With ICB ACCA exemptions, you can study further and achieve a higher qualification. You will get a headstart in your studies and learn quality skills that will lead to a successful career.
Who Is ACCA?
ACCA stands for Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. It is an international professional body providing higher learning opportunities and professional memberships.
What Are The Exemptions For ACCA?
You can use your ICB qualification to continue your studies with ACCA. Achieve an NQF L8 and become a chartered certified accountant when you study further at their institution.
How Do I Qualify For ICB ACCA Exemptions?
You must have a Financial Accounting National Diploma NQF L6 to qualify for an ACCA exemption. If you are still pursuing your diploma, you must wait until graduation.
How Many Exemptions Can I Get From ACCA?
The ACCA provides up to six exemptions to ICB students. They will determine which and how many exemptions you qualify for by matching it to their relevant qualifications.
ICB Exemptions
Kick-start your studies with ICB exemptions. It allows you to use your relevant qualification or experience to study further. There are two exemptions:
- Exemptions for prior learning – If you have a relevant business or finance qualification, you could qualify for an exemption.
- Exemptions for work experience – You can get credits to study further with relevant work experience. This includes experience in finance and business.
How Should I Apply For An Exemption?
To apply for an ICB exemption, you must create a profile on the student portal. Once you have a profile, you can:
- Complete the Guidelines for RPL
- Pay the recognition of prior learning (RPL) fee
- Submit all relevant documents
What Documents Do You Need To Apply For ICB Exemptions?
You must submit the following documents when you apply for an ICB exemption:
- Completed copy of Guidelines for RPL with a signed acceptance section
- Proof of payment or deposit slip
- Transcript of results
- Certified copies of previous qualifications from a recognised provider
Remember: All documents must be in PDF format.

What Is The ICB Exemptions Process?
ICB’s Exemptions Review Board will review your RPL application. This process can take up to six weeks. They will let you know if you are approved and which exemption you qualify for.
What Does The Exemption Cost?
Listed below are the cost of exemptions for 2025:
RPL/ Exemption application fee | R600 |
RPL/Exemption fee per subject (no PoE) | R475 |
RPL PoE fee per subject (PoE to be completed) | R1050 |
What Is An ICB Qualification Equivalent To?
All ICB qualifications are equal to NQF levels. The highest level you can reach is NQF level 6.
Accounting Courses
Study accounting courses and get your accredited certificate. You can start your studies without matric and even achieve a matric equivalent qualification.
Course | NQF Level |
NQF L3 | |
NQF L4 | |
NQF L5 | |
NQF L6 |
Business Management Courses
Achieve an NQF L6 when studying business management courses. To get started, all you need is Grade 11.
Course | NQF Level |
NQF L4 | |
NQF L5 | |
NQF L6 |
Office Administration Courses
You can start your studies in office administration courses with matric or equivalent. This will bring you one step closer to a diploma certificate.
Course | NQF Level |
NQF L5 | |
NQF L5 | |
NQF L6 |
Are ICB Courses Accredited?
Yes, ICB courses are accredited by:
This proves that you achieved quality skills and are qualified in your field. You have in-demand scarce skills that will make you an asset to every business.
Is ICB Accredited By SAQA?
Yes, each ICB qualification is SAQA-registered and has a SAQA ID number. It shows employers and higher learning institutions that your qualification is recognised and is equal to an NQF level.
Are ICB Qualifications Recognised?
Yes, all ICB qualifications are recognised. This will give you a better chance of finding employment in South Africa. Add it to your CV and impress recruiters with your accredited certificate.
Is ICB Recognised In The UK?
Yes, ICB courses are recognised in the United Kingdom (UK). Not only is it recognised in South Africa, but it is also internationally recognised. You will be able to enjoy local and global career opportunities.
What Can I Do With An ICB Qualification?
From starting your career to joining global bodies, here is what you can do with an ICB qualification:
- Study further
- Get an internship
- Join a professional membership
Study Further
You can study further at accredited institutions, such as ACCA This allows you to pursue a higher qualification. You can also complete all levels in your ICB course and get your diploma.
Get An Internship
Your ICB qualification will give you the boost you need to get an internship. ICB courses teach you basic skills to get a starting position at your dream job.
Join A Professional Membership
You can join the following professional organisations after studying ICB courses:
Professional memberships allow you to connect with professionals in the same field. You will get a designation and resources to build your skills further.
Join Skills Academy and get an accredited qualification that can boost your career to the next level. Contact us today to find out how to get started.




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Frequently Asked Questions
No, you cannot study directly with the ICB. It is not a college but assesses the skills you learn in their courses. It manages the ICB exams that will test whether or not you are competent in business and finance skills.
You must get at least 50% in your ICB exams and 60% as an overall mark to pass your course. Even though your portfolio of evidence (PoE) must be 100% complete, it does not have a minimum pass requirement.
Yes, you can start various jobs with your ICB certificate. But you can pursue an entry-level career if you have just graduated with no work experience. This is your opportunity to work your way up to a management position. You can get get a job as a:
Become a qualified bookkeeper when you study with us. We offer bookkeeping courses you can study from home via distance learning. This means you can study from anywhere in South Africa.
You can enjoy all-inclusive benefits, such as:
- Getting all your study material delivered to you
- Access to online study groups
- Academic help from our skilled tutors
- Assistance from our student support team