IUCN Red List Assessor Training

In an effort to provide easy access to IUCN Red List training on a global scale, IUCN has partnered with ConservationTraining.org to offer this multiple-module, self-paced course on the rules and standards used for IUCN Red List assessments. In this free curriculum, you will learn about the IUCN Red List assessment process and how to compile a scientifically rigorous IUCN Red List assessment.

Getting Started

Preparing IUCN Red List assessments requires comprehensive knowledge on the application of the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, to ensure that assessments are conducted according to scientifically underpinned and exacting standards. This process differs slightly depending on whether you are a Global Assessor assessing the global extinction risk of species for publication on the IUCN Red List, or a Regional Assessor assessing species’ subglobal extinction risk for a regional or national Red List.

Global Assessors: Please complete Modules 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 (Module 7 is optional, but is important for assessing subpopulations within a species)

Regional Assessors: Please complete Modules 1, 2, 3, 7 (Modules 4, 5 and 6 are optional, but are important if you intend to submit endemic species assessments for publication on the global IUCN Red List, and are required if you are working on an IUCN-led regional assessment project.)

We advise you to take Modules 1-3 in order. Once you have completed Modules 1-3, the other Modules can be taken in any order. Module 1 is open to the public. To take Modules 2-7, just create an account on this site and follow the steps to enroll when prompted. A record of completion for each Module can be obtained after successfully passing the lesson assessments with a score of 70% or higher.

In order to receive a Certificate of Achievement to prove you have successfully passed the course, you must complete the final exam for Global or Regional Assessors with a minimum grade of 75%. We recommend completing the training in the various modules before starting this exam.

Click on the course title to enter the course room and begin the lessons. Please remember to have pop-ups enabled within your browser for ConservationTraining.org as many lessons open in pop-up windows.

Acknowledgements: IUCN gratefully acknowledges the MAVA Foundation and Environment Agency Abu Dhabi for their generous support of IUCN Red List training.