Certificate Grading for IPTA Training and Certification Programs

Executive Order : Certificate Grading for IPTA Training and Certification Programs

Preamble:

In line with international best practices in professional training and certification, and following a comprehensive review of IPTA’s certificate issuance practices, it has been determined that adjustments are required to ensure global consistency, competency-based recognition, and credibility of IPTA programs.

Article (1): Scope of Application:

This Executive Order applies to all short professional and clinical training programs conducted under the authority of the International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA.

Article (2): Certificate Issuance:

Effective immediately, IPTA certificates for short training and certification programs shall no longer include grades or percentage scores.

Certificates shall instead confirm that the participant has successfully:

Completed the required training hours.

Demonstrated competency through practical and/or theoretical assessment.

Met the minimum professional standards established by IPTA.

Certificates shall be issued with the designations: “Certified” or “Successfully Completed”, reflecting competency and professional readiness.

Article (3): Rationale

This decision is based on the following principles:

Alignment with Global Standards – International certification programs in clinical fields (e.g., Dry Needling, Manual Therapy, CPR, Advanced Life Support) widely adopt a Pass/Fail competency model.

Competency over Competition – IPTA prioritizes professional competence and patient safety rather than comparative academic ranking.

Encouragement of Lifelong Learning – Reduces undue pressure and motivates professionals to pursue continuing education.

Administrative Consistency – Simplifies certification procedures and ensures uniform standards across all IPTA global offices.

Article (4): Exceptions

This policy shall not apply to longer academic-style programs (e.g., Diplomas, modular certifications linked to higher education credit).

For such programs, IPTA may continue to apply a grading system to support academic progression and credit transfer when appropriate.

Article (5): Implementation & Enforcement

This Executive Order is binding on all IPTA offices, partners, and affiliated training centers worldwide.

The IPTA scientific affairs shall oversee its implementation.

Any violation of this directive shall be subject to review by the IPTA Executive Board.

Issued under the authority of the Executive Board of the International Physical Therapy Academy (IPTA).

Issuance Date: 6 September 2025