Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.
Find out more

Visitor Information: RPS House is closed until 10am Friday 17 January. 

Become a member
LRPS

Licentiate (LRPS) Exemption

You could be awarded a Licentiate 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 

Licentiate (LRPS)

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

  1. HNC / HND in Photography
  2. BTEC Extended Diploma Photography
  3. Photographic Foundation Degree
  4. BA Hons Degree in Photographywith a 2:2. 
  5. Photography A Level - Grade A or A* / Scottish Highers
  6. C&G Level 3 Diploma in Professional Photo Imaging 7512-03 500/6950/0
  7. C&G Level 3 Diploma in Photography 7512-03 500/8079/9
  8. C&G Level 3 Diploma in Photography and Photo Imaging 7512-03 500/6949/4
  9. Also accepted is a combination of any C&G level 3 certificates courses completed that are more or equal to the 400 Guided Learning Hours: e.g. 7511-31 Level 3 Certificate in Photo Imaging (290 GLH) or 7511-29 Level 3 Certificate in Photography and Photo Imaging (220 GLH)
  10. OCA Photography (any combination of Two Awards required at level 2 (HE5) or level 3 (HE6).

Non-academic

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

  1. If you are a current LBIPP Licentiate of the British Institute of Professional Photography
  2. If you are a current LMPA Licentiate of the Master Photographers Association

"It was an opportunity I simply couldn’t pass up. My application to The Royal Photographic Society allowed me to join a group where we all showcase our own expression and view on life through our photographs. We all share a common interest, and that was something I wanted to be a part of."
- Harry Beresford LRPS

Looking for Associate exemptions?

Click here to find out more

ARPS Exemptions

More from past applicants...

Contact us

For help with your Licentiate exemption application please contact:

E: distinctions@rps.org
T: +44 (0)117 3164473

9am - 5pm Monday to Friday GMT.