The length of your studies can be between one to three years long. It also depends on the course you choose and how you choose to study. So if you are wondering how long does it take to study ICB courses, know that your decisions have an influence on the course duration.
How Long Does It Take To Complete An ICB Course?
Each ICB course has various levels – from national certificates to diplomas. The recommended length of study for each course is as followed:
Accounting Courses
Our Accounting Courses range from 16 months – three years:
- Junior Bookkeeping Course – 16 months
- Senior Bookkeeping Course – 24 months
- Technical Financial Accounting Course – 28 months
- Certified Financial Accounting Course – 36 months
Business Management Courses
Our Business Management Courses varies from one – three years in length:
- Small Business Financial Management Course – 12 months
- Office Admin Business Management Course – 27 months
- Business Management Financial Accounting Course – 36 months
Office Administration Courses
The length of our Office Administration Courses are between two – three years in duration.
- Junior Office Administration Course – 24 months
- Office Admin Higher Certificate Course – 26 months
- Office Administration Diploma Course – 36 months
Can I Complete ICB Courses In A Year?
Yes, there are ICB courses you can complete in a year. But do not rush through your course. You need to give yourself enough time to complete your PoE and prepare for your final exam.
What Is The Study Time Per Module?
ICB recommends that you spend at least 48 hours studying per module. You will be able to pace yourself through your studies without having to cram before your ICB final exam.
How Many Subjects Can I Do At The Same Time?
You can study as many courses as you want at the same time. Whether you want to study one or three subjects, you have the freedom to decide what workload works best for you.
Is There An ICB Course Duration?
Yes, each ICB course has a recommended duration in which you need to complete your course. But if you want to complete your course sooner, you can study fast and pay less with us.
How Long Does It Take To Complete A Bookkeeping Course?
Complete both the Junior and Senior Bookkeeping Courses in around 24 months. But if you only want to achieve your national certificate, you can complete your studies in 12 months.
How Long Does It Take To Qualify As A Bookkeeper?
You can qualify to become a bookkeeper within 12 months. You do not need a degree or postgraduate studies to become a bookkeeper. Furthermore, you can start your career with just an accredited certificate.
Flexible Study Options
How you choose to study also plays a part in how long your course will be. You can study:
- Full-time
- Part-time
- Distance Learning
Full-time
If you are not working, you can study ICB courses full-time at a college. You will be able to complete your course in the recommended course time. Since you studying at a college, you might need to follow a strict timetable and meet deadlines.
Part-time
When you work while studying, completing an ICB course part-time is a great choice. This study method means you need to take more time to complete your course. But you will have enough time to take care of your responsibilities and focus on your studies
Distance Learning
Choose your own study schedule when you study ICB courses via distance learning. When you study from home, you choose when and where you want to learn. You can enjoy the freedom of studying at a pace that you can manage.
ICB PoE
Each ICB student needs to complete a digital portfolio of evidence (PoE) during their studies. It consists of all the coursework you need to complete in your studies. This includes:
- Assignments 1, 2 and 3
- Tests 1 and 2
What Is The ICB Completion Deadline?
The completion deadline is the due date for your ICB PoE. You need to complete all sections in your PoE by no later than one week before your ICB final exams.
What Happens If I Cannot Meet The Completion Deadline?
If your PoE is not complete by the deadline, you will not be disqualified from writing ICB exams. It also means that you:
- Forfeit the exam booking
- Need to complete a new PoE if it is within the new calendar year
- Will not be able to access sections B and C until you reregistered for the exam
Please note: When you reregister for your exam, you must pay the full exam fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bookkeeping Hard To Study
This all depends on you. If you study your learning material and complete your work, your studies can be challenging, yet fun and rewarding.
Do Bookkeepers Make Money?
Yes, bookkeepers can earn a handsome salary with the right skills and work experience. You can earn roughly over R15 000 per month as a junior bookkeeper in South Africa.
Is ICB A Recognised Qualification?
Yes, ICB courses are both locally and internationally recognised. The Quality Council For Trades & Occupations (QCTO) and the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) accredit ICB courses. After your studies, ICB will issue you with an ICB qualification recognised by FASSET.
ICB Qualification Equivalent
Each ICB qualification is registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This means that each course meets the levels and standards of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
NQF Levels | Course |
NQF L3 |
|
NQF L4 |
|
NQF L5 |
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NQF L6 |
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Skills Academy is the word support in every way.
What Can I Do With An ICB Qualification?
You have plenty of career and study options when you have achieved your ICB qualification. What you can do with your ICB qualification includes:
Complete Your ICB Stream
After completing your national certificate, you can study further and complete all courses in your ICB stream. Once completed, you will achieve your NQF L6 national diploma.
Study Further At Unisa Via RPL
Through recognition of prior learning (RPL), you might be able to use your credits or work experience to study at Unisa.
Start An Entry-Level Job
Your ICB qualification gives you the opportunity to get an entry-level job or work at an internship. You can pursue jobs, such as:
- Junior Bookkeeper
- Assistant Accountant
- Office Administrator
Join a Professional Organisation
You can join local and international organisations such as:
This gives you the chance to network with professionals and get exclusive resources to help you further your skills and career.
