Advance Your Arbitration Career: Special Route to CIArb Membership – November 2025 Assessment
The Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb), Kenya Branch, is pleased to announce a Special Route to Membership Assessment Programme, specially designed for experienced legal practitioners and arbitrators. This 1½-day assessment will be conducted online on:
- Day 1: Monday, 3rd November 2025 (Oral Assessment)
- Day 2: Thursday, 20th November 2025 (Written Examination or Online Assessment)
This is a unique opportunity for seasoned professionals to gain recognition through direct admission to CIArb Membership (MCIArb) – a globally respected credential in arbitration and alternative dispute resolution.
Who Is Eligible?
This route is tailored for:
- Experienced Arbitrators with over three years of active practice, and
- Civil Litigation Lawyers with at least three years’ experience, including exposure to arbitration law and procedure.
Whether you are a CIArb member or not, if you meet the above criteria and have an approved legal qualification, you are welcome to apply.
About the Programme
Unlike traditional routes, this is not a teaching course. It is a knowledge and skills assessment designed to test:
- Your grasp of relevant law (especially the Arbitration Acts of 2025),
- Understanding of arbitration procedure, and
- Your judgment and presentation skills.
Participants will be required to:
- Pass a Pre-Course Assignment
- Complete Oral Assessment Workshops
- Pass a 3½-Hour Written or Online Examination
A detailed pre-course reading workbook and reference materials will be provided in advance to aid preparation.
Assessment Content Includes:
- Arbitration Agreement
- Jurisdiction & Powers of Arbitrators
- Arbitration Practice & Procedure
- Interlocutory Applications
- Costs & Interest
- Procedural Matters
- Drafting the Award
What to Expect
Oral Assessment (3rd November 2025)
A full-day online workshop where candidates will be assessed through real-life arbitration scenarios, focusing on:
- Application of law
- Procedural knowledge
- Communication and presentation
Written Exam (20th November 2025)
A 3½-hour open book exam based on the UK Arbitration Act 1996, conducted online or in-person (mode to be confirmed by October).
Please note: While books may be highlighted or underlined, no handwritten notes are allowed.
Fees and Payment Options
Tutorial Fees: Kshs 48,500/-
- Installment Option: Pay Kshs 28,000/- by 5th September 2025, and balance by 14th October 2025.
Examination Fee: GBP 178
- Payable to CIArb Kenya Branch’s CBA Pounds Account.
- All exam fee installments must be completed by 9th October 2025.
For installment arrangements, please contact the Branch Accounts Officer.
Materials & Delivery
- Course materials will be available upon payment.
- Delivery can be arranged at the candidate’s cost.
- Participants must have the Arbitration Act 1995 (Kenya) and Arbitration Act 1996 (UK) for the course and assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the format of the assessment?
An interactive workshop format with oral assessments based on a common arbitration scenario. Candidates will be tested on legal knowledge, judgment, and self-presentation.
Can I bring notes into the exam?
You may bring textbooks and your workbook. No handwritten notes are allowed, but highlighting and underlining are permitted.
Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Deadline/Date |
|---|---|
| First Installment Payment | 5th September 2025 |
| Final Fee Payments | 9th & 14th October 2025 |
| Oral Assessment (Day 1) | 3rd November 2025 |
| Exam Day (Day 2) | 20th November 2025 |
Ready to Take the Next Step?
This programme offers a fast-track, competency-based route to membership of CIArb – perfect for professionals who have the experience but need the credential to match.
Apply Today: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PHBqhVZ3e9v65HyPGpnEO2rW1MyD-oY0rA90rb1QfsE
Seats are limited. Secure your spot by completing your registration and payments before the deadline.
