Is CIPD Level 5 Hard? What to Expect and How to Prepare

Study Type	Weekly Commitment
Part-time (flexible)	6-8 hours
Structured (weekly tutor-led)	8-10 hours
Fast-track or intensive	12+ hours

 

If you're working full-time, 8 hours a week is manageable, but only if you stay consistent. That might mean giving up a couple of evenings or carving out a weekend morning. The real challenge is not falling behind. Once you’re off-track, it’s hard to catch up, especially if your provider sets deadlines for each assignment. 

Learn more: CIPD Qualification Levels Explained 

Are the assignments hard? 

Assignments are where most people struggle, not because the content is too complex, but because: 

1. They’re academic-style: You’ll need to reference sources, follow Harvard style, and write formally. 

2. They’re word count-limited: You often have to explain complex ideas in 2,000-3,000 words, so structure matters. 

3. You’re juggling work/life: You might be writing an assignment on reward strategy while your day job is dealing with a recruitment crisis. 

Each assignment typically involves: 

• A written report or case study 

• Between 2,500 and 3,500 words 

• Referencing academic sources and CIPD research 

• Practical application to real-world HR/L&D settings 

If you haven’t written academically in a while, it takes getting used to. You’ll need to learn how to avoid vague statements, back up your points with evidence, and reflect on your own professional practice. 

What makes Level 5 feel hard (and how to overcome it) 

Here are the real reasons people struggle with CIPD Level 5 and how to stay on top of them. 

1. You underestimate the time commitment 

The fix: Block your calendar like it’s a work meeting. Don’t “fit it in when you can” as that never works. Protect your study time and make it a routine. 

2. You leave assignments until the last minute 

The fix: Start early. Outline the assignment structure as soon as you get the brief, then write in small sections. 

3. You try to wing it without reading 

The fix: Skimming is fine for some parts, but the assessors want to see critical thinking. That means reading CIPD factsheets, articles, or academic journals and referencing them properly. 

4. You’re not clear on what a “good” answer looks like 

The fix: Ask your tutor or training provider for past examples or marking criteria. Practice planning short answers based on real questions. 

How to prepare before you start 

Be honest about your schedule 

Before you enrol, take a real look at your work, home, and social life. Do you have 6–8 hours per week to commit, week after week? If not, consider spacing your modules out. 

Sharpen your academic writing skills 

If it’s been years since you wrote an essay, do a refresher on: 

• Harvard referencing 

• How to structure an argument 

• How to use research to support a point 

Many training providers offer free or low-cost study skills sessions. Use them. 

Build your HR/L&D reading habits 

Start reading the CIPD Knowledge Hub weekly. Not only will this help you with assignments, but it trains your brain to think critically about trends, evidence, and theory. 

Learn more: What’s the Best HR Course for You? 

Is studying CIPD Level 5 worth it? 

Absolutely, but only if you’re ready to do the work. 

CIPD Level 5 opens doors. It gives you the credibility to apply for HR Advisor, L&D Business Partner, or even HR Manager roles. It proves you can think strategically, not just execute tasks. Employers notice it. But it’s not a free pass. You have to earn it. 

You’ll come out stronger in areas like: 

• Strategic thinking 

• Data-driven decision-making 

• Understanding HR's impact on business outcomes 

• Writing with authority and clarity 

Many learners say they grow more confident at work because they finally understand why things are done a certain way, not just how. 

Ready to take the next step in your HR or L&D career? 

Whether you're aiming for a promotion, a career pivot, or simply want to sharpen your skills, CIPD Level 5 can be the launchpad. Yes, it’s a challenge, but it’s one that pays off with confidence, credibility, and career progression. 

MOL Learn is one of the UK's leading CIPD course providers trusted by thousands of professionals. With expert tutors, flexible study options, and practical resources, MOL helps you fit study around real life. Explore our Level 5 CIPD HR or Level 5 CIPD L&D courses and enrol today.