iCQ Level 4 Certificate in Leading the External Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice (RQF)

People leading external quality assurance, usually on behalf of an awarding organisation.

Qualification at a glance

Qualification number: 600/3449/X
Awarding organisation: iCQ Awards (iCan Qualifications Limited)
Minimum credits: 17
Guided learning hours: 100

Entry requirements and assessment access

The specification places this route in the 19+ age category. A suitable external quality assurance arrangement and access to centres and a team are needed. Enrolment does not guarantee appointment by an awarding organisation.

What you will learn

Understand external monitoring and assessment risk
Evaluate centre assessment and quality assurance practice
Plan, allocate and monitor the work of an EQA team

Qualification structure and unit choices

Structure: To achieve this qualification all three mandatory units must be completed to attain 17 credits

Mandatory units form the core. Optional units, where available, are selected with your assessor to match your role and the rules of combination; the full optional list is not a requirement to complete every unit.

Group A Mandatory Units
Unit code	Unit title	Level	Credits
F/601/5322	Understanding the principles and practices of externally assuring the quality of assessment	4	6
H/600/9674	Plan, allocate and monitor work in own area of responsibility	4	5
J/601/5323	Externally assure the quality of assessment	4	6

How you are assessed

Portfolio of authentic external quality assurance practice, monitoring reports, team planning and knowledge evidence.

Your assessor records decisions against the unit criteria. All required outcomes must be achieved; assessment evidence is reviewed through internal and awarding-body quality assurance. Prior learning may be considered where permitted and supported by valid evidence.

Delivery and learner support

MCA offers tutor-supported online and blended learning. Your agreed study plan sets the tutorial format, workplace visits or teaching observations, independent study and review arrangements. Practical assessment cannot be replaced by online study alone.

Discuss accessibility needs, reasonable adjustments and learning support with MCA at the application stage.

Duration, start dates and fees

Start dates, fees, payment options and the planned completion period are confirmed in writing before enrolment. Qualification learning hours describe the study requirement; they are not a promise of a fixed calendar duration. Ask MCA for a personalised quotation and timetable.

Progression

Develop external quality assurance leadership, subject to the requirements of the appointing organisation.

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Unit titles, credits and qualification structure checked against the published iCQ specification on 3 October 2026. This MCA outline explains the learner journey; the registered assessment plan controls the exact unit selection and assessment criteria.