Getting an ICB qualification can help you build skills in finance, business, or office work. These courses are made to help you succeed and grow your career. In this article, you’ll learn about the requirements to study, the courses you can take, and how to get your ICB certificate.
What Are The Entry Requirements For ICB?
If you want to study an ICB course with Skills Academy, there are a few things you need. These requirements help make sure you’re ready for the course and can succeed. Here’s what you need:
- Basic English Skills: You should be able to read, write, and understand English because all lessons and exams are in this language.
- Matric or Similar Qualification: Some higher-level courses need you to have a matric or something equal to it.
- Minimum Age of 16: You must be at least 16 years old to start studying.
- Internet Access: You need a computer and internet connection for your assignments and online exams.
Can I Study ICB Without Matric?
Yes, you can! Some ICB courses don’t need matric. These beginner courses help you learn the basics and move on to more advanced levels when you’re ready. However, if you want to pursue your matric certificate after ICB, Skills Academy offers the following courses:
Adult Matric
If you never finished school, you can still earn a matric certificate as an adult. This programme lets you continue your education and opens up more job opportunities.
Matric Rewrite
Didn’t get the marks you wanted? A matric rewrite helps you improve your results by focusing on the subjects you need to redo.
Matric Upgrade
A matric upgrade lets you improve your final marks. This can help you qualify for better job opportunities or further studies.
What Is The ICB Pass Mark?
To pass an ICB course, you need to get at least 60% for your exams and assignments. This shows that you understand the material well enough to use it in real-life work situations. Your assignments contribute towards 30% of your marks while your final exams will contribute towards the other 70%
Can I Self-Study ICB Courses?
Yes, self-study is possible. It gives you the freedom to learn at your own pace, but you need to stay focused and manage your time well. Here are some tips to help:
- Create a Study Plan: Set a study schedule and stick to it. This helps you stay organised and meet deadlines.
- Use Good Resources: Study with reliable books and online materials so you can fully understand the topics.
- Practice with Old Papers: Doing past exam papers helps you learn the format and test your knowledge.
- Stay Motivated: Set goals and track your progress to stay on top of your studies.
What Qualification Is ICB?
An ICB qualification is a recognised certificate in business, finance, and office administration. It’s approved by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and is respected by employers across South Africa. Certain ICB Qualifications are also recognised by SAQA.
Which ICB Courses Can I Study?
ICB has different courses for business, bookkeeping, and office administration. The table below shows the courses and what each one teaches:
| Courses | Course Description |
|---|---|
| Junior Bookkeeper Course: ICB National Certificate | This course teaches the basics of bookkeeping, like keeping financial records and managing accounts. |
| Certified Senior Bookkeeping: ICB Certificate | Builds on basic skills by teaching financial statements, taxation, and management reports. |
| Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma | Helps you learn advanced accounting tasks and prepares you for high-level financial management jobs. |
| Small Business Financial Management Certificate | Teaches you how to manage small business finances, including budgeting and planning for growth. |
| Business Management Financial Accounting Diploma | Offers a full understanding of business management with a focus on financial planning and control. |
| Junior Office Administration: ICB National Certificate | Teaches basic office skills like managing admin tasks, organising work, and communicating clearly. |
| Junior Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate | Builds on the national certificate by teaching more advanced office management skills. |
| Certified Office Manager: ICB Diploma | Prepares you to handle office operations and lead a team with good management and planning skills. |
This table gives you an idea of which course suits your needs. You can start with an entry-level course and move on to more advanced qualifications as you grow.
What Does An ICB Do?
An ICB qualification gives you the skills to work in bookkeeping, office administration, and business management. You can work in different industries or even start your own business.
What Makes ICB Programmes So Successful?
ICB courses are known for being flexible and practical. They are recognised by employers and give you the skills needed for real jobs.
Flexible Study Options
You can study at your own pace, which makes it easy to balance your studies with work or personal responsibilities.
Recognised by Employers
ICB qualifications are well-known in South Africa, and many employers look for candidates with these certificates.
Easy to Move Up
You can start with a basic course and slowly work your way up to higher qualifications as you gain more skills.
Affordable Courses
ICB courses are affordable, and many institutions offer payment plans so you can pay in small amounts over time.
How Can I Get An ICB Certificate?
To get an ICB certificate, you must finish all your assignments, pass the final exams, and meet any other course requirements. Once you complete everything, you’ll be awarded a certificate that shows you’re ready for the workplace.
Where Can I Study ICB Courses?
You can study ICB courses with Skills Academy. They offer flexible learning options, so you can study from home, at your own pace. This is a great choice for anyone in South Africa who wants to balance their studies with work or family responsibilities.
How Can I Join ICB?
Joining ICB is easy. You just need to pick the course that fits your career goals. Once you’ve made your choice, you can sign up with Skills Academy and start learning.
How Do I Register As A New ICB Student?
It’s simple to register for an ICB course. Here is how you can do it:
- Choose Your Course: Pick the course that best matches your career plans. This helps you focus on learning the skills you really need.
- Fill in the Registration Form: Go to the Skills Academy website and complete the form with your personal information. This step gets you officially signed up.
- Send Your Documents: Upload or send copies of your ID and any previous certificates. This confirms your eligibility for the course.
- Confirm Your Place: Once your registration is accepted, you’ll get confirmation, and you can start studying when you’re ready.
When Can I Start?
You don’t have to wait for a specific date to start your ICB course. Skills Academy lets you enrol at any time of the year. This gives you the freedom to begin when it suits you best.
Is ICB A Good Qualification?
Yes, an ICB qualification is well-respected in South Africa. It’s recognised by employers and helps improve your job prospects. Here are some benefits of studying ICB:
- Trusted by Employers: Many businesses in South Africa value ICB qualifications. This makes it easier to find a job in your field.
- Flexible Study Options: Study from home and set your own schedule. You can balance your learning with other responsibilities.
- Build Your Career: You can start with beginner courses and move up to advanced levels as you gain more skills.
- Affordable Payment Plans: Skills Academy offers flexible payment plans to help make studying more affordable.
What NQF Level Is ICB?
ICB qualifications range from NQF Level 3 – NQF Level 5. The higher the level, the more advanced the qualification. Higher levels open up better job opportunities and higher-paying roles.
How Will I Be Assessed?
You’ll be assessed through assignments and exams. The assignments can be done at home, while the exams test how well you understand the course. To pass, you’ll need a score of at least 60%.
How Long Are ICB Exams?
ICB exams usually take 2 to 3 hours to complete. The exact time depends on the subject and course level. Exams check your knowledge and practical skills. Below is a breakdown of some of our ICB Courses’ lengths. To give you an idea of how long you would need to study for.
Junior Bookkeeper Course: ICB National Certificate
This beginner course covers the basics of bookkeeping and takes around 16 months to complete. You’ll learn how to record financial transactions and manage simple accounts. It’s a great starting point for a career in finance.
Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
This course teaches advanced accounting skills. The course takes 28 months to complete. You’ll learn about tax, business law, and financial reporting. It prepares you for senior financial positions.
Small Business Financial Management Certificate
This 12 month course is perfect if you want to run your own business. It teaches you how to handle budgets, manage business finances, and plan for growth.
Business Management Office Admin Higher Certificate
Learn how to manage an office effectively with this course in just 27 months. You’ll cover administration, communication, and organisational skills. It’s ideal for future office managers.
Business Management Financial Accounting Diploma
This 36 month diploma course focuses on both business and finance skills. It prepares you for leadership roles by teaching you how to manage company finances and business operations.
Junior Office Administration: ICB National Certificate
This beginner 24 month course covers essential office skills. You’ll learn how to handle basic admin tasks, organise files, and manage office communication.
Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate
This advanced 26 month course builds on the basics of office management. You’ll learn how to lead a team, manage projects, and handle daily business operations.
Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma
This 36 month diploma course prepares you for top office management roles. You’ll gain leadership skills and learn how to manage large office teams and complex operations.
What Happens If You Fail An ICB Exam?
If you fail an exam, you can rewrite it during the next session. You’ll need to pay a small fee for the rewrite. This gives you a chance to review your study material and improve your results. You will then obtain your ICB Course certificate. The certificate you receive will depend on your course. For instance, a certificate awarded for an Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma Course is a Diploma: Office Administration (Certified Office Manager) from FASSET.
How To Check ICB Results?
You can check your ICB results online through the official ICB student portal. You’ll also get an email when your results are ready. If you have any questions, you can contact Skills Academy for help.
Why Should I Study An ICB Course?
ICB courses are a great way to gain real-world skills in finance, business, and office work. These qualifications are recognised by employers all over South Africa. They help you grow in your career and open up new job opportunities.
What Are Your Options After ICB?
After finishing an ICB course, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take the next step in your career. Here are a few paths you can follow:
- Find a Job: Many businesses need people with bookkeeping and financial management skills. An ICB qualification can help you land a job in finance, office admin, or business management.
- Study Further: You can move on to higher-level courses, such as diplomas or advanced certificates. This will help you gain more skills and improve your job options.
- Start Your Own Business: If you’ve always wanted to run your own business, your ICB qualification gives you the skills to handle finances and manage operations.
- Get Promoted: Already working? An ICB qualification can help you move up in your company and take on leadership roles.
Is Bookkeeping In Demand?
Yes, bookkeeping is always in demand. Every business needs someone to manage their money and keep track of their finances. As long as businesses exist, bookkeepers will always have job opportunities.
Is Bookkeeping A Stressful Job?
Bookkeeping can be stressful during busy times, like tax season or the end of the financial year. However, staying organised and managing your time well can make the job easier. When you stay on top of your tasks, the stress level drops.
What Does A Bookkeeper Do?
A bookkeeper keeps track of a company’s finances. They record transactions, manage accounts, and help prepare financial reports. They also handle payments, invoices, and help make sure the company’s money is managed correctly.
Where Can I Work With A Bookkeeping Certificate?
You can work in a bookstore. An ICB bookkeeping certificate can help you find a job in many different places. Here are some examples:
- Accounting Firms: You’ll help manage the financial records of different businesses and assist in preparing reports. This is a great place to gain hands-on experience.
- Small Businesses: Many small companies need bookkeepers to handle their daily finances. You’ll manage their accounts, process invoices, and track spending.
- Retail Stores: Bookkeepers help keep track of sales and manage stock in retail businesses. You’ll make sure everything adds up at the end of the day.
- Non-Profit Organisations: Charities and non-profits need someone to track donations and manage expenses. You’ll help keep their finances organised.
Frequently Asked Questions
ICB offers both certificates and diplomas. You can start with a certificate and move on to a diploma as you complete more advanced courses. A diploma shows you’ve reached a higher level of study.
ICB stands for the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. This organisation offers recognised courses in bookkeeping, business management, and office administration.
ICB focuses on practical skills for bookkeeping and financial management, which are ideal for small businesses. CIMA, or the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, is a higher-level qualification aimed at management accountants who focus on business strategy and leadership.
To postpone an ICB exam, contact your course provider before the exam date. You may need to pay a small fee, and it’s important to apply before the deadline for the next session. Get at least eight hours of sleep to avoid postponing your exam due to fatigue.
No, but bookkeepers and accountants work closely together. A bookkeeper handles day-to-day financial tasks, like recording transactions and managing invoices. An accountant uses that information to prepare reports, offer financial advice, and help businesses make decisions.
Author: Jodie Jacobs
