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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 2019) 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:
Individuals who are not members have the opportunity to apply for an exemption. Upon successfully achieving the Distinction, they will be invited to join the Society before receiving the award.

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.