As this is self-managed study the timescale for the diploma is flexible.

As a minimum, you have to have been actively practising applied permaculture design for a minimum of two years after completing your Permaculture Design Course before you can be considered for accreditation. The 'Supported Route' takes a minimum of two years, from when you register, to when you go forward for accreditation.

There is no upper limit to how long you can take to complete your Diploma, however there is a small annual fee to remain registered as an apprentice, and you need to remain a member of the Association. The 'Independent Route' is a means for people who have been practising applied permaculture design for a minimum of two years since they completed their permaculture design course, to accredit prior work.