Quality Assurance Scheme (QAS)

The quality standard

 

The IFoA’s Quality Assurance Scheme offers accreditation and recognition to organisations that have committed to the highest quality standards.

It provides an outcomes-based framework that helps foster and maintain a culture of quality and continuous improvement, and which demonstrates a commitment to excellence on the part of the holder.

Why choose QAS accreditation?

Showcase your organisation’s commitment to excellence and gain 
recognition across the actuarial profession through:

  • Your commitment to quality: Accreditation confirms your organisation has robust policies and procedures embedded in its culture to support high-quality actuarial work.
  • Competitive advantage: Show potential clients and employees that you stand above the competition, attracting new business and enhancing your reputation as an employer of choice.
  • Knowledge sharing: As part of a network of accredited organisations you will be able to exchange insights and share knowledge and best practice with peers, helping you to continuously improve.
  • Flexible CPD options: Accredited organisations can opt into the QAS CPD Scheme, allowing employees exemption from IFoA’s individual CPD requirements while still maintaining high professional development standards.

How it works

  1. Independent assessment: Your organisation undergoes an external review of policies and procedures, with tailored recommendations for improvement.
  2. Expert advice: Guidance from subject matter specialists who will help drive your organisation’s development forward.
  3. Ongoing support: A dedicated IFoA contact will support you throughout the process and beyond, including peer-to-peer learning and insight sharing with other QAS organisations.

FAQs

Who can apply?

Any organisation or a clearly defined part of an organisation that employs IFoA members carrying out actuarial work.

 

How long does it take?

Typically around three months, depending on assessment team availability and the timing of the quarterly QAS Committee meeting.

 

How is the decision made?

The QAS Committee, acting on behalf of the Regulatory Board, reviews your application and assessment report. The committee includes lay members and volunteers from diverse industries and regions.

 

What does it cost?

An annual fee is based on the annual turnover of your organisation and the number of IFoA members.

View QAS fees and criteria

 

What is the QAS CPD Scheme?

The QAS CPD Scheme is a fully outcomes-focused approach to CPD for organisations (or parts of organisations) accredited under the QAS. 

Members employed by a QAS-accredited organisation who opt into the QAS CPD scheme will not be required to comply with the individual requirements of IFoA’s CPD Scheme. 

They are also exempt from additional CPD requirements applying under the IFoA’s Practising Certificate Scheme. 

Read more about QAS CPD Scheme

Next steps: How to gain QAS accreditation

  1. Download QAS handbook (PDF, 1 MB) and review APS QA1 standards
  2. Align your organisation’s policies and procedures with QAS outcomes
  3. Complete the application form (select ‘apply for accreditation’ below)
  4. Email your form to qas@actuaries.org.uk
  5. Pay the annual fee (invoice issued upon application)
  6. Take part in an independent assessment, including a remote review and staff interviews
  7. The QAS Committee reviews your application and determines the outcome
Related resources

QAS fees and criteria

Find out more about our fee bands for your organisation.
QAS fees

QAS accredited organisations

Organisations, or parts of organisations, that hold our QAS accreditation.
See organisations

SQAR resources

Resources for Senior Quality Representation (SQAR)
See resources

QAS Committee

The QAS Committee is responsible for the IFoA’s Quality Assurance Scheme accreditations.
QAS Committee

QAS Blog series

Read how organisations become part of the IFoA's Quality Assurance Scheme
Read the series

Contact details

Quality Assurance Scheme

QAS Team, Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, Spaces, 1 Lochrin Square, 92-94 Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 9QA

Email team