Copyright Information
How can I use VARK legitimately?

What is Copyright?

Copyright is a set of internationally recognised rules that protect the expression of an idea, not the idea itself. It applies to books, digital content, music, videos, software, and other creative works.

These rules give creators control over how their work is used, shared, or reproduced.

In most countries, copyright lasts for the life of the creator plus at least 50 years.

Is VARK Copyrighted?

Yes. VARK® is protected by copyright, and its use is governed by the copyright laws of your country.

The following VARK materials are copyrighted:

• VARK Questionnaires (including translations)
• VARK Helpsheets
• VARK Software
• VARK Training Resources
• VARK Presentations
• VARK Website Content
• VARK Articles
• VARK Algorithms

VARK copyright protection is similar to that applied to software, books, and other published works.

The VARK Algorithm

The VARK algorithm is proprietary and is not publicly available.

We process questionnaire data using these algorithms on behalf of legitimate users.
For more information about this service and associated costs, see the VARK Result Analysis page.

What Counts as a Breach?

Copyright is breached when VARK materials are copied, hosted, or distributed without permission.

This includes:

• Uploading VARK content to websites or intranets (even if password-protected)
• Embedding VARK in survey tools (e.g. Qualtrics, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms)
• Sharing via apps, email systems, or SMS
• Creating videos (e.g. on YouTube) using VARK materials
• Reproducing or modifying VARK questions or resources

VARK materials may not be placed on any external platform under any circumstances.

The Word “VARK” and Trademark

The term VARK was introduced by Neil Fleming in 1987 and trademarked in 2012.

The foundational publication is:

Fleming, N.D. and Mills, C. (1992), Not Another Inventory, Rather a Catalyst for Reflection, To Improve the Academy, Vol. 11, p.137.

Before this, “VAK” was commonly used. VARK extended this by separating Visual into:

• Visual (V) – symbolic/diagrammatic
• Read/Write (R) – text-based

This created a four-part model: Visual, Aural, Read/Write, Kinesthetic (VARK).

The model, questionnaire, and supporting materials are protected by copyright.
The word “VARK” itself is protected by trademark.

How Can I Use VARK?

To use VARK legitimately:

1. Request permission using the Copyright Permission Request form
2. Explain how you plan to use the materials
3. Include the number of users

If you are using VARK in a professional or organisational context, you should expect to pay a fee.

Does It Cost Money?

In general:

• Personal study ? free
• Limited educational use ? may be free (permission still recommended)
• Professional or organisational use ? requires permission and usually a fee

You will usually need to pay if:

• You are using VARK as part of your paid work.
• Your organisation benefits (training, reputation, services).
• You are delivering courses, coaching, or consulting.
• You are publishing or distributing materials.

Is VARK Ever Free?

Some limited use may be free for:

• Teachers and professors
• Students
• Tutors working within their own institution

However:

• An application for permission is still expected
• Materials must not be uploaded, shared online, or embedded in tools
• If you are creating resources for others (even in education), this is not free use

What About Public, Government, or Not-for-Profit Work?

If VARK is used as part of paid work, it is not free — regardless of the audience.

This includes:

• Government-funded programmes
• Not-for-profit organisations
• Projects supporting disadvantaged groups

If VARK adds value to your work, it should be licensed accordingly.

Publishing and Distribution

Without permission, VARK materials may not be included in:

• Books
• Handouts
• Online courses
• Apps or digital platforms

See the Publisher’s page for more details.

Common Situations

Here are simplified guidelines:

You should apply for permission:

• Using VARK with a group (training, teaching, coaching)
• Research projects
• Business or organisational use
• Curriculum or resource development
• Coaching frameworks or programmes

Permission will NOT be granted:

• Hosting VARK on your own website or server
• Embedding VARK in apps or survey tools (unless using the VARK Subscription API)
• Modifying or rewriting the questionnaire
• Collecting VARK data using your own system

Not sure?

Ask us — we’re happy to clarify.

How Should I Acknowledge VARK?

If permission is granted, include this statement:

“Copyright for [resource name] is held by VARK Learn Limited, New Zealand.”

Other Language Versions

When using translated materials, you must acknowledge:

• VARK Learn Limited
• The translator(s) of that version

This information is provided with each translation.