Quality Assurance Scheme (QAS)

The employer quality standard for IFoA members

 

The QAS is a voluntary accreditation scheme for organisations that demonstrate a commitment to meeting the highest quality standards. It provides organisations with an outcomes-based framework to proactively encourage a culture of continuous improvement.

 

Why gain QAS accreditation?

The QAS mark is a clear signal of your organisation’s commitment to the highest standards.

Benefits include:

  • a dedicated IFoA contact
  • an independent, external assessment of policies and procedures
  • the opportunity to learn and share best practice across the QAS network
  • the option to join the QAS CPD Scheme and exempt employees from the IFoA’s individual CPD requirements

FAQs

 

Who can apply for accreditation?

Any organisation, or identifiable part of an organisation, that employs IFoA members carrying out actuarial work can apply.

 

How long is the process?

The process from start to finish usually takes about four months. This depends on the availability of the assessment team and timing of the quarterly QAS Committee meeting.

 

How is the decision made?

The application form and assessment report are reviewed by the QAS Committee, who determine the outcome of the application. The committee acts on behalf of the Regulatory Board and is made up of lay people and a balanced representation of volunteer members from different industries and countries where the QAS operates.

 

Is there a cost?

There is an annual fee, which is dependent on the number of members in your organisation. See: Quality Assurance Scheme fees and criteria

 

How do I maintain accreditation?

Every year, organisations need to complete and submit an annual return and pay an annual fee. There’s an interim assessment in year three or four*. And there is a re-accreditation with full re-assessment at the end of year six.

How to gain QAS accreditation

  • Read the QAS handbook (PDF, 1 MB) and familiarise yourself with APS QA1, which sets out the standards for the QAS.
  • Review your organisation’s policies and procedures to ensure they align with the QAS outcomes.
  • Complete the application form.
  • Email your completed from to qas@actuaries.org.uk.
  • Once your application is received, we will issue an invoice for the annual fee and arrange an assessment.
  • An independent team will conduct the assessment, which includes a remote review of your policies and procedures and interviewing employees.
  • The application form and assessment report are reviewed by the QAS Committee, who determine the outcome of the application.

To learn more, see our QAS handbook (PDF, 1 MB).

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

Contact details

Quality Assurance Scheme

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

Email team