The audit process is an essential part of IMI’s quality assurance framework. It ensures that IMI-recognized programs continue to meet the applicable IMI standards after recognition has been granted.
Frequency and Submission
All IMI-recognized programs must undergo a mandatory audit every two years to maintain their standing. Submission deadlines are typically scheduled for June 30 or December 31, as advised by IMI.
The Audit Process includes:
- Recognized Mediator Training Programs (RMTPs)
- Qualifying Assessment Programs (QAPs)
- Mediation Advocacy Qualifying Assessment Programs (MA-QAPs)
- Intercultural Competence Qualifying Assessment Programs (ICQAPs)
- Online Dispute Resolution Qualifying Assessment Programs (ODR-QAPs).
The audit process is designed to ensure that the program’s design, delivery, and assessment remain fully aligned with IMI’s independent international standards and continue to meet the requirements originally approved.
Step-by-Step Audit Process
01. IMI notifies the organization
IMI notifies the organization when its recognized program is due for audit. The notification will identify the relevant program and the applicable submission deadline.
Audit deadlines are generally set for either 30 June or 31 December, as advised by IMI.
2. Pay the audit processing fee
An audit processing fee applies to all IMI-recognized programs subject to audit.
The fee should be paid when IMI notifies the organization that its program is due for audit. The audit process begins once the applicable fee has been received.
Audit fees are subject to IMI’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy. VAT may also apply depending on the organization’s location.
| Fee Type | Regular Fee (High-income / Very High HDI) | Discount Level 1 — 25% (Upper-middle / High HDI) | Discount Level 2 — 50% (Lower-middle & Low-income / Medium/Low HDI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audit Processing Fee – All Program Types | €350 | €262.50 | €175 |
3. The organization reviews its recognized program
Before submitting the audit application form, the organization should review the program information currently displayed in its IMI organization profile on the IMI website and confirm that it is accurate, complete, and up to date.
If the program has undergone substantial changes, IMI may determine that the organization must follow the standard application process instead of the audit process.
4. The organization submits the audit form
The organization completes and submits the relevant audit form online.
The audit submission should provide complete and accurate information about the recognized program, including any updates to program content, structure, delivery format, assessment process, trainers, coaches, assessors, quality assurance procedures, complaints and appeals processes, and other relevant information.
5. IMI conducts an initial completeness review
The IMI team reviews the audit submission to confirm that the form has been completed and that the information provided is sufficient for review.
If required, IMI may ask the organization to provide clarification, additional information, or updated documents.
6. IMI reviews continued compliance
IMI reviews whether the program continues to meet the applicable IMI standards.
This may include consideration of whether the program has materially changed, whether the organization’s public information remains accurate, whether the correct IMI recognition language and logo are being used, and whether any quality concerns or complaints have been identified.
7. IMI confirms the audit outcome
If the program continues to meet the applicable IMI standards, IMI confirms that recognition is maintained.
If concerns are identified, IMI may request further information or corrective action. Where the program no longer meets the applicable standards, or where the organization does not complete the audit process, the program may no longer be recognized by IMI.
8. IMI updates the organization’s records
Following the audit outcome, IMI updates its internal records and, where applicable, the organization’s public profile to reflect the program’s current recognition status.
Organizations should ensure that any public references to IMI recognition remain accurate and consistent with the outcome of the audit.
9. If recognition is withdrawn or the program is delisted
Where recognition is withdrawn or the program is delisted, the organization must stop using the IMI name, recognition status, and IMI logos in connection with that program.
If the organization wishes to seek recognition again in the future, IMI may require the organization to submit a new application and pay the applicable application processing fee.
