CIPD Level 3 vs Level 5 vs Level 7: Which One Should You Choose?

If you're wondering which CIPD qualification is right for you (CIPD Level 3, Level 5, or Level 7) you’re in the right place!  

In this handy guide, we’ll break down the CIPD qualification levels in simple terms so you can choose the right course easily. 

What are the different CIPD levels? 

There are three main CIPD levels, and each one is designed to meet you where you are in your HR or L&D journey: 

CIPD Level 3 

CIPD Level 3 is the Foundation Certificate, which is a great choice if you’re just starting out in HR or L&D.  

It covers the basics of people management and is quite similar to A-Levels in terms of difficulty. 

CIPD Level 5 

CIPD Level 5 is the Associate Diploma, made for people who have a mid-level of experience or an HR degree (or equivalent qualification).  

This is the intermediate level, which means it’ll set you up for advisory or management roles in people practice. 

CIPD Level 7 

CIPD Level 7 is the Advanced Diploma and is designed for very experienced HR professionals or graduates.  

Level 7 is the highest CIPD qualification you can do and it’s on par with a postgraduate or master’s degree, with a big focus on strategic leadership.  

If you’ve been working in or studying HR for a long time and want to focus on higher level scenarios, Level 7 might be for you. 

Which CIPD level should you choose? 

Start here if you’re unsure which CIPD level to go for. Our table lays it all out to help you decide based on your experience and goals. 

In a nutshell: 

• New to HR? Start with CIPD Level 3 

• Some experience and want to take the next step? Choose CIPD Level 5 

• Experienced and aiming for strategy or leadership? Go for CIPD Level 7. 

You don’t necessarily have to do them in order, just pick the level that suits your experience and where you want to go next, then get in touch with us here at MOL. 

We’ll talk you through your options and help you apply for the right CIPD level. 

Is CIPD worth it in 2025-2026? 

Yes, CIPD qualifications are a fantastic investment for your career in 2025 and 2026. 

Here’s why: 

More jobs ask for it 

Between March 2022 and February 2023, a CIPD qualification was the most commonly requested certification in HR job postings. Think big names like Microsoft, Network Rail and BMW. 

Worth an average of 12% more 

Lightcast™ data shows that HR professionals with a CIPD qualification in the UK earn about 12% more than those without. That holds across all levels of CIPD. 

CIPD-required roles pay more 

Jobs that ask for a CIPD as a requirement offer roughly £4,400 more in pay than equivalent roles that don’t. 

Earning boost at any level 

The CIPD reports that HR admin-level roles requesting a CIPD qualification pay up to £5,600 (24%) more than those that don’t. 

Higher-level impact too 

For HR manager-level roles asking for Chartered CIPD membership, salaries can be up to £17,200 more than similar roles without that requirement. 

If you're working towards a HR career with better pay, better roles and clear recognition, a CIPD qualification is still very much worth it in 2025/26! 

Why choose MOL for your CIPD qualification? 

At MOL, we make it easy for you to get your CIPD qualification.  

You can study in a way that suits you, with flexible options and support from expert tutors.  

Our pass rate is 99.5%, so almost all our learners pass their course first time. We’ve got everything you need like books, live lessons and online resources, all included in the price.  

We also have CIPD Platinum status, which means our training meets the highest standards. 

If you’re ready to make the best move for your career, explore our CIPD courses today or get in touch to find out how we can help you get started.  

We’ll meet you where you are and help you get to where you want to be.