Which recognition pathway is right for your program?
IMI offers different recognition pathways depending on the type of program your organization delivers. Select the option that best describes your program to see the applicable standards, eligibility requirements, application process, and next steps.
Recognized Mediator Training Program (RMTP): deliver high-quality mediator training that meets the international standards established by the International Mediation Institute (IMI) and recognized by intergovernmental standard-setting bodies, such as the CEPEJ.
These standards are independent measures of quality and are created in consultation with stakeholders and practitioners around the world, under the guidance of IMI Task Forces.
A trainee who successfully completes an IMI RMTP may be referred to as an “IMI RMTP Graduate”. Such graduates are eligible to apply for IMI Qualified Mediator status within five years of program completion, subject to the applicable IMI requirements and processes.
Qualifying Assessment Programs (QAPs): assess highly experienced mediators. Successful candidates may be submitted to IMI for the designation of IMI Certified Mediator, the international gold standard for mediator certification, subject to the applicable IMI requirements and processes.
Mediation Advocacy Qualifying Assessment Programs (MAQAPs): assess highly experienced mediation advocates and advisors.
Successful candidates may be submitted to IMI for the designation of IMI Certified Mediation Advocate/Advisor, subject to the applicable IMI requirements and processes.
Intercultural Competence Qualifying Assessment Programs (ICQAPs): assess experienced mediators in inter-cultural mediation competence.
Successful candidates may be submitted to IMI for the designation of IMI Intercultural Mediator, subject to the applicable IMI requirements and processes.
Online Dispute Resolution Qualifying Assessment Programs (ODR-QAPs): assess experienced mediators in online mediation and dispute resolution competence.
Successful candidates may be submitted to IMI for the designation of IMI Online Mediator, subject to the applicable IMI requirements and processes.
Please note: The ODR-QAP pathway is currently paused and is not accepting new applications at this time.
How the recognition process works.
Why seek IMI recognition?
International credibility
Your program is independently appraised against IMI’s international standards.
Global visibility
Recognized programs can be listed in IMI’s Find a Program directory.
Quality assurance
The appraisal process supports continuous improvement and consistency.
Connection to IMI credentials
Participants can connect their training or assessment to IMI Qualified, Certified, or Specialised status.
Application Fees, Timelines and Ongoing Requirements.
Application processing, expedited processing, audit processing, and annual listing fees apply depending on the program type and the organization’s applicable DEI fee category.
Discounted fees are applied in accordance with IMI’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy, based on country income level and human development classification. VAT may apply depending on the organization’s location. All fees are payable via the Support Our Work page. For further details, please review IMI’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy.
Most applications take between 3 and 6 months, depending on the completeness of the application, appraiser availability, and whether revisions or additional information are required. Complete applications that do not require substantial revisions may be processed more quickly, usually within 6–8 weeks. To help avoid delays, applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application with all questions addressed clearly and directly.
All recognized programs are subject to audit every two years to confirm continued compliance with the applicable IMI standards. An audit processing fee applies. Programs that do not successfully complete the audit process will no longer be recognized by IMI.
Ready to begin?
Submit the initial registration form and the IMI team will review your request and guide you through the next steps.
