ICB exams are an important part of getting a recognised qualification in finance, and office administration. Many students want to know how difficult are ICB exams are before signing up for a course. Knowing how they work, the pass mark, and how they are graded can help you feel more prepared.
How Difficult Are ICB Exams? What You Need To Know
ICB exams test both knowledge and practical skills. They are made to check if students meet workplace standards. While they can be challenging, they are not impossible to pass.
The difficulty depends on the course you choose. If you keep up with your lessons, complete your assignments, and revise before your exam, you have a good chance of passing.
Below, we explain the exam pass mark, how your results are calculated, the length of exams, and what to do if you need to postpone.
What Is The Pass Mark For The ICB Exam?
To pass an ICB exam, you need at least 50% in your final test. But your final mark comes from more than just the exam.
Your final mark is made up of:
- 30% from your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) – This includes assignments, tests, and other tasks.
- 70% from your final exam – This is a written test you take at an ICB-approved exam venue.
Even if you do well in your PoE, you must pass the final exam to pass the subject. If you fail the exam, you will need to rewrite it.
How Are ICB Marks Calculated?
Your ICB marks come from both your coursework and your exam. Here’s how it works:
- You must finish three assignments and two tests as part of your PoE.
- Your PoE counts for 30% of your total mark.
- The final exam counts for 70% of your total mark.
- You need at least 50% in your exam to pass.
Your PoE helps improve your final score. This is why it’s important to complete all your coursework on time.
How Long Are ICB Exams?
ICB exams are usually between 2 and 3 hours long, depending on the subject.
During the exam, you will answer different types of questions, including:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Short written answers
- Case studies
- Calculations (for accounting subjects)
Before your exam, you will get exam guidelines to help you prepare. These include the topics covered and the types of questions you will answer.
How To Postpone An ICB Exam?
If you cannot write your exam on the set date, you can apply to postpone it. However, you must apply before the deadline.
To postpone your exam, follow these steps:
- Log in to the ICB Student Portal.
- Choose the exam you want to postpone.
- Submit a postponement request before the deadline.
- Pay the postponement fee (if required).
If you miss the deadline, you will have to register and pay again to write the next exam.
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After writing your exams, you will need to check your results. In the next section, we explain how to access your ICB results and what to do if you need to rewrite.
ICB Exam Results
ICB exams are a big step towards getting an ICBqualification. Once you have written your exam, the next step is checking your results. Here’s how to do it, when you’ll get your marks, and what to do if you don’t pass.
How Do I Check My ICB Results?
Checking your ICB exam results is quick and simple. Follow these steps:
- Go to the ICB Student Portal.
- Log in with your student details.
- Click on “Exam Results” to see your latest marks.
Your results will show both your final exam score and your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) mark. If you pass, you can move on to the next subject or course. If not, you may need to rewrite the exam.
When Will I Receive My ICB Exam Results?
Waiting for results can be stressful, but ICB releases them 6 to 8 weeks after your exam date.
You will get an email when your results are available. You can also check the ICB website for updates.
If it has been more than 8 weeks and you haven’t received your marks, contact ICB support for assistance.
What Happens If You Fail an ICB Exam?
Not passing an exam can be frustrating, but you have options:
- Rewrite the exam – You can register to write it again on the next exam date.
- Improve your PoE marks – Your PoE counts for 30% of your total mark, so strong coursework can help.
- Request a re-mark – If you think there was a mistake in marking, you can apply for a review.
To book a rewrite, log in to the ICB Student Portal and follow the steps to register.
How Can I Pass ICB Exams?
Want to pass your ICB exams the first time? Here are some tips:
Complete Your Portfolio Of Evidence (PoE)
Your PoE is 30% of your final mark, so completing assignments and tests properly can give you a strong start.
Use ICB Study Resources
ICB provides study guides and past papers. These show the types of questions that could be in your exam.
Practice Managing Your Time
ICB exams are timed. Practice answering past paper questions within the time limit to get comfortable.
Join A Study Group
Learning with others can help you understand tough topics. Discussing ideas and asking questions can make studying easier.
Ask For Help When Needed
If a subject is difficult, speak to your tutor. You can also find extra study materials on the ICB website.
Looking for a career in accounting or office administration? Our college offers ICB-accredited courses that give you real-world skills. Register today and start your journey to a recognised qualification.
ICB exams are a great way to build a strong career in business, accounting, and office administration. While the exams require effort, they are achievable with the right preparation. Understanding how ICB exams work, how marks are calculated, and how to check results will help you stay on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, an ICB qualification is a great choice. It is recognised in South Africa and teaches skills that are useful in jobs like accounting, business, and office work. Many employers prefer hiring people with ICB qualifications because they know how to handle real workplace tasks.
ICB offers certificates, higher certificates, and diplomas. If you finish all the levels in a programme, like the ICB Financial Accounting Diploma, you can get a diploma. The type of qualification you receive depends on how many courses you complete.
Yes, ICB is recognised in South Africa by official education boards like QCTO. Many businesses accept ICB qualifications because they meet industry standards. This means an ICB course can help you find a good job.
Yes, you can study ICB courses without matric. Some courses, like the ICB Junior Bookkeeper National Certificate, do not require matric. This allows students to start learning and work towards getting a diploma.
No, ICB does not teach students directly. You must study through an ICB-approved college like Skills Academy. Colleges provide study materials, tutor support, and guidance to help you complete your course.
No, NSFAS does not pay for ICB courses because they are private qualifications. However, many colleges offer payment plans so you can pay in smaller amounts while you study.
