Frequently Asked Questions

Who can study for an RHS qualification in Horticulture?

Anyone who has an interest in plants and gardening can study for an RHS qualification. Although the qualifications are aimed primarily at vocational candidates intent on acquiring the skills and knowledge to pursue a career in horticulture, the Level 2 Certificate is also ideal for dedicated amateurs who wish to have their horticultural knowledge assessed.

What are the entry requirements for RHS qualifications?

There is no formal entry requirement for the RHS Level 2 Certificate in Horticulture, just an interest and enthusiasm for plants and gardening.

Where can I study for an RHS Qualification?

Courses leading to RHS qualifications are offered at colleges and other approved centres throughout the UK and Ireland.

Contact details for centres offering courses leading to RHS qualifications (148KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)

Can I study at home by distance learning?

Yes, there are several providers offering a range of home study courses leading to RHS qualifications.

Organisations offering distance-learning options leading to RHS qualifications (95KB Adobe Acrobat pdf)

Are the courses full- or part-time?

The Level 2 Certificate and Level 3 Advanced Certificate and Level 3 Diploma courses are delivered on a part-time basis, usually one day a week or during the evening. The courses are modular in structure and examinations are held twice a year in February and June/July, giving considerable flexibility of study.

What are the course fees?

Course fees are set by the college or distance learning provider – contact your centre for details.

How do I apply to take an examination?

Applications should be made through your centre. Candidates studying through distance learning will have to apply through an approved centre to sit the examination.

Are RHS Qualifications nationally recognised?

RHS Qualifications is a recognised Awarding Body and the RHS Level 2 Certificate, RHS Level 3 Advanced Certificate and RHS Level 3 Diploma in Horticulture are accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The qualifications are widely recognised by employers within the horticultural industry.

Can I take the examinations overseas?

Written examinations can be taken overseas. The practical examinations for the Level 3 Advanced Certificate and the Diploma must be taken at a regional examination centre in the UK. Contact the Qualifications Section for further information about arranging an overseas examination.

Where are the practical examinations taken and when?

Practical examinations are held at a number of regional centres throughout the country. The examinations for the Advanced Certificate are held in September and October and last half a day. Those for the Diploma are held in July and take a full day.

Where can I obtain past examination papers?

Past examination papers can be downloaded free of charge. Where applicable, papers for the last three years are available to download. Earlier papers can be purchased by application to the Qualifications Section.

Past examination papers

Further information

Further details can be obtained by contacting:

Qualifications Section
RHS Garden Wisley
Woking
Surrey
GU23 6QB
UK
Tel: 0845 260 9000
mailto:qualifications@rhs.org.uk