Level 3 competencies are the most advanced—and often the most challenging—part of the RICS APC. While Levels 1 and 2 focus on knowledge and practical experience, Level 3 is all about giving well-reasoned, professional advice to clients and stakeholders. It reflects your ability to work independently and with professional judgment—exactly what assessors want to see from a future Chartered Surveyor.
Here’s how to demonstrate Level 3 competency effectively in your APC submission and final interview.

🧑‍💼 What Is Level 3?

Level 3 requires you to show that you:
Provide independent, client-focused professional advice
Demonstrate judgment and decision-making skills
Tailor your guidance based on client objectives, risks, and constraints
It’s not enough to just do the work—you need to prove you understand the broader implications of your advice and can communicate it clearly to decision-makers.

📘 1. Use Real Client-Facing Examples

Choose examples where you:
Interacted directly with a client or stakeholder
Explained options, risks, or costs
Influenced a decision through your advice

✅ Example:
“In a commercial rent review negotiation, I advised the client on market trends, valuation assumptions, and the pros and cons of settling early vs proceeding to arbitration.”

🧠 2. Show Thought Process and Judgement

Level 3 isn’t just about the outcome—it’s about how you reached it. Assessors want to know:
What factors did you consider before advising?
How did you balance risks, regulations, or budget?
Why did you recommend a particular solution?

✅ Use phrases like:
“After evaluating… I recommended…”
“I considered X and Y before advising the client to…”
“The advice was based on [data, regulations, or strategy]…”

💬 3. Highlight Communication and Customisation

Level 3 requires excellent client communication. Mention how you:
Adapted technical language for different audiences
Provided clear, structured advice—verbally and in writing
Handled objections or conflicting stakeholder views

✅ Example:
“I prepared a briefing note summarising procurement options, tailored to a non-technical client, and presented my recommendation during a board meeting.”

📄 4. Structure Your Summary of Experience Clearly

Use a structured format (e.g., STAR: Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly demonstrate your Level 3 input. Keep it concise but detailed enough to show your involvement and outcomes.

🧾 Template example:
Situation: Client needed to appoint a contractor for a £10M office fit-out under tight deadlines
Task: Recommend the most suitable procurement strategy ensuring cost and time efficiency
Action: Evaluated single-stage vs two-stage D&B, assessed risk, and advised on contractor market conditions
Result: Client selected single-stage D&B route and successfully appointed contractor within programme and budget

🎤 5. Prepare for Follow-Up Questions in the Interview

At Level 3, you’ll be tested on the depth of your advice. Be ready to answer:
“What other options did you consider?”
“What would you do differently next time?”
“How did your advice impact the project/client?”

🔄 Practice mock interviews with a mentor or APC coach to gain confidence.

✅ Final Tips for Level 3 Success

Be specific – vague answers won’t convince assessors.
Be reflective – mention what you learned and how you improved.
Be professional – show maturity, responsibility, and awareness of client needs.

🏁 Final Thoughts
Demonstrating Level 3 competence isn’t just about showcasing what you did—it’s about proving you’re ready to act as a trusted, independent advisor. With strong real-life examples, clear structure, and thoughtful reflection, you can present yourself as a confident, client-focused professional—and secure that MRICS designation.