Applying for RCN accreditation

You can apply online or by downloading an application form and returning it by email or post. 

Some links on this page are to PDF files - see how to access PDF files.

Categories of accreditation

There are two categories of application:

  • events and courses - including fast-track application for shorter conferences, study days, workshops and meetings
  • resources and e-learning - for learning packs, USB sticks, DVDs, elearning packages etc.

Duration of accreditation

Accreditation for events and courses can be granted for either one occurrence (for example, a one day conference) or for a year for multiple events. This can then be renewed for a further two years, totalling three years in all. Accreditation for resources is granted for three years. 

Online promotion

All learning and training initiatives that receive RCN accreditation can be promoted on our website free of charge. You will be offered this opportunity once you have received confirmation of accreditation. 

Before you apply for accreditation

Please be aware that the following areas are not being considered at present for accreditation:

  • manual handling
  • control and restraint
  • the use of dermal fillers and medical aesthetics
  • applications for dissemination within the UK that do not comply with recognised UK practice and/or language style.

Accreditation of conferences, study days, workshops, meetings and courses

Please allow four weeks for the accreditation process. This may take longer if further information is required from applicants. 

Please refer to the Guidance notes (PDF 142KB) before submitting your application.

You can apply online at the following links:   

Important notice: We are unable to save online applications part-way through.  If you are applying online please ensure you have all of the relevant information to hand. Details of all of the information you will need to complete the online application can be found on the Word version of the application form below. Once we have received your application you will be sent an immediate acknowledgement with a copy of your application form.

Or download the relevant application form to be completed and returned, along with any supporting documents, by email or post:

Our contact details

Accreditation of resources and e-learning

Applications should be submitted at draft stage if possible. Please allow up to three months for processing when submitting large resources. 

Please refer to the Guidance notes (PDF 142KB) before submitting your application.

Apply online using the following link:

Important notice: We are unable to save online applications part-way through.  If you are applying online please ensure you have all of the relevant information to hand.  Details of all of the information you will need to complete the online application can be found on the Word version of the application forms below.  Once we have received your application you will be sent an immediate acknowledgement with a copy of your application form.

Or download the following application form to be completed and returned, along with any supporting documents, by email or post:

Our contact details

Fees

Fees for RCN accreditation vary depending on the type of initiative, with prices starting from £250 for not-for-profit organisations and £500 for commercial organisations. Any events run in conjunction with the RCN are offered accreditation at a 20 per cent discount. See fee sheet (PDF 25KB)

Useful information

Please find below the RCN code of practice, sample forms that may be distributed to delegates and information about paying by credit and debit card.

Not sure which application?

Please contact us if you have any questions about the application process.  If your training does not fit neatly into an existing category we would be happy to talk through your specific requirements.

Accreditation for nurse practitioner programmes

The RCN has been the leader in establishing the competences for advanced nurse practitioner practice and developing standards for programmes of preparation for advanced nurse practitioners.

RCN accreditation is available to higher education institutions providing advanced nurse practitioner education and under this model; students will be graduates of an RCN accredited advanced nurse practitioner programme.

Please contact us if you have any questions about the nurse practitioner programme accreditation