Membership Grade Decision Guide
While our interactive, automated eligibility tool is currently being configured for deployment, you can use this professional decision guide to determine your recommended CILGD membership grade. This structure aligns with the criteria set by our Membership Committee.
1. Find Your Highest Academic Qualification
Identify your academic baseline to determine which grades are open to you:
Doctorate (PhD / DPA / DBA)
Eligible for: Fellow (FCILGD), Full Member (MCILGD), or Associate Member (ACILGD) based on experience.
Master’s Degree (MA / MSc / MPA / MBA)
Eligible for: Fellow (15+ years), Full Member (5+ years), or Associate Member (3+ years).
Bachelor’s Degree / Higher Diploma
Eligible for: Full Member (8+ years), Associate Member (5+ years), or Graduate Member (Entry-level).
Current Higher Education Student
Eligible for: Student Member (Requires proof of active enrollment in related studies).
2. Assess Your Professional Experience
Cross-reference your academic baseline with your years of experience in local governance, public administration, or community development:
- 15+ Years
Fellow (FCILGD)
Recommended for senior executives, directors, or long-serving local government officials holding at least a Master’s degree.
- 8 - 14 Years
Full Member (MCILGD) or Fellow (FCILGD)
Full Member is open to Bachelor’s holders with 8+ years. Fellow requires a Doctorate with 8+ years.
- 3 - 7 Years
Full Member (MCILGD) or Associate (ACILGD)
Full Member requires a Master’s with 5+ years. Associate is open to Bachelor’s with 5+ years, or Master’s with 3+ years.
- 1 - 2 Years
Associate Member (ACILGD)
Open to Doctorate holders with 1+ years of experience, or early-career professionals holding a Master's.
- 0 - 1 Years
Graduate Member or Student
Graduate Member is open to any degree holder starting their career. Student is reserved for active students.
Official Determination
This decision guide is for reference purposes only. The official allocation of membership grades is determined exclusively by the Membership and Fellowship Committee upon complete verification of your submitted certificates, professional history, and references. Final designation depends on good standing and administrative approval.