Which NVQs Are Eligible for CITB Funding?

Which NVQs are eligible for CITB funding in 2025?

CITB funding in 2025 applies to a wide range of NVQs across construction trades, supervisory positions and site management roles. With Industry Accreditation ending in December 2024, NVQs are now necessary for those renewing or applying for a CSCS card. To support this change, the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) introduced a new funding structure covering award level qualifications, standard trade NVQs and advanced management routes. These grants are accessible for new starters and experienced workers through traditional and fast track assessment models.

Why NVQs Are Now Required in 2025 (Post IA Transition and CSCS Card Compliance)

Industry Accreditation Has Ended: What Does This Mean?

Industry Accreditation (IA), sometimes referred to as grandfather rights, officially ended in December 2024. Construction professionals who previously relied on experience alone now need a formally recognised qualification to keep their CSCS cards valid. From January 2025 onwards, NVQs from Level 2 through Level 7 are now the required benchmark.

CSCS Card Renewals Now Require a Qualification

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) mandates that every worker provides proof of occupational competence through an accredited qualification. Anyone working in roles such as plant operation, site supervision or project management must now hold an NVQ that aligns with their current duties.

CITB Introduces Targeted Funding Support

CITB responded to the end of IA by expanding its grant structure. This includes direct support for post IA qualification pathways and short form grants for those taking fast track routes. From general construction operatives to senior site managers, all CITB registered employers can access funding tailored to their team’s NVQ level. For additional employer support tools, visit the CITB funding resources page.

from Understanding CITB Grant Tiers: From Award to Management Level NVQs

What Is the CITB Grant Structure for 2025?

The CITB funding system in 2025 is based on qualification level and the complexity of the role. Whether you are studying a brief award qualification or completing a full NVQ for site leadership, a funding tier is available to support you.

Award Level NVQs (£650)

This tier supports short qualifications like manual handling, safe use of tools or asbestos awareness. These are aimed at those just starting or working in a limited scope role.

Standard NVQs (£650)

These are the most common qualifications for trades and operations. Eligible NVQs include:

• Bricklaying

• Carpentry and Joinery

• Plastering

• Painting and Decorating

• Plant Operations (360 Excavator, Telehandler, Dumper)

• General Construction Operations

These qualifications meet the criteria for blue CSCS cards and are essential for most site-based roles.

Supervisor NVQs (£980)

NVQs at this tier include Site Supervisor and Occupational Work Supervision qualifications. These qualifications are tied to gold CSCS cards and are ideal for those who manage teams or oversee sections of a site.

Management NVQs (£1,500)

Reserved for advanced qualifications like Construction Site Management (Level 6) and Senior Construction Management (Level 7), this funding tier is available to experienced professionals and required for black CSCS card holders.

What if My NVQ Takes More Than One Year?

Some NVQs may take over 12 months to complete, especially for part-time workers or those combining work-based learning with formal study. CITB offers different grants for qualifications that span more than a year, which ensures that support is still available for longer-term upskilling routes.

Why Grant Banding Matters

CITB’s grant banding ensures that funding matches the commitment required by each qualification. Understanding these bands helps both workers and employers plan their training routes accurately and avoid unexpected costs.

Full List of Eligible NVQs and Fast Track Routes via OSAT and EWPA

Which Construction NVQs Qualify for CITB Funding in 2025?

A broad range of trade and professional qualifications are included in the CITB funded list. If you are involved in hands-on construction or responsible for people or process management, you will likely find a relevant NVQ.

Popular Funded NVQs:

• Bricklaying

• Carpentry and Joinery

• Plastering and Rendering

• Formwork

• Construction Operations

• Plant and Machinery Operations

• Painting and Decorating

Supervisor and Managerial NVQs:

• Occupational Work Supervision (Level 3)

• Site Supervision (Level 3)

• Construction Site Management (Level 6)

• Senior Construction Management (Level 7)

What About Funding for Scottish Qualifications?

Scottish workers can access funding for the Advanced Craft Certificate, which is equivalent to Level 3 NVQs in England. This qualification supports skills recognition across borders and is eligible under CITB’s regional grant pathways.

A full updated list is available directly on the CITB qualification directory.

What Is a Fast Track NVQ Route?

Fast track NVQs allow experienced workers to complete qualifications through on site assessment or practical demonstration. These include:

OSAT: On Site Assessment and Training

This method is ideal for tradespeople with regular site work. An assessor visits the site to observe work and review portfolio evidence. No classroom time is needed.

EWPA: Experienced Worker Practical Assessment

For those with five or more years of experience, this route provides a faster path through practical skills demonstrations and evidence-based portfolios. It works well for skilled professionals who already know the job inside out.

What Is the SAP Grant and Who Qualifies?

The Specialist Applied-Skills Programme (SAP) is a route to achieve Level 2 or 3 NVQs or SVQs in specialist trades. This grant is available for approved training models in areas like drylining, steel fixing and roofing. SAP offers an alternative funded path for trades with no fast track options.

Who Benefits Most from Fast Track Options?

These NVQ pathways are perfect for experienced operatives who do not need training, just formal recognition of their skills. Fast track NVQs reduce disruption and provide a recognised qualification while you continue working.

Are You Eligible for CITB NVQ Funding? + What to Watch Out for with “100 Percent Funded” Offers

Who Can Claim CITB NVQ Grant Funding?

CITB funding is available to:

• Registered employers paying or exempt from the CITB levy

• Self-employed professionals who are correctly registered

• Organisations using CITB Approved Training Organisations (ATOs)

Employers need to apply for grants through the official CITB Employer Portal.

How Do You Know if You’re Eligible?

To receive a CITB NVQ grant, ensure that:

• Your business has an active CITB registration number

• The NVQ is listed on the approved qualifications list

• Your training provider is registered as an ATO

Checking your provider status can be done using CITB’s public ATO search tool.

Misleading Offers: Why You Should Question “100 Percent Funded” Claims

Some training companies advertise NVQs as completely free or fully funded. These offers are often misleading. Funding is only guaranteed if:

• The learner is employed by a CITB registered company

• The provider is a verified ATO

• The NVQ appears on the funded list

Without meeting all these conditions, you or your employer could be liable for the course fees. Always ask to see the CITB ATO ID and check grant terms before enrolling.

How Do You Apply for CITB NVQ Funding in 2025?

Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your CITB NVQ Grant

1. Register as a CITB Employer

New employers must first register their business with CITB. This gives access to the Employer Portal where you can manage your funding claims.

2. Select a Recognised NVQ and ATO Provider

Choose your NVQ from the CITB funded qualifications list and confirm your provider is registered. The list of Approved Training Organisations can be found here.

3. Submit Application and Evidence

Once enrolled, upload enrolment forms, start dates and qualification details to the CITB portal. Evidence may include progress reports and milestone completions.

4. Track Milestones and Claim Final Payment

Some qualifications release funding in stages. Track progress via your dashboard and upload final evidence to complete the grant process.

5. Can New Starters Get Funding with the Into Work Grant?

Yes. CITB offers an Into Work grant for learners completing work experience as part of a Further Education course and moving into employment. It’s a great way to support new entrants progressing from classroom to jobsite.

6. How Can Small Employers Plan Smart CITB Claims?

Small businesses can maximise CITB grants by planning qualification starts around project schedules and grouping applications by quarter. Using an ATO familiar with your work type and tracking milestones in real time helps stretch funding across your workforce.

7. Keep Up with CITB Grant Scheme Updates

CITB revises its funding offers yearly. Stay informed via newsletters or the official site so you don’t miss any changes in grant values or eligible routes.