out the differences between the two and the entry requirements for both levels.
While both are valuable qualifications for your career progression, they serve different purposes and target different career stages.
Here’s the ultimate decision guide for anyone considering a CIPD qualification in 2026.
We have also created a dedicated blog post on the differences between the two levels to help you decide which is the right fit for your current situation and future goals.
Check it out here.
Can You Go Straight to CIPD Level 5?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions from aspiring HR professionals.
The short answer is:
Yes, in most cases, you can go straight to CIPD Level 5 without completing Level 3 first.
The long answer is:
In most cases, each qualification has its own requirements and depends on whether you want to cover the basics again or if you’re already ready to take up more advanced learning.
The answer really depends on how you want to learn.
If you prefer detailed, step by step content covering the basics, go on and do Level 3 first.
If you already have significant experience in HR and understand the fundamentals of hiring, managing, solving issues or leading change, then you might not technically need the Level 3.
If you feel like the basics won’t contribute to your career progression, then consider going straight to the CIPD Level 5.
You need to find the starting point that feels right to you.
Entry Requirements for CIPD Level 5
CIPD Level 5 is designed for two types of candidates:
– CIPD Level 3 Qualified
– Or some HR experience (6- 12 months or more)
When Should You Start with Level 3?
While you have the option to skip CIPD Level 3 entirely if you have the relevant foundations, there are situations where starting there makes more sense:
- You’re a career changer with no HR experience
Suppose you’ve never worked in HR and don’t have a good understanding of the foundations, like HR models, hiring, people management, etc. Level 3 gives the exact head start into the industry.
- You’ve had a gap in professional education
If you haven’t formally studied in several years, Level 3 helps you:
– Get your head back into the education space.
– Understand CIPD’s assessment approach.
– Build confidence and essential workplace skills.
Which CIPD Level Is Right for You?
Choose Level 3 if you:
- Are new to HR with no relevant experience.
- Need to develop study skills and confidence.
- Are currently in or targeting HR support roles.
- Are exploring whether HR is the right career for you.
- Prefer a more paced introduction to professional study.
- Want to build foundational knowledge before progressing.
Choose Level 5 if you:
- Are ready for intermediate-level content.
- Have some HR or related work experience.
- Want to progress quickly to managerial roles like HR Manager, HR Advisor etc.
- Have strong academic or professional writing skills.
- You’ve already completed Level 3 and are ready to advance.
There is absolutely no wrong answer here.
Both paths are equally important, and you must choose the one that suits you best.
Employer Recognition and Value
How Employers View Level 3:
- Suitable for support roles.
- Positive for career starters.
- Demonstrates commitment to an HR career.
How Employers View Level 5:
- Shows readiness for advisory roles.
- Demonstrates professional competence.
- Often, a prerequisite for HR roles beyond entry-level.
Many organisations have clear policies on the qualifications required for some roles.
For example, HR Advisor roles might require a CIPD Level 5, and HR Assistants may need a CIPD Level 3. Understanding this helps you choose your career journey accordingly.
Next Steps To Take
Whatever path you decide to take, make sure you follow these steps to be sure of your decision:
- Research Thoroughly
Look up CIPD approved providers and take a free trial before signing up with anyone.
Read student reviews on their website and on Trustpilot to have a general idea of the learning experience.
With HRC Online, you get a 14-day free trial to decide if we’re the right fit for you before you commit.
2. Review Your Readiness
There is absolutely no wrong path when it comes to choosing your CIPD qualification. You need to be honest about your experience level and your capacity to study to choose a level that best fits your life and your own pace of learning.
You can always speak with providers about which level suits you based on your career goals.
3. Plan Your Investment
Research the course and membership fees for the qualification and budget your investment accordingly. You can also consider employer funding options and talk to your employer to see if they’re willing to pay for your qualification.
At HRC Online, we offer flexible payment plans, so there’s absolutely nothing that’s going to stop you from attaining the qualification.
Final Thoughts
Your HR career journey is uniquely yours, don’t let comparison between your colleagues or unrealistic professional expectations take that away from you.
The destination will be the same regardless of whether you take the direct route to CIPD Level 5 or build your foundations first by taking the CIPD Level 3.
To take either of the qualifications you need to be a CIPD member first.
If you still need some clarity on which qualification is the right fit for you, we’re always happy to help.
Get in touch!
