Yes, you can study ICB courses without a Matric certificate. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) offers courses that do not require Matric as an entry requirement. These courses provide practical skills and knowledge that can help you build a career in accounting, business, or office administration.
ICB Courses You Can Study Without Matric
There are a few ICB courses available for students who do not have Matric. These courses start at an entry-level and allow you to progress to higher qualifications.
ICB Business Management Courses
These courses focus on business skills and management principles. You will learn about financial management, marketing, and how to run a business effectively.
ICB Office Administration Courses
Office administration courses teach you the skills needed to work in an office environment. This includes customer service, office communication, and bookkeeping.
ICB Financial Accounting Courses
If you are interested in finance and accounting, you can start with an ICB Bookkeeping course. This can lead to a full financial accounting qualification.
Each course has different levels, allowing you to study step by step until you reach an advanced qualification.
Can I Study ICB Without Matric Online?
Yes, you can study ICB courses online without Matric. Distance learning gives you the freedom to study from anywhere in South Africa. You do not have to attend classes in person.
Benefits of Studying ICB Online
Study from Anywhere
Since ICB courses are available through distance learning, you can study from home, work, or any other location with internet access.
Flexible Study Schedule
You can study at your own pace and choose when to complete your coursework. This is helpful for students who have jobs or other responsibilities.
Online Support and Resources
Distance learning providers offer study material, tutor support, and online platforms to help you with your studies.
With online learning, you can work towards a qualification even if you cannot attend traditional classes.
Can I Study Directly With ICB?
No, you cannot study directly with ICB. The ICB does not offer training itself. Instead, it works with accredited training providers who offer ICB courses.
How to Study an ICB Course:
- Choose an Accredited Training ProviderYou must register with a college that is approved by the ICB. They will provide you with study material and support.
- Register for Your Exams with ICBOnce you are studying, you must register for your exams through the ICB. The exams are held throughout the year.
- Complete Your Course and Earn Your QualificationAfter passing your exams and completing your coursework, you will receive an ICB qualification.
ICB qualifications are recognised and can help you find work in different business and finance roles.
What Are the Entry Requirements for ICB?
The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) offers courses for students who want to work in finance and business. These courses are open to people with different levels of education. The entry requirements depend on the course you choose.
ICB Bookkeeping Course Requirements
To start with an ICB bookkeeping course, you do not need any previous qualifications. The first level, ICB Bookkeeping: Foundation Level, is open to everyone. You must have basic reading, writing, and maths skills to keep up with the course material.
If you want to study higher levels, you must complete the lower levels first. For example:
- To do the Intermediate Level, you must first pass the Foundation Level.
- To do the Advanced Level, you must pass the Intermediate Level.
Do You Need Work Experience?
ICB does not require work experience to start a course. However, practical experience can help you understand the coursework better.
Can You Do Bookkeeping Without a Qualification?
Yes, you can work in bookkeeping without a qualification, but having one improves your job opportunities. Many employers prefer hiring bookkeepers who have a recognised qualification.
What Jobs Can You Get Without a Qualification?
If you do not have a qualification, you may be able to work in entry-level positions, such as:
- Accounts Clerk
- Data Capturer
- Office Assistant
These jobs involve basic bookkeeping tasks like recording transactions and handling invoices.
Why Is a Qualification Important?
While you can gain experience on the job, a qualification makes you more employable. It shows that you have the right knowledge and skills. With an ICB certificate, you can apply for better-paying jobs and work towards becoming a certified accountant.
Do You Need Matric to Study Bookkeeping?
No, you do not need Matric to study ICB bookkeeping courses. These courses are designed for students who want to gain skills without a school-leaving certificate.
What Are Your Options Without Matric?
If you do not have Matric, you can still study the following ICB courses:
- ICB Bookkeeping (Foundation Level) – This course is open to all students.
- ICB Business and Office Administration (Foundation Level) – No Matric is needed.
Once you complete the foundation level, you can move up to higher levels.
Can You Get a Recognised Qualification Without Matric?
Yes. If you complete all levels of the ICB Bookkeeping course, you can receive a National Diploma in Financial Accounting. This is a recognised qualification in South Africa.
Where to Study ICB?
There are many colleges in South Africa that offer ICB courses. You can study through:
- Distance learning colleges
- Private training institutions
- Online learning platforms
Distance Learning Colleges
Many students choose to study through distance learning. This allows you to study from home while working. Some distance learning colleges that offer ICB courses include:
- Skills Academy
- Other recognised private colleges
Private Training Institutions
Some private colleges offer in-person classes for ICB courses. These institutions may provide extra support, such as tutors and workshops.
Online Learning Platforms
Some institutions allow students to study ICB courses online. This is a flexible option for those who cannot attend in-person classes.
Where Can I Study Bookkeeping Without Matric?
Many colleges in South Africa allow students to study bookkeeping without Matric. You can choose from:
- Distance learning colleges – Study from home at your own pace.
- Private institutions – Attend classes with a tutor.
- Online learning – Study with digital resources and virtual classes.
Skills Academy
Skills Academy is one of the colleges that allow students to study bookkeeping without Matric. They offer flexible learning options and support to help students succeed.
Other Private Colleges
Some private colleges offer ICB bookkeeping courses without Matric. Before choosing a college, make sure they are accredited.
Is It Worth Studying Without Matric?
Yes. An ICB qualification can help you find bookkeeping jobs. Even if you do not have Matric, you can still get a recognised qualification and improve your career prospects.
ICB Courses
ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) offers courses in finance and business. These courses teach skills like bookkeeping, accounting, and office management.
Many people in South Africa choose ICB courses because they are useful for jobs. You don’t need a university degree to start. That makes it a good choice for those who want another way to study and get a good job.
What Qualification Is ICB?
ICB gives different qualifications in business and finance. These courses help students learn practical skills needed for jobs in accounting, business management, and office work. Each qualification prepares you for real workplace tasks, making it easier to find a job or grow in your career.
These include:
- Financial Accounting – Teaches how to keep financial records and understand business accounts.
- Business Management – Covers how to run a business, plan strategies, and manage an office.
- Office Administration – Focuses on office work, customer service, and business communication.
- Public Sector Accounting – Prepares students to work with money in government offices.
Each course has different levels. You can start with a basic certificate and work your way up to a diploma. This helps you improve your skills step by step.
Is ICB a Good Qualification?
ICB qualifications are well-known in South Africa. Many companies prefer employees who have done these courses because they teach practical skills.
Here’s why ICB qualifications are a good choice:
- Employers value them – Many businesses trust ICB training.
- Flexible learning – You can study full-time, part-time, or from home.
- Better job chances – ICB courses can help you find work or get promoted.
- Further study options – You can continue your education at other institutions.
ICB courses are great for anyone who wants a career in finance or business without going to university. They give real-world skills that help you find a job or start your own business.
How Long Is the ICB Course?
The time it takes to complete an ICB course depends on the qualification you choose. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) has different study options, and each one takes a different amount of time.
How Long Do You Study to Become a Bookkeeper in South Africa?
If you want to become a bookkeeper in South Africa, you can join the ICB Bookkeeping Programme through Skills Academy. This programme has different levels, and each level has a suggested study time.
ICB Bookkeeping Programme Levels
Junior Bookkeeper: ICB National Certificate
This is the first level of bookkeeping.
- Suggested time: 16 months.
Senior Bookkeeping: ICB Certificate
This level helps you improve your bookkeeping skills.
- Suggested time: 24 months.
Technical Financial Accounting: National Diploma
This level focuses on technical financial accounting.
- Suggested time: 28 months.
Certified Financial Accounting: National Diploma
This is the highest level and covers advanced financial accounting.
- Suggested time: 36 months.
These are just estimated times. How long you take depends on how fast you learn and study. Skills Academy lets you study at your own speed.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bookkeeping Qualification?
The time it takes to get a bookkeeping qualification through Skills Academy depends on the course you choose and how you study.
It’s important to pick a course that fits your career plans and study at a pace that works for you. Skills Academy gives you the support and tools you need to succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, an ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) qualification is not a diploma. It offers certificates and diplomas in financial, business, and office administration. These qualifications are recognized and accredited, making them valuable in the job market.
ICB exams vary in length depending on the subject. Typically, written exams are about three hours long, while online exams may have different time allocations. Always check the exam guidelines for specific durations.
If you don’t have a matric certificate, ICB courses are a great option. You can start with the ICB Business Management, Office Administration, or Financial Accounting courses at an entry-level and work your way up to higher qualifications.
ICB focuses on bookkeeping, accounting, and business management for students looking for practical, industry-relevant skills. CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) is more advanced and geared towards management accounting and strategic financial management, often requiring a stronger mathematical background.
ICB Bookkeeping qualifications start at NQF Level 3 (Foundation Level) and progress up to NQF Level 6, depending on the course you complete. The higher the level, the more advanced the skills and career opportunities.
Author : Kirsten Keet
