Introduction to ISO 29993:2017
ISO 29993:2017 provides a framework for learning services offered outside of formal educational systems. It focuses on enhancing the quality, consistency and transparency of non-formal education such as corporate training, language instruction, personal development courses, and continuing professional education. Unlike formal education (which includes national curriculums, degrees, and public schooling), the services covered under ISO 29993 are provided by private institutions, trainers, and independent learning organizations.
This standard aims to assure learners and sponsors (employers or institutions) that the training services provided are structured, measurable, and aligned with defined learning objectives. It also emphasizes the importance of professional integrity, instructional quality, and learner engagement throughout the training lifecycle.
To initiate your ISO 29993 certification or audit, contact support@pacificcert.com.
Scope and Applicability
ISO 29993:2017 is applicable to any organization offering learning services outside the context of formal education. This includes private training companies, professional development firms, language academies, corporate L&D departments, vocational training centers, and consultants delivering bespoke learning solutions.
The standard applies to in-person, blended, and online training modalities. It can be adapted for individual courses, program series, or enterprise-wide learning frameworks. Its guidance ensures the delivery of effective, learner-centered outcomes while also supporting regulatory compliance, competitive positioning, and client satisfaction.
Whether offering soft-skills training, technical education, compliance workshops, or industry certifications, ISO 29993 ensures a consistent and high-quality learning experience for all stakeholders.
Certification Process
Conduct a comprehensive gap assessment to identify current alignment with ISO 29993 principles
- Define the learning services offered, their scope, objectives, and target audience
- Develop or update documentation such as learning needs assessments, learning outcomes, feedback collection mechanisms, and delivery plans
- Establish criteria for trainer qualifications, course materials, delivery tools, and performance monitoring
- Implement feedback and continuous improvement processes to refine the learning experience
- Provide training to administrative and instructional staff on ISO 29993 requirements
- Schedule and undergo an external certification audit through an accredited body like Pacific Certifications
To begin the certification process, connect with us at support@pacificcert.com.
Documentation Required
To meet ISO 29993 requirements, organizations should prepare and maintain:
- A defined service scope and course catalogue
- Documented learner needs analysis methodology
- Detailed course objectives and expected learning outcomes
- Curriculum design and instructional method descriptions
- Trainer qualifications and development records
- Participant evaluation and feedback mechanisms
- Delivery infrastructure specifications (online platforms, classrooms, LMS tools, etc.)
- Corrective actions and service improvement logs
For complete certifictaion support, email support@pacificcert.com.
Eligibility Criteria
Organizations eligible for ISO 29993 certification must:
- Provide learning services outside national/formal education systems
- Have defined learning objectives, evaluation methods, and feedback processes
- Employ qualified instructional and support personnel
- Deliver consistent learning outcomes to individuals or sponsoring clients
Whether delivering one-to-one coaching or company-wide training, ISO 29993 provides a robust structure for operationalizing learning quality.
Certification Costs
Certification costs are determined by:
- The size of the organization and number of training sites
- Number of programs or services being audited
- Complexity of delivery formats (onsite, online, hybrid)
- Staff strength and process maturity
Get a tailored cost proposal by contacting us at support@pacificcert.com.
Certification Timeline
- Gap Analysis and Planning: 2–3 weeks
- Policy & Process Documentation: 3–5 weeks
- Staff Training and Pilot Audits: 2–4 weeks
- Final Certification Audit: 2 weeks
Average certification timeline is 8–12 weeks, depending on organizational readiness and scope.
Requirements of ISO 29993:2017
To comply with ISO 29993 standard, organizations must demonstrate:
- Clearly defined learning services that outline who the learners are, what learning will occur, and how outcomes will be assessed
- A methodology for determining learner needs and aligning course content accordingly
- Consistent design and delivery processes that support learning objectives
- Trainer competence aligned with the content being delivered
- Transparent communication with learners and sponsors regarding expectations, outcomes, and responsibilities
- Ongoing monitoring, review, and improvement of the service delivery process based on feedback and performance metrics
These requirements ensure that learners are not only informed but actively engaged in meaningful learning activities that deliver tangible results.
Benefits of ISO 29993 Certification
- Builds trust with clients, sponsors, and learners through a recognized international standard
- Demonstrates a commitment to instructional quality and measurable learning outcomes
- Enhances competitive advantage in national and global learning markets
- Supports funding and contract acquisition through proof of compliance and reliability
- Enables better alignment between learner needs, training content, and delivery
- Promotes a culture of continuous improvement among trainers and support staff
The rise of upskilling, remote learning, and microcredentials has significantly increased the demand for high-quality learning services outside traditional academic systems. ISO 29993 is gaining traction worldwide as organizations seek to differentiate their offerings and provide quality assurance to learners, regulators, and employers.
From tech bootcamps to corporate reskilling programs and language schools, ISO 29993 offers a universal framework that keeps learning relevant, personalized, and credible. The standard also supports alignment with broader strategic goals such as employee development, customer training, and lifelong learning.
How Pacific Certifications Can Help
Pacific Certifications works with training providers of all sizes to design, implement, and certify learning services that align with ISO 29993. Our expertise covers education, consulting, technology, and compliance, ensuring your training systems are both practical and standards-compliant.
Our services include:
- Gap analysis and readiness reviews
- Design of service procedures and instructional frameworks
- Assistance in trainer evaluation and certification
- Feedback collection system design and analysis
- Final certification audits and maintenance guidance
Begin your ISO 29993 journey with Pacific Certifications, contact us at support@pacificcert.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ISO 29993 2017?
What is ISO 21001 2018 ISO 29993 2017?
Can freelance trainers get certified?
Yes, if they maintain a structured learning process and meet the documentation requirements.
Does ISO 29993 replace ISO 21001?
No. ISO 21001 is a broader educational organization standard; ISO 29993 is focused specifically on service quality for non-formal learning.
How long does certification remain valid?
Certification is valid for three years, with annual surveillance audits.
Ready to get ISO 29993:2017 certified?
Contact Pacific Certifications to begin your certification journey today!
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