Introduction of New Competence Assessment Contract
The Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) is set to implement a new contract for its competence assessment service following a recent tender exercise. This initiative aims to enhance the support provided to advisers and candidates, while simultaneously reinforcing the assurance of competence and improving the overall assessment experience.
Key Enhancements to the Assessment Process
Several significant modifications are being introduced to the competence assessment process. These changes include:
- Assessment questions will now be aligned with revised syllabuses, ensuring a more accurate reflection of the essential knowledge, skills, and competencies required for practice.
- An enriched assessment format will incorporate an additional component that focuses on the Code of Standards, ethics, and professional behaviours, acknowledging the importance of ethical conduct alongside technical proficiency.
- The competence assessment will be positioned at the outset of the adviser application journey.
- Increased frequency of assessment opportunities will be provided, offering candidates greater flexibility and reducing waiting times.
- A new assessment platform will be introduced, aimed at delivering an improved user experience for candidates.
- The existing resource book will be replaced by access to approved whitelisted websites during the assessment process.
Streamlined Application Journey for Candidates
Moving forward, candidates aspiring to join an IAA-regulated organisation as advisers must first complete and pass the competence assessment before their application can be submitted. For those intending to establish their own immigration advice organisation, passing the competence assessment will also be a prerequisite for submitting a regulation application.
This revised framework will facilitate a clearer and more efficient application journey, allowing individuals to demonstrate their competence prior to committing time and resources to the entire application process. Candidates who successfully navigate the assessment will be better equipped to advance through the registration process with confidence. The intentional restructuring of the process aims to eliminate delays, provide earlier clarity for candidates and organisations, and enhance the overall experience for applicants.
Timelines for Implementation
The online competence assessment has been temporarily suspended during the implementation of these new arrangements. Subject to the completion of necessary preparations and several external dependencies, assessments are expected to recommence in November 2026. Specific details regarding upcoming assessment dates and the timeline for changes to the application journey will be made available on the IAA website as soon as they are confirmed.
Recognising the significance of this information for advisers, candidates, and organisations throughout the sector, the IAA is prioritising the finalisation of arrangements and aims to communicate updates promptly.
Preparation for Candidates
Candidates intending to undertake Level 1, Level 2, and/or Level 3 assessments are encouraged to review the new syllabuses and familiarise themselves with the revised assessment arrangements, as all assessments will be conducted under the new framework upon resumption. Those who have previously submitted an application will receive direct communication regarding their available options.
Resources and Support Available
The new syllabuses, along with summaries of the key changes, have been published on the IAA website to clarify the updates and assist candidates in preparing for the revised assessment arrangements.
A series of webinars will be organised to elucidate the new process and address any queries, with dates and registration information to be announced shortly.
Additional supporting information has been released to aid advisers and candidates in understanding the changes and navigating the new arrangements effectively.
Further details, including information on upcoming assessment dates, will be shared in the near future.