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ARPS

Associate (ARPS) Exemption

You could be awarded an Associate distinction without having to submit a portfolio!

If you've completed any of the following academic courses in the last 5 years (January 1st 2018) you can apply!

Download a copy of the exemption application form, fill it in and send it back to us along with photocopies of all relevant certificates. Please send digital copies to distinctions@rps.org  

The accompanying evidence must state your full name, the award gained, date gained and place of study. (All academic courses must be governed by a UK awarding body).

All Exemption applications will be put forward on the first working day of each month. Applicants will be notified of the outcome soon after this date.

Please note: all applicants must be a member of the RPS before applying. Please join online or contact the membership department. 

Successful Applicants will then receive a letter of confirmation, certificate and lapel badge.

Prices for exemption are: 

Licentiate: £42.50
Associate: £60.00 

Associate (ARPS)

The only academic courses we recognise for Associate exemption are as follows:

  1. BA Hons Degree in Photography with 2:1 or above
  2. Combined BA (Hons.) Degree (80% Photography) with 2:1 or above
  3. MA in Photography
  4. MA in Photography History
  5. MFA in Photography

Non-academic

Exemption for the Associate distinction is also available if any of the following apply to you. 

  1. If you are a current ABIPP Associate of the British Institute of Professional Photography
  2. If you are a current FBIPP Fellowship of the British Institute of Professional Photography
  3. If you are a current AMPA Associate of the Master Photographers Association
  4. If you are a current FMPA Fellowship of the Master Photographers Association

"I see the ARPS as the next step in my career. When you get your degree it seems quite final, and as a freelance photographer you can feel as if you're out there by yourself. But being part of the Society and having my Distinction means I feel part of something that's ongoing." 
-Ed Smith ARPS

Looking for Licentiate exemptions?

Click here to find out more

LRPS Exemptions

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Contact us

For help with your Associate exemption application please contact:

E: distinctions@rps.org
T: +44 (0)117 3164472

9am - 5pm Monday to Friday GMT.