ICB Business Management Program Application Process

Starting the ICB Business Management Program is simple. This guide will explain the courses, subjects, assessments, and how to apply.

Starting the ICB Business Management Program is simple. This guide will explain the courses, subjects, assessments, and how to apply. By the end, you will know how to earn your ICB certificate through Skills Academy and why it is a smart choice for your future.

ICB Business Management Courses

The ICB Business Management Program teaches you how to run a business. You will learn skills like managing money, organising an office, and leading a team. There are three courses to choose from:

How Many Modules Are In Business Management?

Each course has different subjects, also known as modules. These subjects help you learn how to manage a business. Here’s what You will study:

SubjectWhat You Will Learn
Introduction to Business EnglishLearn to read, write, and speak clearly for business. You will also improve your communication skills.
Business Management 1Teaches the basics of running a business, like planning and leading a team.
Bookkeeping to Trial BalanceShows you how to keep track of money and prepare reports.
Business LiteracyHelps with maths and reading skills needed in business.
Office and Legal PracticeTeaches office duties and basic legal rules for businesses.
Business Management 2Builds on earlier lessons with more advanced management skills.
Marketing Management and Public RelationsTeaches how to promote a business and manage public image.
Financial StatementsHelps you read and create financial statements to manage money better.
Human Resources Management and Labour RelationsTeaches how to manage staff and deal with workplace problems.

These subjects give you everything you need to manage a business, from handling money to working with people.

How Long Does A Business Management Course Take?

You can complete the entire ICB Business Management Program in 75 months. The time it takes depends on the course you choose. Some courses take 12 months, while others can take up to 36 months.

Small Business Financial Management Certificate

This course takes about 12 months. You will learn how to manage money, keep records, and run a small business.

Business Management Office Admin Higher Certificate

This course lasts around 27 months. It teaches office work, admin skills, and business management tasks.

Business Management Financial Accounting Diploma

This course can take up to 36 months. It focuses on advanced business skills like planning, managing staff, and handling finances.

Which Course Is Best In Business Management?

If you want to study business management quickly the ICB Small Business Management Certificate is a good choice.The best course depends on what you need. Here are four ways to help you choose:

  • Your Career Goals: Pick a course that matches what you want to do. If you want to run a small business, the Small Business Financial Management Certificate is a good choice.
  • Your Skills: Choose a course based on what you already know. If you have some business experience, go for a higher-level course like the Financial Accounting Diploma.
  • Your Time: Shorter courses take less time but offer fewer topics. Longer courses go deeper into business skills.
  • Your Budget: Some courses cost less, but longer courses offer more skills and better job chances.

Assessment

You will need to complete both assignments and exams to pass ICB Business Management courses. The assignments make up 30% of your course mark. While the exam accounts for the other 70%. These help you understand the material and show what You have learned. 

What Is Inside My Portfolio Of Evidence?

Your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) is a collection of your work during the ICB Business Management Course. You will hand it in before your final exam. Here is what it includes:

  • Formative Assignments: These small tasks help track your progress. They also let you practise what You have learned.
  • Summative Assessments: These bigger tests check what You have learned so far.
  • Practical Tasks: Real-life tasks where you apply your skills in business situations.
  • Internal Moderation: Skills Academy checks your work to make sure it is fair and correct.

When Do I Hand In My Portfolio Of Evidence?

As I said earlier you hand in your PoE before your final exam. You will get your deadlines early, so you will have plenty of time to finish everything.

How Can I Get ICB Certificate?

You can get an ICB Certificate by registering for an ICB Course such as the ICB Small Business Management Certificate. Getting your ICB certificate is easy through Skills Academy. Follow these steps:

  • Fill Out the Application Form: Choose the ICB Course you are interested in. Then complete the form with your details.
  • Send in Your Documents: Include a copy of your ID and any certificates you have.
  • Pay the Registration Fee: A small fee will confirm your spot in the ICB course.
  • Get Your Study Materials: Once registered, You will receive everything you need to start studying.

Where Can I Study An ICB Course?

You can study ICB Business Management courses online with Skills Academy. This means you can learn from home and study at your own speed. You can learn your course anywhere even at the library if a stable internet connection is not available at home. 

Can I Study Directly Through ICB?

No, you need to sign up with an approved institution if you want to study ICB Courses. ICB works through registered providers who offer the courses.

Why Should I Study With ICB?

ICB courses are trusted by employers across South Africa. These courses give you practical skills that you can use in real jobs. Plus, you can study from anywhere, which gives you flexibility and freedom.

Recognised Qualification

ICB courses are approved by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). This means that your qualification will be respected by employers across South Africa and even in other countries. Having an ICB qualification also shows that your skills meet the high standards of the business world, helping you stand out when applying for jobs.

Flexible Learning

You can study from home and learn at your own pace. This makes it easy to fit your studies around your job, family, or other responsibilities. With flexible learning, you can take your time and focus on each subject without the pressure of strict deadlines.

Real-World Skills

The courses focus on practical business skills that you can use in any workplace. You will learn how to manage money, lead a team, and handle office tasks. These skills will help you feel confident in a real business setting and prepare you for different job opportunities.

Affordable Payment Plans

Skills Academy offers payment options that make studying easier on your wallet. This makes it simpler to focus on your studies without worrying too much about the cost.

ICB Courses

ICB courses help you learn skills that businesses need. These courses focus on important areas like accounting, office work, and financial management. You can earn certificates and diplomas that are respected by employers. With flexible learning, you can study from home and move at your own pace.

ICB Financial Accounting

If You are good with numbers or want to learn how to manage money, ICB Financial Accounting courses are a great choice. These courses teach you how to handle finances, prepare budgets, and keep track of money. Here are the courses you can take:

ICB Office Administration Courses

Do you enjoy organising things and working with people? ICB Office Administration courses are perfect for managing day-to-day office tasks. You will learn how to run an office smoothly, manage staff, and handle important paperwork. Here are the courses available:

Is ICB A Diploma?

Not all ICB courses are diplomas. Some are certificates, and others are diplomas depending on the level. If you finish the higher courses, like the Certified Financial Accounting Diploma, You will earn a diploma that employers recognise. Diplomas help you qualify for higher-paying jobs.

What Are The Requirements For ICB Courses?

Each ICB course has different requirements. Some need you to have finished Grade 11, while others need you to complete lower-level courses first. Here’s a table showing the entry requirements and NQF levels for ICB Business Management courses:

CourseEntry RequirementsNQF Level
Small Business Financial Management CertificateGrade 11 or equivalentNQF Level 4
Business Management Office Admin Higher CertificateSmall Business Financial Management CertificateNQF Level 5
Business Management Financial Accounting DiplomaBusiness Management Office Admin Higher CertificateNQF Level 6

This table helps you see what you need before you start. The higher the NQF level, the more advanced the course is.

Can I Study ICB Without Matric?

Yes, you can! Many ICB courses don’t need a matric certificate. Courses like the Small Business Financial Management Certificate allow you to start with just Grade 11 or an equivalent qualification. This is a great way to build skills without needing a full matric.

What Is The ICB Pass Mark?

The pass mark for most ICB courses is 60%. This means you need at least 60% in your tests and assignments to pass. If you score 75% or more, You will earn a distinction, which looks great on your CV.

What Is The Pass Mark For The ICB Exam?

The pass mark for the ICB exams is also 60%. To pass the final exam, you need to score 60% or higher. Getting a higher mark will help you stand out when applying for jobs.

What Happens If You Fail An ICB Exam?

If you fail an ICB exam, don’t stress—you can rewrite it during the next exam session. There’s usually a small fee for this. Before rewriting, it is a good idea to review your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) and focus on areas where you need to improve.

Is ICB A Good Qualification?

An ICB qualification is a smart way to build business skills. It teaches you how to manage money, run an office, and lead a team. Employers across South Africa know and trust these courses, which can help you get a good job.

Is ICB Saqa Accredited?

Yes, ICB courses are officially recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This means the courses meet national standards and are trusted by employers. When you finish your course, your qualification will be accepted across South Africa.

Is ICB Recognised In South Africa?

ICB qualifications are recognised throughout South Africa. They are approved by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), which makes sure the courses teach the right skills for the workplace. This gives you a better chance of finding a job or moving up in your career.

Is Business Management In Demand?

Yes, business management is in high demand in South Africa. Many industries need people who can organise, lead, and help businesses grow. An ICB Business Management qualification gives you the skills needed to succeed in areas like finance, retail, and more.

What Jobs Can You Do With Business Management?

You could apply for a job as a financial assistant with a school. An ICB Business Management qualification opens the door to several careers. Here are a few:

  • Office Manager: You will keep the office running smoothly. This includes managing staff, organising schedules, and making sure daily tasks get done.
  • Financial Administrator: You will handle the company’s money. This involves tracking expenses, making budgets, and making sure bills are paid.
  • Human Resources Manager: You will help with hiring, training, and supporting employees. This job also makes sure workplace rules are followed.
  • Marketing Coordinator: You will help promote the company’s services. You will plan marketing campaigns, manage social media, and work with sales teams.

What Are The Four Types Of Business Management?

Business management has four main areas. Each one focuses on a different part of running a company. Together, they help businesses grow and stay on track.

Financial Management

Financial management is all about handling money. This means planning budgets, keeping track of spending, and making sure the business earns profits. A financial manager helps the company use its money wisely.

Human Resource Management

Human resource management deals with staff. This includes hiring, training, and supporting workers. HR managers also make sure the company follows labour laws and helps create a good work environment.

Marketing Management

Marketing management focuses on promoting the business. It includes running ads, managing social media, and planning promotions. A good marketing team helps bring in new customers and keep loyal ones.

Operations Management

Operations management is about making sure daily tasks run smoothly. This includes managing production, improving systems, and making sure services meet quality standards. A good operations manager helps the business stay organised and efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Finishing N4 to N6 Business Management usually takes around three years. Each level—N4, N5, and N6—takes about 12 months to complete. After passing all three levels, You will need to do 18 months of practical work to get your National Diploma.

The best subject for business management depends on what job you want. If you want to run a business or handle money, Financial Accounting and Entrepreneurship are great choices. If you enjoy working with people, go for Human Resource Management or Marketing to learn how to manage staff or promote a company’s services.

ICB means the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. It is a South African body that offers business, accounting, and finance courses. ICB qualifications are recognised across the country and help you gain practical skills for the job market.

An ICB qualification is a certificate or diploma in accounting, finance, or business management. It gives you real-world business skills and improves your chances of getting a good job. These qualifications are respected by employers and can help you grow in your career.

NQF Level 5 Bookkeeping is an advanced bookkeeping course in South Africa’s education system. It covers more complex financial topics like reports and management accounts. This level prepares you for higher-level bookkeeping jobs or further study in accounting.

Author: Jodie Jacobs

Last Updated: 28 February 2025

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