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Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is a critical component of the UK’s higher education infrastructure, with more than half of it being managed by the private sector. In response to this, The Property Institute (TPI) is offering an introductory Level 2 course in PBSA management.

Your First Step

This is an introductory course ideal for candidates wanting to gain basic knowledge in the key areas related to PBSA property management, suitable for on-site and office-based support teams, new entrants to the profession and those already working in a property management role.

Completing this qualification is equivalent to NVQ Level 2 Award.

This qualification does not allow you to use any post-nominal letters in your professional title.

If you require special facilities or support, please inform The Property Institute at the time of qualification registration. TPI Qualifications Team is committed to providing inclusive access and will endeavour to meet all support requests or provide reasonable adjustments to enable fair access to examinations, provided sufficient notice is given. Where appropriate, applicants will be required to submit formal evidence of an independent assessment of their needs.

To find out more, download the PBSA Level 2 qualification brochure.

Course Modules

The course is made up of 6 modules, covering the 4 core elements of a residential property management professional's training.

Module 1 – An Introduction to Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Property Management

Module 2 – An Introduction to the Legal Framework in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Property Management.

Module 3 – An Introduction to Health and Safety in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Property Management.

Module 4 – An Introduction to the Customer and Consumer in Property Management.

Module 5 – An Introduction to Ethics and Behaviours in Property Management.

Module 6 – An Introduction to Mental Health and Wellbeing in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation Property Management.

Course Format and Duration

Course duration is fully flexible to fit your individual needs. Once enrolled, you will have access to all learning materials for 12 months. You can choose to complete the course and attempt the final exam at any point within that timeframe.

Each module is concluded with an end-of-module test, and you are required to pass the test in order to move on to the next module. 

There are no entry requirements or prior knowledge necessary for this course, as it is designed for new entrants to the profession as well as those already working in purpose-built student accommodation.

Assessment

The course is completed with a final exam. This is an online exam, and you can take it upon completion of all six modules. The exam can be taken at any time. 

The exam lasts an hour and consists of 60 multiple choice questions. You are allowed three attempts at the final exam within the 12-month timeframe.

The exam is marked automatically, and the result is given immediately after completion.

Access the Full Course Syllabus

Get a complete breakdown of modules, learning outcomes, and exam details for the PBSA Level 2 qualification.

The Package

  • 12 months access to the course*
  • 3 exam sittings that must be sat within 12 months*
  • Certificate upon passing.

*from date of payment.

Enrol by 30 April 2026 to lock in the special rate of £149. The price increases to £249 on 1 May 2026.

Fees