Membership Frequently Asked Questions

First, you’ll need to create an account. Once registered, you can apply for membership by selecting the grade that best suits you and following the application process. Not sure which grade is right for you? Try our grade finder activity to help identify the most suitable option. 

Not at all. Our Affiliate grade requires no formal qualifications, so you can start accessing CIWM membership benefits straight away. 

You can also work towards becoming a Chartered Resource & Waste Manager through a range of routes. Visit our Chartered page to explore the options available. 

Affiliate applications take less than five minutes to complete. 

If you’re applying for a professional grade (Associate, Technical, Chartered or Fellow), you’ll need to submit supporting documentation. The process is still quick and straightforward, and our Membership Team is on hand to help if you have any questions. 

You can also join as an Affiliate first and upgrade to a professional grade later, giving you immediate access to CIWM benefits. 

Yes. Our Student membership is free for the duration of your course. 

This depends on your membership grade. You may need to upload: 

  • Relevant certificates
  • A supporting statement
  • Your CV
  • Two sponsors to support your application  

Student and Affiliate applications are approved automatically, and payment can be made online immediately. 

For our professional grades, once your application has been reviewed and approved, we’ll send you an invoice for your membership fees. 

After payment is received, you’ll get a welcome email and a membership certificate. You can then begin enjoying your CIWM membership benefits straight away. 

Log in to your Member Dashboard, go to My Account, and select the appropriate grade. Depending on your upgrade, you may need to upload supporting documents such as certificates, a CV, a supporting statement, and a learning and development record. 

As a Chartered member, you agree to uphold the CIWM Charter and the Code of Professional Conduct. You are also required to complete and maintain a record of 30 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) each year. This demonstrates your commitment to professional standards and staying current with sector developments. Regular engagement with CIWM activities and resources can help you easily achieve your CPD requirements. 

Absolutely. Our Professional Development area provides access to training courses, structured learning opportunities, and our CPD scheme to support your career progression. 

Yes, reinstatement is possible for all grades. 

For former Chartered or Fellow members, reinstatement may depend on the time elapsed, a review of your current CV, and evidence of ongoing CPD. You may also be asked to attend a further professional interview. 

Yes. You can complete a Direct Debit mandate provided with your invoice and choose to pay annually, quarterly, or monthly. 

As payment dates are set throughout the year, instalments are split equally across the remaining period of your membership year. 

The membership year runs from 1 January to 31 December. Fees are calculated on a pro-rata basis depending on when you join, covering the period from your start date to the end of the calendar year. 

Yes. Receipts are automatically emailed when payment is received. You can also download copies at any time via My Account > Subscriptions. 

If you personally pay for your CIWM membership, you may be eligible to claim tax relief of up to 40% (subject to HMRC eligibility criteria).