The CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice is an entry-level qualification for those starting careers in Human Resources or Learning and Development. Training providers across the UK offer various flexible payment options to make the qualification more accessible.
Major Training Providers Comparison
The following table compares CIPD Level 3 payment options from leading UK training providers:
| Provider | Price Range | Monthly Payment | Payment Term | Deposit |
| VQ Solutions | £1,152 | From £100/month | Interest-free | Low deposit |
| Blackburn College | £1,295 | Contact for details | Payment plan available | N/A |
| Avado Learning | £1,295 – £3,195 | £162 – £399/month | 8 months interest-free | Contact for details |
| MOL Learn | Contact for pricing | From £266/month | Interest-free | Low deposit |
| ICS Learn | Contact for pricing | Interest-free monthly installments | 0% interest | Low deposit |
| DPG Learn | £1,750 – £2,500 | Contact for details | Up to 15 months interest-free | Low deposit |
| Reed Learning | Contact for pricing | Personalized payment plan | Interest-free | Contact for details |
| We Are HR | Contact for pricing | Interest-free payment plans | Interest-free | £99 |
Note: Prices shown are indicative and subject to change. Contact providers directly for current pricing and detailed package information.
Avado Learning Package Options
As one of the most transparent providers, Avado offers three distinct package tiers. Here’s how they compare:
| Package Type | Full Price | Monthly Payment (8 months) | Best For |
| Lite Package | £1,295 | £162/month | Self-directed learners |
| Professional Package | £2,095 | £262/month | Most popular choice |
| Plus Package | £3,195 | £399/month | Premium support seekers |
All Avado packages include interest-free payment plans over 8 months with price match guarantee available.
Typical Course Costs
CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate typically costs between £1,152 and £3,195 across different providers and package types. The most affordable option currently available is VQ Solutions at £1,152, while premium packages with additional support can reach up to £3,195. Most providers offer courses in the £1,750 to £2,500 range.
Payment Plan Options
Most CIPD training providers offer interest-free monthly payment plans to help spread the cost:
Standard Payment Terms:
8-month interest-free payment plans are the most common offering, with monthly payments ranging from £100 to £399 depending on the package selected and provider chosen. DPG Learn offers extended payment terms up to 15 months, providing even greater flexibility for budget-conscious learners.
Deposit Requirements
Many providers allow you to start with a small deposit rather than paying the full amount upfront. We Are HR requires a minimum deposit of £99 for Level 3 courses to secure your place, with the remainder paid through monthly installments. Other providers like VQ Solutions, ICS Learn, DPG Learn, and MOL Learn all advertise low deposit options, though specific amounts should be confirmed directly with each provider.
Notable Provider Features
VQ Solutions: Currently offers the most competitive pricing at £1,152 with payments starting from £100/month. Features a 99% pass rate and is CIPD-accredited.
Avado Learning (CIPD Platinum Centre): Offers the most transparent tiered pricing structure with three clear packages. Includes AI learning assistant (Ava), live tutor-led sessions, and price match guarantee.
DPG Learn: Provides the longest interest-free payment terms (up to 15 months) and offers both online and blended learning options with small class sizes.
ICS Learn: Leading distance learning provider with 130+ years of experience. Offers price match guarantee and 0% interest payment plans with flexible terms.
MOL Learn: CIPD Organisational Delivery Partner with courses starting from £266/month. Includes digital course textbook and personalized tutor support.
Employer Funding Options
All major providers offer direct invoicing to employers for those whose companies will sponsor their training. This allows organizations to invest in employee development without the individual needing to pay upfront. Several providers, including ICS Learn and We Are HR, also accept ELCAS (Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme) funding for armed forces members.
What’s Typically Included
Despite the varying price points, most CIPD Level 3 courses include similar core features such as online learning materials, tutor support, assignment marking by CIPD-approved assessors, and access to virtual learning environments. The main differences between pricing tiers usually relate to additional support services like one-to-one career mentoring, AI-powered learning assistants, live interactive classes versus on-demand content, and accelerator courses.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the course fees, students should budget for CIPD Student Membership, which is paid directly to CIPD as a separate annual fee. The membership costs include a one-off joining fee of £40 and an annual student membership fee currently around £98-£124 (subject to change by CIPD). This membership is required to submit assignments and receive certification.
Making Your Decision
When choosing a provider and payment plan, compare what’s included in each package, verify current pricing directly with providers, ensure the monthly payments fit comfortably within your budget over the study period (which typically takes 7-12 months for most learners), and consider whether you prefer self-paced online learning or structured live sessions. Many providers offer price match guarantees, so it’s worth requesting quotes from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment.
Note: All pricing and payment plan information is based on data available as of February 2026 and is subject to change. Always verify current pricing and terms directly with your chosen provider before enrolling.
