The RICS APC (Assessment of Professional Competence) may seem like a solo challenge—but in reality, it’s a collaborative journey supported by key professionals who guide, assess, and encourage you along the way. Understanding who’s involved in your APC process can help you make the most of their support and increase your chances of success.

Here’s a full look at everyone involved in your APC process — including those you may not have considered yet.

👤 1. You – The Candidate

First and foremost, the most critical person in your APC journey is you. You are responsible for:
Driving your progress and setting goals
Tracking your CPD and experience
Preparing and submitting accurate documentation
Studying, reflecting, and staying proactive
Asking for help when needed

Tip: Treat your APC like a professional project — stay organized, take ownership, and set weekly goals to stay on track.

👨‍🏫 2. Your APC Counsellor

Your counsellor is one of the most important figures in your APC journey. They must be MRICS (or FRICS) qualified professional, ideally within your company, who:
Helps you select the right pathway
Reviews your competencies and experience
Signs off your final submission documents
Prepares you for your final interview

Tip: Meet with your counsellor regularly and ask for honest feedback throughout your training.

🧑‍💼 3. Your Line Manager or Supervisor

While not always your counsellor, your line manager plays a critical role in:
Assigning you relevant projects
Supporting your development in specific competencies
Offering feedback on your performance
Validating your experience log or diary
They help ensure your work aligns with the requirements of your chosen pathway.

Tip: Share your APC pathway and goals early, so they can help align your tasks accordingly.

🧠 4. Other APC Candidates – Your Peer Network

Fellow candidates can be a valuable part of your support system. Whether at work or through online forums, peer collaboration can help you:
Share study resources and templates
Practice mock interviews and case study presentations
Clarify confusing competency expectations
Stay motivated and accountable

Tip: Form a weekly or biweekly study group, even virtually. Teaching and discussing with peers helps reinforce your own understanding.


🧑‍🏫 5. APC Mentors or Coaches (Optional)
External mentors, often chartered professionals or APC trainers, can offer deep insight. They can:
Review your submission drafts
Run full mock interviews with feedback
Sharing insider tips on what assessors look for

Tip: If your firm doesn’t offer one, look into online APC mentoring services or RICS networking events.

👨‍⚖️ 6. APC Assessors
These are MRICS professionals selected by RICS to assess your final submission and interview. You’ll meet a panel of 2–3 assessors during your APC interview. They:
Review your case study and documentation
Ask competency-based questions
Decide if you meet the required standard for chartership
Make the final pass/fail decision

Tip: Practice presenting clearly, answer confidently, and use real examples—they want to see that you’re ready for independent practice.

🏛️ 7. RICS Support Team

The RICS admin team manages your application, assessment scheduling, ethics module access, and online submissions. They:
Provide deadlines and reminders
Offer access to key documents
Resolve administrative queries
Access to learning resources and ethics modules
Pathway documentation and submission platforms

Tip: Regularly check the RICS Portal and emails to avoid missing important updates.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Although the APC is your personal challenge, it’s supported by a powerful ecosystem of people who want to see you succeed. From counsellors and assessors to study buddies and mentors—you’re never alone.