Entry Requirements

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Read the IDEP entry requirements here. IDEP is optional in most jurisdictions. However, it is strongly recommended as a structured, comprehensive method for completing your entry-level work experience. In other words, when you complete 96 semester hours/144 quarter hours of education (Routes 1, 2 and 3) or receive your degree or diploma (Route 4), you should apply to IDEP and begin the interior design work experience portion.

IDEP is intended to assist the new graduate in his or her first few years of work. Therefore, the program is only open to individuals who start the program within two years of graduation. (For example, Jane Smith graduated with a bachelor's degree on May 15, 2006. She must apply to participate in IDEP before May 15, 2008.) Note that if you are on Route 1, 2 or 3, you can begin IDEP before you graduate (see entry requirements for more information).

Additionally, since the program is a guide for earning future work experience, it cannot be used to document past experience. Once a person is approved to participate in the program, he or she can only record up to three months of experience prior to the start date. (For example, John Doe applies to participate in IDEP and is approved on January 15, 2007. He can only document work experience starting October 15, 2006 -- not before.)