Since 2004, CEA has changed its concept for mature candidates the option of three hours examinations methodology to Continuous Consistence Assessment (CCA) on work experiences and hands on training. The Executive Board of Governors has handed over the full authority and responsibilities to UK-Commission for Consistent Learning (UK-CCL), who is the assessors, examiners and verifiers for vocational qualification with the ISO9001:2008 certification.

Therefore, there is no time limit and the busy working professionals can meet CEA’s entry requirements the fact that CEA had joined hands with UK-CCL who do not meet the entry requirements, can follow UK -CCL's "Skill Appreciation Scheme or Workshop and Seminar oriented awarding scheme." The CEA's membership is also considered under the defined scheme of Affirmation for Prior Experience & Learning (APEL) or Accreditation for Career Progress Development (ACPD). Any applicant who does not meet the entry requirements can process his/her application via the Affiliate Grade Membership and attending oral examination to determine to suitability of the membership.

Upon successfully completing the 'Skill Appreciation Scheme' candidates may apply from the International Coordinating Centre for a form of the appropriate faculty membership of CEA, provided they fulfil the other necessary requirements as to the eligibility for membership.

Membership to CEA is considered under the defined scheme of Affirmation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) or Accreditation for Career Progress Development (ACPD). In these two schemes, credits are given for prior learning and experience. Those who have the necessary credit units will be advised on the membership level awarded to them and what examination, if any, they need to sit.

Those who do not qualify with enough credits will be channelled to the APEL scheme where they will have to sit or oral or viva sessions. Upon completion of these and the accumulation of further credits, they then can qualify for membership.