Conditions of Registration 2026/27 (Apprentices)
In March 2026, The Open University published the Conditions of Registration (Apprentices) 2026/27.
There are some changes from the previous version of this policy (Conditions of Registration (Apprentices) 2025/26). These are:
- Introduction updated to clarify that in this document you will be referred to as an Apprentice.
- Clause B1.3 updated to reflect possible additional costs of residential schools.
- New Clause B1.4 added to highlight possible additional fees if you have to attend an exam at a location that is not one of our established examination centres.
- New Clause B1.5 added to set out the potential cost implications of completing supervised assessments.
- Clause C.1.1b updated to provide clarity around copyright ownership and expectations.
- Clause C.1.1.f updated to clarify the requirement for under 18 learners to undertake Functional Skills if necessary evidence not provided.
- Clause C1.2a amended to remove duplicated content around bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct.
- New Clause C3.5 added on supervised assessments. Link to further information included.
- New Clause C3.6 added to confirm that if you are studying a module that contains an invigilated assessment provided by a third party, you will need to agree to the third party's terms of service.
- New Clause C5.5 added to confirm that cancellation charges may apply for cancelled Residential School bookings.
- Section C8 updated with a link to the new Student Reasonable Adjustments Policy.
- Clause E2.1i updated to clarify that if a break in learning is recommended by the Open University and you do not agree to this, steps may be taken to withdraw you.
- New clause E2.1m to confirm we can withdraw you if we have reasonable evidence that you have registered for reasons other than to genuinely study.
- Clause E3.1c updated to clarify that we may cancel your qualification registration if you do not have an up-to-date DBS Service clearance (or equivalent).
- Clause G1.1 updated to confirm you must provide us with an email address that is unique to you and not shared with anyone else.
- Clause K1.2 list expanded to include further examples of orders and restrictions.
- Clause K4 updated to clarify that you are required to have an up-to-date and appropriate DBS Service clearance (or equivalent) and you must ensure it remains valid while you are studying your programme.
- References to IfATE replaced with Skills England.
