The CIOB Professional Review is the final and most critical step for candidates pursuing Chartered Membership (MCIOB) with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). It is designed to assess whether a construction professional has the competence, ethics, and professionalism required to be recognised as a chartered member of the global construction body.

Let’s explore exactly what the CIOB Professional Review is, who it's for, how it works, and what you need to succeed.

What Is the CIOB Professional Review?

The Professional Review is a structured assessment that evaluates your professional experience, knowledge, and ethical conduct in relation to seven core competencies defined by the CIOB.

This process ensures you are:

• Capable of working at a Chartered level in the built environment

• Committed to ongoing professional development

• Aware of your legal and ethical responsibilities in the industry

• Practising safely, sustainably, and responsibly

Successful completion earns you the right to use the title MCIOB (Member of the Chartered Institute of Building), a globally recognised mark of quality and professional status.

Who Can Apply for the CIOB Professional Review?

You are eligible if:

• You are a current member of CIOB (Associate or Applicant grade)

• You have relevant academic qualifications (e.g., a degree, HND, NVQ Level 6, or equivalent)

• You have at least 3–5 years of experience in a responsible role in construction or a related field

• You are ready to demonstrate your competence across the required areas

What Does the Professional Review Assess?

The CIOB assesses your skills and behaviours against seven core competencies:

1. Occupational Competence – Your technical expertise in your field

2. Management Competence – Your ability to manage people, resources, and systems

3. Commitment to Professionalism – Your ethical standards and understanding of codes of conduct

4. Health, Safety, and Welfare – Your management of safety and risk

5. Environment and Sustainability – Your awareness and implementation of sustainable practices

6. Communication and Decision-Making – Your leadership, collaboration, and reporting skills

7. Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Your efforts to maintain and improve your knowledge

How Does the CIOB Professional Review Process Work?

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:

1. Download the Professional Review Guidance Pack

Start by downloading the latest CIOB Professional Review Guide from the official CIOB website. It provides:

• Competency definitions

• Example formats

• Writing tips

• Submission instructions

2. Prepare Your Competence Report

You must submit a written Competence Report (approx. 2,000–3,000 words) demonstrating how you meet each of the seven competencies.

Each section should include:

• A brief context of your role or project

• The challenges faced and your actions

• The outcomes achieved

• Reflections and learning

Use first-person language (e.g., “I managed...”, “I implemented...”) and focus on your individual contributions, not your team's.

3. Submit Supporting Documents

Along with your report, you’ll submit:

• A current CV

• A Continuing Professional Development (CPD) record covering the last 3 years

• Any required references or qualifications, if applicable

4. CIOB Review and Clarification (if needed)

After submission:

• Your application is reviewed by a CIOB-appointed assessor

• You may be contacted for clarification or asked to expand on specific areas

• In some cases, a short interview may be scheduled (usually virtual)

 5. Receive Your Result

After assessment, you will receive one of the following outcomes:

• Approved – You become an MCIOB

• Deferred – More information required – You’ll be asked to resubmit or provide additional details

• Not yet ready – You’ll receive feedback and guidance for future submission

Tips for a Successful CIOB Professional Review

•  Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for clarity

•  Align your experience with each competency clearly

•  Be honest, specific, and professional in tone

•  Include measurable outcomes (e.g., budgets, timelines, safety stats)

•  Keep formatting consistent and submit all required documents

Benefits of Passing the CIOB Professional Review

•  Earn the MCIOB designation – respected worldwide

•  Boost your credibility for management and leadership roles

•  Access exclusive CPD events, industry journals, and networking groups

•  Improve your employability and salary prospects

•  Enhance your eligibility for government and international projects

In Summary

The CIOB Professional Review is your gateway to becoming a Chartered professional in the construction industry. It is a robust and respected process that reflects your real-world expertise, commitment to development, and ability to work to the highest professional standards.

👉 If you're serious about advancing your construction career, preparing thoroughly for the CIOB Membership is one of the best investments you can make.