There are two routes to apply for an advanced practice digital badge: the accreditation route and the ePortfolio (supported) route. Please read the information below and follow the route that applies to you.
Accreditation route
Use this route if you have successfully completed a master’s-level advanced practice course accredited by the Centre for Advancing Practice.
Evidence you must upload
- A complete copy of your master’s certificate, including all pages and both sides where applicable.
- A complete copy of your transcript, including all pages where applicable.
- Additional evidence if, for example, your name has changed or if you have completed a top-up degree.
Important: Please upload all relevant details and documents with your application. We cannot approve an application without the required evidence. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Before submitting your application, check that every page is included, each document is clear and readable, and the details on your evidence match the details in your application.
When you have all the required evidence, apply for your digital badge.
Apply for your digital badgeePortfolio route
The ePortfolio route has a separate application process. It is for eligible practitioners who demonstrate that they meet the required advanced practice capabilities through an ePortfolio.
Read the ePortfolio route guidance before starting your application. The guidance explains the eligibility requirements, evidence needed and how to apply.
ePortfolio RouteClaim and download your digital badge
You can claim a digital badge once you have successfully completed one of the recognition routes and your application has been approved.
Which badge can you claim?
- ‘Advanced’ – Recognised Completion of an Advanced Practice Education Programme: for applicants who have successfully graduated from a programme accredited by the Centre for Advancing Practice.
- ‘Advanced’ – Recognised Educational and Experiential Equivalence in Advanced Practice Training: for applicants who have successfully completed the ePortfolio (supported) Route.
If you have already applied and your application has been completed and approved, your badge will be ready to claim.
How to claim your badge
- Log in to your profile on the Centre for Advancing Practice Portal.
- Select Applications and Reports.
- Open your completed application. Badges are only available for completed applications.
- Select Claim Badge.
- Select Download badge.
You can also watch our short videos explaining how to claim your digital badge and how to claim your digital certificate.
- Log into your profile on the Centre for Advancing Practice Portal.
- Click on Applications and Reports
- Click on your completed application (badges are only available for completed applications)
- Click on Claim Badge
- Click on Download badge
You can also watch our short video which explains how to claim your digital badge and our video on how to claim your digital certificate.
Step by Step Guides
The NHS Learning Hub hosts the Centre for Advancing Practice Portal guidance.
You will need an account at access. If you do not have an account, you can create one. When creating an account you will be asked to enter basic information on your role and place of work.