The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) offers a range of courses designed to equip students with essential business and financial skills. These courses are accessible online, providing flexibility for learners to study at their own pace. Whether you’re aiming for a career in bookkeeping, office administration, or business management, ICB courses online can pave the way.
ICB Courses Online in South Africa
In South Africa, many students choose to study ICB courses online. This option is great because it lets you learn from anywhere in the country. One of the colleges offering these online courses is Skills Academy. They provide a range of ICB programs to help you start your career in business or finance.
Which Colleges Offer ICB Courses?
Skills Academy is a college in South Africa that offers ICB courses. They provide various programs to help you gain the skills needed for a successful career. With their distance learning options, you can study from home and complete your coursework at times that suit you best.
ICB Courses at Skills Academy
Skills Academy offers several ICB courses to help you build a strong foundation in business and finance. These courses are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your chosen field.
Here are some of the ICB courses available at Skills Academy:
- Junior Office Administration: ICB National CertificateLearn the basics of office administration to keep an office running smoothly.
- Office Administration: ICB Higher CertificateGain advanced skills in office management and administration.
- Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB DiplomaPrepare for a leadership role in office administration.
- Junior Bookkeeper Course: ICB National CertificateUnderstand the fundamentals of bookkeeping and financial record-keeping.
- Certified Senior Bookkeeping: ICB CertificateDevelop advanced bookkeeping skills for more complex financial tasks.
- Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National DiplomaLearn about financial accounting techniques and practices.
- Small Business Financial Management CertificateAcquire skills to manage finances in a small business setting.
- Business Management Office Admin Higher CertificateCombine business management principles with office administration expertise.
- Business Management Financial Accounting DiplomaGain comprehensive knowledge in business management and financial accounting.
These courses are structured to help you progress from basic to advanced levels, earning qualifications as you complete each stage. This approach allows you to build your skills and confidence step by step.
ICB Bookkeeping Courses
Bookkeeping is an essential skill in managing a company’s finances. Skills Academy offers ICB bookkeeping courses that teach you how to record financial transactions accurately. These courses are designed to provide you with the practical knowledge needed to perform bookkeeping tasks effectively.
Here are the ICB bookkeeping courses available at Skills Academy:
- Junior Bookkeeper Course: ICB National CertificateLearn the basics of bookkeeping, including how to record financial transactions and maintain accurate financial records.
- Certified Senior Bookkeeping: ICB CertificateBuild on your existing knowledge to handle more complex bookkeeping tasks, such as preparing financial statements and managing payroll.
- Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National DiplomaAdvance your skills to include financial reporting, taxation, and business law, preparing you for a career in financial accounting.
These courses are designed to take you from a beginner to an advanced level, providing you with the skills needed to pursue a career in bookkeeping and accounting.
By enrolling in these ICB courses at Skills Academy, you can gain valuable skills that are in demand in the business world. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to enhance your current qualifications, these programs offer a pathway to success.
ICB Course Requirements and Duration
Before enrolling in an ICB course, it’s important to understand the entry requirements and the time commitment involved. This ensures you choose a program that aligns with your educational background and career goals.
What are the ICB courses requirements?
ICB courses have varying entry requirements depending on the level and field of study. Here’s a general overview:
- Bookkeeping Courses: Completion of Grade 10.
- Business Management Courses: Completion of Grade 11.
- Office Administration Courses: Completion of Matric (Grade 12) or an equivalent qualification.
These prerequisites ensure that students have the foundational knowledge needed for the course content.
What are the entry requirements for ICB?
In addition to the specific course requirements, all ICB students should be proficient in reading and writing in English, as the course materials and examinations are conducted in this language. This proficiency is crucial for understanding the coursework and successfully completing assessments.
Can I study ICB without matric?
Yes, you can pursue certain ICB courses without a Matric certificate. For instance, the Bookkeeping and Business Management courses require only Grades 10 and 11, respectively. This provides an opportunity for individuals who haven’t completed Matric to still acquire valuable skills and qualifications.
How long is the ICB course?
The duration of ICB courses varies based on the specific program and the student’s study pace. Here’s a general guideline:
- Short Courses: Approximately 4 to 6 months.
- Certificates: Around 12 months.
- Comprehensive Certificates: Between 18 to 24 months.
- Diplomas: Up to 36 months.
These timeframes are estimates, and actual durations may vary based on individual progress and study methods.
ICB Course Fees and Accreditation
Understanding the financial investment and the credibility of the qualification is crucial when considering an educational program. ICB courses are both affordable and widely recognized, making them a valuable addition to your professional credentials.
ICB course fees
The fees associated with ICB courses include registration and examination costs. Here’s a breakdown:
- Annual Student Registration Fee: R470
- Assessment Fee for Digital PoE (Per Subject): R850
- Assessment Postponement Fee (Per Subject): R350
- Assessment Late Entry Fee (Per Subject): R560
- Assessment Re-mark and Examiner’s Report (Per Subject): R1,200
- Private Invigilator Admin Fee: R2,100
- Printed ICB Programme Certificate: R400
- FASSET Certificate Reprint: R400
- Workplace PoE Assessments (Learnership): R1,500
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)/Exemption Application Fee: R550
- RPL/Exemption Fee per Subject (No PoE Required): R450
- RPL PoE Fee per Subject (PoE to be Completed): R995
Please note that these fees are subject to change, and it’s advisable to contact our admissions office for the most current information.
Is ICB Recognised in South Africa?
Yes, ICB qualifications are recognized in South Africa. The courses are accredited by the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), ensuring they meet the educational standards required for various industries. This recognition enhances employability and validates the quality of the education received.
Is ICB internationally Recognised?
Indeed, ICB qualifications have international recognition. This global acknowledgment allows graduates to pursue career opportunities beyond South Africa, making it a valuable credential for those considering working abroad.
Is ICB a good qualification?
Absolutely, an ICB qualification is highly regarded. It equips students with practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable in the workplace. The courses are designed to meet industry standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their professional roles. Additionally, the flexibility of online learning through institutions like Skills Academy makes it accessible to a wide range of learners.
In conclusion, pursuing an ICB course offers a pathway to acquiring valuable skills and recognized qualifications, both locally and internationally. Whether you’re starting your career or seeking to enhance your existing credentials, ICB courses provide a solid foundation for success.
ICB Certification and Qualification Levels
The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) offers a range of courses designed to equip students with essential skills in bookkeeping, accounting, office administration, and business management.
These courses are structured across different levels, allowing learners to progress from foundational knowledge to advanced expertise. Each qualification is recognized on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), ensuring that the education meets national standards.
What qualification is ICB?
ICB qualifications are recognized certifications in fields like bookkeeping, accounting, office administration, and business management. These qualifications are structured to provide practical skills and knowledge, enabling students to perform effectively in various business environments.
Is an ICB a diploma?
Yes, the ICB offers diploma courses. Depending on the level and field of study, students can earn diplomas upon successful completion of the required modules and assessments.
What is ICB level?
ICB levels refer to the stages of qualifications offered, each aligned with specific NQF levels. These levels indicate the complexity and depth of learning.
| ICB Qualification | NQF Level |
|---|---|
| Junior Bookkeeping Course | 3 |
| Senior Bookkeeping Course | 4 |
| Technical Financial Accounting Course | 5 |
| Certified Financial Accounting Course | 6 |
| Small Business Financial Management Certificate | 4 |
| Higher Certificate in Business Management | 5 |
| National Diploma in Business Management | 6 |
| National Certificate in Office Administration | 5 |
| Higher Certificate in Office Administration | 5 |
| National Diploma in Office Administration | 6 |
Note: The above table provides examples of ICB qualifications and their corresponding NQF levels.
How can I get ICB certificate?
To obtain an ICB certificate:
- Enroll in an ICB-accredited course: Choose a course that aligns with your career goals.
- Complete the required modules: Study and pass all the subjects in your chosen course.
- Submit a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE): This includes assignments and tests completed during your studies.
- Pass the final assessment: Achieve the required marks in the final exam.
Upon meeting all these requirements, you will be awarded an ICB certificate for your qualification.
What is the ICB pass mark?
To pass an ICB course, you need to achieve an overall mark of at least 60%. This is calculated by combining your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) and final exam marks. The PoE contributes 30% to your final mark, while the final exam accounts for 70%. Additionally, you must score at least 50% in the final exam to pass.
What happens if you fail an ICB exam?
If you do not achieve the required 60% overall pass mark or fail to score at least 50% in the final exam, you will need to retake the exam. This involves registering for a new exam date and paying the associated fees. It’s essential to prepare thoroughly to improve your chances of success on the next attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
ICB stands for the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. It’s an independent external examination body that provides qualifications in bookkeeping, accounting, office administration, and business management. ICB has been offering these courses since 1931, helping students gain valuable skills for their careers.
Both ICB and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) offer qualifications in the financial field, but they differ in focus and levels:
| ICB | CIMA |
|---|---|
| Offers courses up to Diploma level in bookkeeping, accounting, office administration, and business management. | Provides advanced diplomas and professional qualifications in management accounting. |
| Focuses on practical skills for immediate application in various business environments. | Emphasizes strategic management accounting skills for higher-level positions. |
ICB qualifications can serve as a foundation, and students may choose to further their studies with CIMA for advanced opportunities.
In South Africa, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) work together to maintain education standards:
- SAQA: This is the organization responsible for overseeing the development and implementation of the NQF. SAQA ensures that qualifications meet national standards and are recognized across the country.
- NQF: This is a system that classifies and organizes qualifications based on their complexity and learning outcomes. It has different levels, starting from Level 1 up to Level 10, helping learners understand the progression of their education.
In simple terms, SAQA manages and monitors the NQF to ensure quality and consistency in education.
Becoming a certified bookkeeper in South Africa involves the following steps:
- Enroll in an Accredited Course: Sign up for a bookkeeping course accredited by a recognized body like the ICB. Skills Academy offers such courses that you can study through distance learning.
- Complete the Course: Study the course material and complete all required assignments and exams. These courses are designed to equip you with practical bookkeeping skills.
- Gain Practical Experience: While studying, seek opportunities to apply your knowledge in real-world settings, such as internships or part-time positions.
- Obtain Certification: After successfully completing the course and gaining experience, you will receive a certificate recognizing you as a qualified bookkeeper.
By following these steps, you can build a solid foundation for a career in bookkeeping.
While both bookkeepers and accountants work with financial information, their roles differ:
- Bookkeeper: Responsible for recording daily financial transactions, maintaining accurate ledgers, and ensuring that financial records are up to date.
- Accountant: Analyzes and interprets financial data, prepares reports, and provides strategic financial advice. Accountants often have more advanced qualifications and may handle complex financial tasks.
In essence, bookkeepers handle the day-to-day recording of financial data, while accountants focus on interpreting that data to inform business decisions.
Author: Marcelle de Klerk
