Studying ICB courses from home is a great way to build bookkeeping and accounting skills while managing your time. With distance learning, you can study at your own pace and get support from an accredited training provider. This guide will explain how to study ICB from home, where to enrol, and what is included in the course fees.
How to Study ICB from Home Online
Learning from home is flexible and convenient. You can access study materials, complete assignments, and prepare for exams without attending physical classes. Follow these steps to enrol in an ICB distance learning course:
- Choose a course – Pick the ICB course that matches your career goals.
- Register with a training provider – Enrol with an accredited college to get support and study materials.
- Receive your learning materials – Get textbooks, assignments, and access to online resources.
- Prepare for assessments – Complete coursework and book your ICB exams.
Choose a Course
ICB offers different courses in office administration, financial accounting, and business management. Before signing up, check if the course aligns with your career plans. Some courses have entry requirements, so make sure you qualify.
Register with a Training Provider
You cannot study directly with ICB. You must enrol with a registered training provider that offers ICB courses. Distance learning colleges, like Skills Academy, provide flexible options for students studying from home.
Receive Your Learning Materials
Once you are registered, you will get study guides, textbooks, and access to online learning platforms. These materials will help you with coursework and exam preparation. We also provide tutor support.
Prepare for Assessments
ICB courses include assignments and final exams. You will need to complete a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) before writing your final exam. ICB sets exam dates throughout the year, giving you different opportunities to write.
Can I Study Directly with ICB?
No, you cannot study directly with ICB. It is an exam body, not a training provider. To study an ICB course, you must sign up with an accredited training provider. Skills Academy is an ICB Course training provider and we will provide study materials, support, and guidance to help you complete your qualification.
Where Can I Study an ICB Course?
ICB courses are available through distance learning. This means you can study from anywhere in South Africa. Skills Academy offers ICB courses that allow you to study in a way that suits you.
- Library: A quiet space with internet access where you can focus on coursework.
- Home: Study from your own space with no travel needed.
- Workplace: Some employers allow study time to improve your skills.
- Community Centre: Some centres have free internet and a quiet environment for studying.
ICB Course Fees
The cost of an ICB course depends on the training provider and course level. The fees usually cover tuition, study materials, and assessment costs. We offer payment plans to help students afford their studies.
Study Materials
Your course fees cover textbooks, study guides, and online resources. These materials help you understand key topics and prepare for exams.
Student Support
Distance learning colleges provide tutor support to help students with coursework. If you need help, you can ask questions, join study groups, and get guidance from tutors.
Exam Registration
ICB exams need to be booked separately. We include exam fees in their course packages, while others require students to pay for exams separately.
Flexible Payment Options
Many training providers offer monthly payment plans to make studying more affordable. This helps students spread the cost of their studies over a longer period.
ICB Courses
ICB courses give you the skills to work in bookkeeping, accounting, office administration, and business management. These courses are designed to prepare you for real jobs by teaching you useful skills. Below is a table showing the different ICB courses and what each one covers.
| Course | Course Description |
|---|---|
| Junior Bookkeeper: ICB National Certificate | Covers bookkeeping fundamentals, including trial balance, payroll, and SARS returns. Suitable for those with Grade 10. |
| Certified Senior Bookkeeping: ICB Certificate | Expands on bookkeeping to include financial statements, cost management, and advanced accounting concepts. |
| Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma | Prepares students for financial roles with modules on tax returns, business law, and financial reporting. |
| Certified Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma | Highest level in ICB financial courses; includes corporate strategy, management control, and research theory. |
| Junior Office Administration: ICB National Certificate | Teaches office admin basics, marketing, bookkeeping, and business literacy. Requires Matric or equivalent. |
| Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate | Covers human resources, economics, and advanced office administration functions. |
| Certified Office Manager: ICB Diploma | Advanced office management course covering financial statements, management, and corporate governance. |
| Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate | Introduces key business and financial principles to help students manage small businesses effectively. |
| Business Management Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate | Focuses on business operations, administration, and leadership for aspiring business managers. |
| Business Management and Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma | Integrates business and financial management skills, preparing students for strategic decision-making roles. |
ICB courses are a great way to gain recognised skills that can help you find a job. You can start with a beginner course and work your way up to a diploma. These courses are also valued by employers, making them a smart choice for your future.
How Long Is The ICB Course?
The time it takes to complete an ICB course depends on the qualification level. Some courses take just over a year, while diploma courses take longer. Here’s how long each course takes:
- Junior Bookkeeper (ICB National Certificate): 16 months. Covers the basics of bookkeeping and accounting.
- Certified Senior Bookkeeping (ICB Certificate): 24 months. Includes financial statements and tax.
- Technical Financial Accounting (ICB National Diploma): 28 months. Focuses on cost management and financial reporting.
- Certified Financial Accounting (ICB National Diploma): 36 months. Prepares you for advanced financial roles.
- ICB Office Administration Courses (Certificate to Diploma): 24 to 36 months. Covers office work, bookkeeping, and admin.
- ICB Business Management Courses (Certificate to Diploma): 24 to 36 months. Focuses on business management and finance.
How Long Are ICB Exams?
ICB exams are between 2 to 3 hours long. Every subject has an exam that you need to pass. These exams are written at a registered exam centre, or if you are studying online, you may be able to write them with remote invigilation.
What Key ICB Subjects Are Included In ICB Courses?
ICB courses include subjects that teach you important skills for your career. These subjects focus on finance, office work, and business management. The subjects you study will depend on the course you choose.
ICB Business Management Subjects
ICB Business Management courses teach you how to run and grow a business. You will learn about finance, management, and entrepreneurship. The subjects include:
- Business Management 1
- Business Management 2
- Business Management 3
- Financial Statements
- Cost and Management Accounting
- Office and Legal Practice
- Entrepreneurship
ICB Office Administration Subjects
ICB Office Administration courses teach you how to manage office tasks and help businesses run smoothly. You will learn about communication, human resources, and marketing. The subjects include:
- Business and Office Administration 1
- Business and Office Administration 2
- Business and Office Administration 3
- Marketing Management and Public Relations
- Financial Statements
- Human Resources Management and Labour Relations
- Business Law and Administrative Practice
ICB Financial Accounting Subjects
ICB Financial Accounting courses focus on bookkeeping, tax, and preparing financial statements. These skills are important for jobs in accounting and finance. The subjects include:
- Bookkeeping to Trial Balance
- Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns
- Computerised Bookkeeping
- Financial Statements
- Cost and Management Accounting
- Income Tax Returns
- Business Law and Accounting Control
What Will You Learn From An ICB Course?
ICB courses give you real skills that you can use in the workplace. These skills help you get a job or start your own business. Whether you want to work in finance, office administration, or management, you will gain valuable knowledge.
Financial Skills
You will learn how to manage business finances, handle financial records, and prepare tax returns. This is useful for bookkeeping and accounting jobs. You will also learn cost and management accounting, which helps businesses control their money.
Business Knowledge
ICB Business Management courses teach you how to start and run a business. You will learn about sales, handling finances, and how to manage employees. These skills are great for future business owners and managers.
Office Administration Skills
Office Administration courses teach you how to organise office tasks, handle customer service, and manage business communication. You will also learn about business law and human resources, which are useful in any office job.
Technical Accounting Skills
You will learn how to use accounting software, process payroll, and prepare financial statements. These skills are needed in many businesses and can help you get a job in finance.
Is ICB A Good Qualification?
ICB is a great choice for anyone wanting to work in accounting, bookkeeping, or business. It gives you real skills that employers value. Completing an ICB qualification can help you find a job or move up in your career.
Benefits Of Studying ICB Courses
Studying an ICB course comes with many advantages. You gain knowledge that can help you start working or improve your current job. Here’s why it’s a good choice:
- Recognised Qualification: ICB qualifications are well-known in South Africa. Employers trust these qualifications and know that ICB graduates have the right skills.
- Flexible Study Options: You can study ICB online or through distance learning. This means you can learn while working or handling other responsibilities.
- Better Job Opportunities: ICB courses can help you get a higher-paying job. The more advanced your qualification, the more career options you will have.
- No Matric Needed: Some ICB courses don’t require a matric certificate, which makes them a great choice for those who want to study without Grade 12.
Is ICB Recognised In South Africa?
Yes, ICB qualifications are recognised and accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and SAQA. This means they meet industry standards and are accepted by employers. Many businesses prefer hiring ICB graduates because they have practical skills that can be used right away.
Is This The Right Course For Me?
If you want to work in finance, bookkeeping, office administration, or business management, an ICB course could be perfect for you. These courses are practical, which means you will learn skills you can use at work. If you like numbers, managing finances, or organising business activities, this could be the right path for you.
Which Bookkeeping Association Is Best?
There are different bookkeeping associations, but ICB is one of the most popular in South Africa. Other options include SAIPA (South African Institute of Professional Accountants) and CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants). The best choice depends on what kind of bookkeeping or accounting job you want.
Can I Study ICB Without Matric?
Yes! You don’t need a matric certificate for some ICB courses. Many courses allow students with Grade 10 to apply. Here’s what you need:
- Grade 10 Certificate
- Ability to read, write, and understand English
- Basic numeracy skills
Grade 10 Certificate
You need at least Grade 10 to enrol in most ICB courses. This helps make sure you have the basic skills needed for the coursework.
Ability to Read, Write, and Understand English
All ICB courses are in English. You must be able to read, write, and understand the language to complete assignments and exams.
Basic Numeracy Skills
Since bookkeeping and finance deal with numbers, you need basic maths skills. This helps with calculations and understanding financial records.
What Is The Pass Mark For The ICB Exam?
To pass an ICB exam, you need at least 60%. Your final mark is a combination of coursework and your exam. You must also complete a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE), which contributes to your final grade.
What Happens If You Fail An ICB Exam?
Failing an ICB exam doesn’t mean you have to stop studying. You can take steps to improve and try again. Here’s what you can do:
- Rewrite the Exam: You can register for the next available exam and try again.
- Review Course Material: Go over the coursework to see what you didn’t understand.
- Get Tutor Support: Some colleges offer extra help for students who need it.
- Practise with Past Papers: Using old exam papers can help you prepare better.
How Can I Get An ICB Certificate?
To earn an ICB certificate, you need to pass all your coursework, complete your exams, and submit your Portfolio of Evidence. Once you’ve done that, ICB will issue your certificate. This qualification can help you get a job in finance, business, or administration.
If I Study Via Distance Learning College Can I Take Exams Multiple Times A Year?
Yes! ICB allows students to take exams several times a year. This is great for those who want to rewrite exams or complete their qualification faster. If you study via distance learning, you can choose an exam date that works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
ICB offers both certificates and diplomas, depending on the course level. If you complete a higher-level qualification, like the Certified Financial Accounting Diploma, you will earn a diploma. The lower-level courses, such as bookkeeping and office administration, start as certificates and build up to diploma-level qualifications.
ICB stands for the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. It is an organisation that provides bookkeeping, financial accounting, business management, and office administration courses. These courses help students gain real-world skills that employers look for.
Both ICB and CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) offer accounting-related qualifications, but they focus on different areas. ICB courses teach practical skills in bookkeeping, financial accounting, and small business management. CIMA focuses more on management accounting, which is used in corporate finance and business strategy.
Yes, ICB qualifications are recognised in the UK. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers UK is a separate body, but it follows similar bookkeeping and accounting standards. If you plan to work in the UK, you may need to check if extra assessments are needed.
ICB courses have different NQF levels, starting with basic bookkeeping and moving up to financial accounting and business management diploma courses. The levels include National Certificates and Diplomas. The highest ICB qualification is a National Diploma, which prepares students for senior roles in finance, accounting, and management. It is an NQF Level 6 qualification.
Author: Jodie Jacobs
