If you are aiming for a career in an office, the ICB Office Administration programme is a smart choice. This guide will explain how the programme works and what you need to get started. We will also cover the course options, entry requirements and assessments.
What Is ICB Office Administration?
The ICB Office Administration course teaches you the skills needed to manage daily office tasks. you will learn how to organise paperwork, handle communication, and run office systems. This course is a great fit if you want to build a career in office management.
Is An ICB A Diploma?
Yes, the ICB offers both certificates and diplomas. You start with beginner-level courses and work your way up to more advanced ones. Completing all the levels earns you a diploma that is recognised across South Africa.
Office Administration Short Courses
Short courses help you learn specific skills quickly. They are flexible and easy to finish in less time. You can explore different office administration short courses offered by Skills Academy.
Medical Receptionist Courses
Medical Receptionist courses teach you how to manage reception duties in a healthcare setting. You will learn how to help patients, schedule appointments, and handle records. Here are our available medical receptionist courses:
- Medical Office Receptionist Short Course
- Medical Office Receptionist Short Certificate Course
- Medical Office Receptionist Short Comprehensive Course
Professional Secretary Courses
A professional secretary is a secretary who specifically specializes in assisting employers in a professional course environment. These courses help you manage office schedules and assist with administrative tasks. Here are some professional secretary courses offered by us:
Personal Assistant Courses
Our personal assistant courses can be completed in less than a year. Personal assistant courses teach you how to handle meetings, manage tasks, and help managers with their daily responsibilities. Here are the personal assistant courses offered by Skills Academy:
Office Administration Courses At TVET College
Colleges in South Africa offer ICB Office Administration courses for students who want practical office skills. you will learn how to manage office systems and handle important duties. Here is a breakdown of the available courses:
| Courses | Course Description | Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Office Administration: ICB National Certificate | Learn basic office tasks like organising paperwork and managing files. | Matric or equivalent |
| Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate | Focuses on advanced skills, including managing finances and leading office operations. | Completion of National Certificate |
| Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma | Teaches leadership and advanced office management skills. | Completion of Higher Certificate |
Each course helps you move to the next level of learning. The more you learn, the better your job opportunities will be.
Office Administration Assessments To Be Completed
During the ICB Office Administration programme, you will need to complete assignments and exams. These assessments help check your understanding and prepare you for real job challenges.
ICB Office Administration Course Assessments
Each subject has three assignments and one final exam. Your 3 assignments will form a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) that is worth 30% of your course mark. While your final exam is worth 70% of your course mark. Passing both the assignments and the exam helps you move to the next level.
Office Administration Short Course Assessments
Short courses don’t require formal exams. Instead, you will complete a Portfolio of Evidence (POE), which includes assignments and tasks to show your understanding. You must complete a group of assignments and a test to pass our Office Administration short courses.
What Happens If You Fail An ICB Exam?
You may not pass your ICB Office Administration course. However, do not go to your room and panic. If you do not pass the exam, there are a few things you can do. Here they are listed below:
- Re-register for the exam: Sign up to take the exam again at the next available session.
- Review your results: Look at the feedback and focus on improving weak areas.
- Get extra help: A tutor can help you understand tough topics and prepare for your next exam.
- Redo assignments: Boost your marks by completing extra tasks if needed.
What Requirements Are Needed For Office Administration?
For short courses you are only required to speak English. However, each ICB Office Administration Course has a different entry requirement. For, instance the Junior Bookkeeper Course: ICB National Certificate requires students to have a matric certificate to complete it. You can see the table above to find out what qualification you need to study your course.
However, to study with our distance learning college you only need to meet these basic requirements:
- Be able to read, write, and understand English
- Have a computer and internet access
- Know how to communicate well
- Be ready to learn
Be Able to Read, Write, and Understand English
The lessons and assignments are in English. you will need basic reading and writing skills to follow the course material and complete your tasks.
Have a Computer and Internet Access
This course is offered online. you will need a reliable internet connection and a computer to access your study materials and submit assignments.
Know How to Communicate Well
Clear communication is essential for office work. you will need to send emails, make phone calls, and interact with clients and co-workers.
Be Ready to Learn
This course requires focus and commitment. Being motivated and finishing assignments on time will help you succeed.
Can I Study Office Admin Without Matric?
Yes, you can study office administration without matric. Skills Academy offers short courses that focus on practical skills to help you qualify for office jobs.
Can I Study ICB Without Matric?
Some ICB courses are open to students without matric. Our ICB Office Administration courses require a matric or equivalent certificate. These entry-level courses help you build skills and progress to higher qualifications later. If you want to complete the course but do not have matric you can try completing an Adult Matric Certificate first.
What Is The ICB Pass Mark?
The ICB pass mark is 60%. This includes the total score from your assignments and exams. You will need to meet this mark to pass each subject.
Can I Do Office Administration Without Maths?
Yes, you can study office administration without advanced maths. Basic maths skills are helpful, but most of the course focuses on organising and managing office tasks.
How Long Does An Office Administration Course Take?
Our Medical Receptionist Courses can be completed in 2.5 – 3 years. The time it takes to finish an office administration course depends on which course you choose. Some courses are quick and take just a few months. Others can take up to three years to eight years if you are aiming for a full diploma.
ICB Office Administration Courses
ICB Office Administration courses are divided into three main levels. Each one builds on the skills you’ve learned in the previous course.
- Junior Office Administration: ICB National Certificate: This beginner course takes around 24 months. It covers the basics of office work, like handling paperwork and communicating clearly.
- Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate: This intermediate course takes about 26 months. It dives deeper into managing teams and handling business finances.
- Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma: This final course also takes 36 months. It prepares you for leadership roles, teaching you how to run an office smoothly.
Office Administration Short Courses
Short courses are great if you want to learn fast. These courses focus on specific skills for office work. You can finish them in 2 to 3.5 years, depending on how quickly you study.
Short Courses
These courses are usually 4 months and cover the basics of office administration. you will learn how to handle daily tasks like filing documents and managing schedules. They’re perfect if you are new to office work.
Short Certificate Courses
Short certificate courses are about 8 months and go a bit deeper than basic short courses. They help you improve your skills and prepare for more responsibility in an office setting. Most students finish these in about 7 months.
Short Comprehensive Certificate Courses
These courses cover advanced office skills. You will learn how to manage a team and handle office operations. They usually take about 12 months to complete.
How Many Years Do You Study For Office Administration?
It can take up to 7-8 years to finish all levels of ICB office administration. If you complete the National Certificate, Higher Certificate, and Diploma, the total study time will be around 138 months. Short courses are quicker and can be done in less than a year.
How Many Subjects Are There In Office Administration?
There are 13 subjects across the full ICB Office Administration programme. Each subject focuses on a different skill that will help you succeed in an office role. The further you go in the full ICB Administration programme the more in depth the modules will be on some of these subjects.
Introduction to Business English
This subject teaches you how to read, write, and speak professionally. You will learn how to write emails, reports, and business letters. You can also apply what you learn in this course when you are required to introduce yourself during prospective work meetings.
Business and Office Administration 1
You will learn the basics of running an office. This includes handling paperwork, scheduling, and managing daily tasks. You can use the skills you learn here to organise your study material for optimal productivity.
Bookkeeping to Trial Balance
This subject focuses on financial record-keeping. You will learn how to balance books and track business spending. You can buy a ledger book to practice bookkeeping exercises in.
Business Literacy
You will develop skills like reading business documents and working with numbers. It helps you understand basic finance and communication.
Marketing Management and Public Relations
You will learn how businesses promote their services and build good relationships with customers. This subject also covers social media and advertising.
Business Law and Administrative Practice
This subject covers workplace laws and office rules. You will learn about contracts, company policies, and employee rights.
Cost and Management Accounting
You will learn how to keep track of a business’s spending and make smart financial choices. This helps businesses stay profitable.
Business and Office Administration 2
You will build on what you learned in the first course. This subject focuses on managing staff and improving office systems.
Human Resources Management and Labour Relations
This subject teaches you how to hire and train employees. You will also learn about South African labour laws and workers’ rights.
Economics
You will learn how businesses grow and survive in different market conditions. Topics include supply and demand, pricing, and budgeting.
Business and Office Administration 3
This advanced subject prepares you for leadership roles. You will learn how to manage projects and run an office team.
Financial Statements
You will learn how to create and read financial reports. This is a useful skill for handling a company’s money.
Management
This subject focuses on leadership skills. You will learn how to motivate a team, solve problems, and make smart decisions.
Can I Study Directly With ICB?
No, you cannot register directly with the ICB. You need to sign up through an approved training provider like Skills Academy. They will help you with your registration and provide study materials.
Where Can I Study An ICB Course?
With Skills Academy, you can study from anywhere in South Africa that has a Wi-Fi connection such as a mall. Here are some places where you can study comfortably:
- At home: A quiet space helps you focus better while studying.
- At a coffee shop: A relaxed space for those who enjoy a lively environment.
- At a library: Libraries offer a quiet area with helpful resources.
- At a co-working space: you will be surrounded by other people who are working, which can help you stay motivated.
How Can I Get An ICB Certificate?
You must first register for your ICB Course. Then to get your ICB certificate, you must complete all your assignments and pass the final exams. Once you are done, you will receive a certificate that employers across South Africa recognise.
Register With The ICB
You need to register through a provider like Skills Academy. You can register anytime but, there are specific dates when you need to register for ICB exams. Therefore, keep that in mind when you decide to register for ICB Courses with us.
Here is how our application process works:
- Choose your course: Pick the ICB course that suits your career goals.
- Complete the application form: Fill out your personal details and course preferences.
- Send your documents: Provide a copy of your ID and proof of payment.
- Make payment: Pay your registration fees to confirm your place.
- Receive your study materials: Once registered, you will get everything you need to start learning.
Why Choose To Study With Skills Academy?
Skills Academy makes studying easy and flexible. You can study from home, and they provide full support throughout your course.
Affordable Payment Plans
You don’t need to pay the full course fee upfront. Skills Academy offers flexible payment plans to suit your budget.
Flexible Study Options
You can study at your own pace, making it easier to fit your studies around your schedule. Find out how distance learning works.
Expert Tutor Support
If you need help, tutors are available to guide you through difficult topics and answer your questions.
Recognised Qualifications
Your qualifications are accredited and respected by employers, helping you find better job opportunities across South Africa.
Is ICB A Good Qualification?
Yes, an ICB qualification is a great choice if you want to work in business, finance, or office administration. It teaches real skills that employers need. With this qualification, you can apply for jobs in many industries.
Is ICB SAQA Accredited?
Yes, ICB courses are accredited by SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority). This means they meet South Africa’s education standards. When you complete an ICB course, you have a qualification that is recognised by employers.
Benefits Of Having An Office Administration Qualification
An Office Administration qualification helps you get a job and build a career. It gives you the skills needed in almost every business. Here are some reasons why it’s a good choice:
- More Job Opportunities: Many companies need office workers. This qualification helps you find work in schools, hospitals, offices, and more.
- Better Salary Options: Employers pay more for people who have the right training. With this qualification, you can earn more than someone without formal education.
- Useful Workplace Skills: you will learn how to organise office tasks, manage schedules, and handle documents. These skills are important for office jobs.
- Career Growth: After gaining experience, you can apply for higher positions, like office manager or supervisor.
Which Course Is Best For Administration?
The best course depends on what you want to do. If you want a strong qualification, the ICB Office Administration Diploma is a great option. It teaches you how to run an office, manage paperwork, and handle business tasks.
Other ICB Courses For You
ICB offers more than just office administration. You can also study business management or accounting. These courses give you different career options.
ICB Business Management Courses
Our Small Business Financial Management ICB Course is only a year long course. These ICB Business Management courses help you learn business skills, leadership, and financial management. Here they are listed below:
- Small Business Financial Management Course
- Higher Certificate in Business Management Office Admin Course
- Diploma in Business Management Financial Accounting Course
ICB Financial Accounting Courses
The ICB Financial Accounting courses range from 16-36 months. These courses teach bookkeeping and financial management. The Junior Bookkeeping Course is a 16 month accredited course that provides you with great introductory knowledge on bookkeeping. Here they are listed below:
Frequently Asked Questions
Studying office administration gives you skills that help businesses run smoothly. Every company needs organised people to manage daily tasks. With this qualification, you can apply for different jobs.
You could work as a receptionist, where you welcome visitors, answer phone calls, and help customers. Another option is becoming a personal assistant, where you help a manager with meetings, schedules, and office work. If you get more experience, you can become an office manager, making sure everything in the office runs well.
Office administration skills are needed everywhere. You can work in schools, hospitals, offices, and government buildings. Every business needs staff to help keep things organised. Here is breakdown of places where you can apply for work after your ICB Administration course:
- Schools: Schools need staff to organise student files, assist teachers, and schedule meetings.
- Hospitals and Clinics: Medical offices need people to handle patient records, set up appointments, and help doctors.
- Corporate Offices: Big companies need workers to manage emails, meetings, and office work.
- Government Departments: Government offices need staff to organise documents and assist the public.
Yes, office administration jobs are always available. Every business needs organised workers to manage office tasks. Without them, businesses cannot function properly.
You can find jobs in small and large businesses. Many industries, from retail to healthcare, need office workers. If you have this qualification, you will always have job options.
Office administration keeps businesses running. It involves planning, communication, and organisation. Here are some of the main tasks:
- Planning Office Tasks: Making schedules, booking meetings, and keeping things on track.
- Handling Communication: Answering phone calls, replying to emails, and passing messages to staff.
- Managing Records: Organising paperwork, updating files, and keeping documents safe.
- Supervising Office Equipment: Checking that computers, printers, and other machines are working.
- Following Office Policies: Making sure that company rules are followed.
SAQA and NQF help organise education in South Africa. They make sure qualifications meet high standards. Understanding them helps you choose the right course.
SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) checks that courses and training meet the correct quality level. The NQF (National Qualifications Framework) ranks courses from entry-level to advanced. This ensures that qualifications are recognised and useful for finding jobs.
Author: Jodie Jacobs
