MOM EP applications in 2026: What changed under COMPASS, and what HR teams should check before they submit

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MOM has introduced three updates to COMPASS that apply from 2026 onwards. On paper, they look straightforward. In practice, they change how you plan points, what you submit as proof, and where “we assumed it would be fine” can turn into a rejection.

If you are handling EP submissions or renewals this year, this on-demand webinar walks through what changed, plus the recurring issues we keep seeing across employers, especially around C2 qualifications and SOL claims.

What you will learn in this on-demand session

1) The 20-point change that is now more “faculty-specific”

Some institutions that previously awarded 20 points more broadly are now grouped more specifically. In short, for a growing set of universities, 20 points may depend on the faculty the qualification sits under, not just the university name itself. This can create cases where two candidates from the same university receive different points outcomes.

If you want a quick preview of why this matters before you watch, this article covers the “often overlooked detail” that can change your COMPASS points.

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2) The expanded professional qualifications list, and what still does not count

MOM has expanded the list of professional qualifications recognised as degree-equivalent, which means more candidates may now qualify for points under C2. The webinar also addresses the confusion we see most often. A credential can be legitimate and even verifiable, but still not be eligible for COMPASS points if it is not degree-equivalent.

If you need the clearest reference on eligibility and proof requirements, this guide is the best companion read.

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3) SOL updates, and why “job title match” is not enough

The Shortage Occupation List has been updated, including new additions in healthcare and a new semiconductor sector. Some roles that employers used in prior filings have also been removed. The webinar explains how SOL eligibility hinges on job duties matching MOM’s role definition, not just the title, and why verified qualifications still matter for SOL-linked submissions.

If you are thinking about renewals as well as new EPs, this is the most practical way to spot risk early.

Why this webinar is worth sharing internally

Even experienced teams get caught by issues that have nothing to do with candidate quality, for example:

Assuming a “top institution” automatically means 20 points, without checking faculty mapping.
Submitting certificates or school letters as proof.
Confusing “verified” with “eligible for COMPASS points.”
Using the wrong MOM reference number, or trying to reuse a code.
Submitting a report that is discrepant or not clearly verified, which can lead to rejection even if the candidate otherwise clears 40 points.

If you want the broader context of all three changes in one place, this pillar article is a good primer before the webinar, or a useful follow-up to send after colleagues watch it.

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Watch the on-demand webinar

If you are reviewing your EP workflow for 2026, this session is designed to help you pressure-test where your process is built on assumptions, and where you have evidence that will hold up at submission time.

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FAQs

What background check do I need?

This depends on the industry and type of role you are recruiting for. To determine whether you need reference checks, identity checks, bankruptcy checks, civil background checks, credit checks for employment or any of the other background checks we offer, chat to our team of dedicated account managers.

Why should employers check the background of potential employees?

Many industries have compliance-related employment check requirements. And even if your industry doesn’t, remember that your staff have access to assets and data that must be protected. When you employ a new staff member you need to be certain that they have the best interests of your business at heart. Carrying out comprehensive background checking helps mitigate risk and ensures a safer hiring decision.

How long do background checks take?

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Can you do a background check online?

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What are the benefits of a background check?

In a competitive marketplace, making the right hiring decisions is key to the success of your company. Employment background checks enables you to understand more about your candidates before making crucial decisions which can have either beneficial or catastrophic effects on your business.

What does a background check show?

Background checks not only provide useful insights into a candidate’s work history, skills and education, but they can also offer richer detail into someone’s personality and character traits. This gives you a huge advantage when considering who to hire. Background checking also ensures that candidates are legally allowed to carry out certain roles, failed criminal and credit checks could prevent them from working with vulnerable people or in a financial function.