Are you thinking about taking an ICB course? You might be wondering if ICB is recognised in South Africa. The good news is, yes, it is!
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about ICB qualifications. We will cover whether they are accepted by employers, recognised in other countries, and where you can study them. We will also explain why Skills Academy is a smart choice for your studies.
Is ICB Internationally Recognised?
Yes, ICB qualifications are recognised worldwide. Although these courses are designed mainly for South Africans, many international companies also accept them.
Having an ICB qualification shows employers that you have strong skills in bookkeeping, finance, and business management. These skills are needed in many industries around the world.
Institutions That Recognise ICB Courses
Locally the South African Institute of Tax Professionals will recognise ICB qualifications. However, there are many more institutions across the world that recognise ICB qualifications. Here are four more types of organisations that will recognise ICB qualifications:
- Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA): If you have an ICB certificate, you can skip some exams with ACCA, saving time and money.
- Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA): Lets you continue your studies in management accounting.
- International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB): Accepts ICB qualifications for bookkeeping jobs in other countries.
This means your ICB qualification is useful in South Africa and beyond.
Is ICB SAQA Accredited?
Yes, ICB courses are accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This means your qualification meets national standards and is accepted by employers in South Africa. SAQA accreditation also ensures your course follows the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
This helps employers trust the qualification and the skills you have gained. Our courses are also accredited by the Quality Council For Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
How Do I Know If My Qualification Is SAQA Accredited?
You can call SAQA using the number on their website to determine whether the SAQA ID of your ICB Course qualification is real. If your qualification is registered with them they should give it to you within a few days. Or You can check if your ICB qualification is officially listed on SAQA’s website. The process to do this is simple. Just follow these steps:
- Go to the SAQA website.
- Click on “Search Qualifications.”
- Type your course name or code in the search box.
- Check the results to find your course.
- Confirm that the qualification number matches what your school gave you.
This helps you make sure your qualification is real and accepted.
Is ICB SAICA Accredited?
No, ICB courses are not accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA). SAICA is mainly for chartered accountants, while ICB focuses on bookkeeping, financial management, and small business finance.
Even though ICB isn’t SAICA-accredited, it is still recognised by important global organisations like ACCA and CIMA.
Is ICB SETA Accredited?
Yes, ICB courses are accredited by the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA). This ensures that your qualification follows South African vocational training standards.
With SETA’s approval, ICB courses give you practical skills to help you find a job.
Can I Study Directly With ICB?
No, you cannot study directly with ICB. Instead, they work with other learning institutions that offer their courses. These schools provide study materials, support, and help you prepare for exams. One of the top providers offering ICB courses is Skills Academy.
Where Can I Study An ICB Course?
You can study ICB courses through Skills Academy. They offer distance learning, so you can study from home. You can also set your own schedule, which is perfect if you have a job or a busy life.
Why Study ICB Courses Through Skills Academy?
Skills Academy makes learning easy and flexible. You get the support you need, and there are affordable payment plans to help you manage your fees. The table below discusses the benefits of studying with us:
| Benefits | Why These Benefits Matter |
|---|---|
| Flexible Study Options | You can study from home, on your own schedule, which is perfect if you are busy. |
| Affordable Payment Plans | Spread your payments out over time, making the course easier to afford. |
| Expert Support | Friendly tutors and helpful academic staff guide you every step of the way. |
| Nationally Recognised Qualification | Your certificate will be accepted across South Africa, giving you more job opportunities. |
These benefits make Skills Academy a smart choice if you are looking to earn an ICB qualification.
ICB Courses
ICB offers courses in bookkeeping, business management, and office administration. They are specifically for those who are interested in completing a matric equivalent qualification. It does not matter if you are starting fresh or improving your skills, there is a course for you.
ICB Business Management Programme
The Business Management Programme teaches you how to manage a business. It is perfect if you want to run your own company or lead a team. Here are the courses you can take:
- Small Business Financial Management Certificate: Teaches you how to manage money in a small business.
- Business Management Office Admin Higher Certificate: Focuses on office management skills.
- Business Management Financial Accounting Diploma: Helps you manage finances and handle business accounting.
ICB Office Administration Programme
This programme gives you the skills you need to run an office smoothly. It’s ideal if you want to work in administration or become an office manager.
The courses include:
- Junior Office Administration: ICB National Certificate: Teaches basic office skills.
- Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate: Covers advanced office management.
- Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma: Prepares you for high-level office jobs.
Accredited Bookkeeping Courses South Africa
If you want to become a bookkeeper, ICB offers courses that are recognised across South Africa. These qualifications can help you get a job in finance or accounting.
Here are the courses available:
- Junior Bookkeeper Course: ICB National Certificate: Teaches you the basics of bookkeeping.
- Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma: Covers more advanced bookkeeping and accounting tasks.
- Certified Senior Bookkeeping: ICB Certificate: For experienced bookkeepers who want to improve their skills.
Which Is The Best Bookkeeping Qualification?
The best qualification depends on what you need. If you are new to bookkeeping, the Junior Bookkeeper Course is a great start. If you want to go deeper, the Technical Financial Accounting Diploma offers more advanced training.
How To Get An ICB Certificate
To get your ICB certificate, you must complete all your assignments and pass the exams. Once you have finished, you will receive an official certificate from ICB.
Application Step 1
Sign up for a course through a registered provider like Skills Academy. You can apply online by filling out the registration form with your personal and course details. Once you have submitted the form, the institution will contact you to finalise your enrolment.
Application Step 2
Fill in the registration form and submit the required documents, such as a copy of your ID and proof of your previous qualifications. Make sure all the information is correct before sending it in. This step confirms that you meet the entry requirements for your chosen course.
Application Step 3
Pay the fees to start your course. Skills Academy offers flexible payment plans to help manage costs. Once the payment is received, you will gain access to your study materials and support resources.
Application Step 4
Complete the assignments and prepare for your exams. Each subject usually has three open-book assignments that you can complete from home. These assignments are designed to help you practise and apply what you have learned.
Application Step 5
Pass the exams, and you will receive your ICB certificate. Exams are set by ICB, and you can take them at approved exam centres or through online assessments. Once you have passed, your qualification will be officially recognised.
Can I Study ICB Without Matric?
Yes, you can study ICB courses even if you do not have matric. These courses are open to anyone who meets the basic requirements. This makes it easier for you to gain skills and get a recognised qualification, even if you did not finish high school.
To enrol, you need to meet a few basic requirements:
- read and write in English.
- basic maths skills.
- interested in bookkeeping or business management.
- Have a phone, tablet, or computer for online learning.
- A stable internet connection
Ability to Read and Write in English
All the study material is in English, so it is important that you can read and write in this language. This will help you understand your lessons and complete assignments. You will also need these skills to pass your exams.
Basic Maths Skills
You will need to be comfortable with basic maths, like adding, subtracting, and working with percentages. This is important for tasks like keeping financial records. Good maths skills will help you succeed in the course.
Interest in Bookkeeping or Business Management
Having a strong interest in finance or business will keep you motivated. If you like working with numbers or managing tasks, ICB courses are a good choice. This passion will help you stay focused and complete the course successfully.
Access to a Phone, Tablet, or Computer
You will need a device to access online lessons and submit your assignments. This could be a phone, tablet, or computer. Having a reliable device makes studying easier.
Stable Internet Connection
A good internet connection will help you download materials, attend online lessons, and submit your work on time. You will also need it to communicate with tutors. A stable connection ensures you do not miss important updates.
What Is The ICB Pass Mark?
To pass an ICB exam, you need at least 60%. This score shows that you understand the material and are ready to use what you have learned. A higher score can improve your chances of getting a better job.
What Happens If You Fail An ICB Exam?
If you fail an exam, you can try again in the next exam session. You will need to register for the exam again and pay a fee. Many learning centres, like Skills Academy, can help you prepare for a second attempt.
Is ICB A Good Qualification?
Yes, an ICB qualification is well-respected in South Africa. Employers know that ICB teaches real-world skills in finance, bookkeeping, and business management. This qualification can help you find stable work in many industries.
What Makes ICB Programmes So Successful?
ICB courses are successful because they focus on skills you can use in real jobs. These courses are flexible, and they teach you things that employers are looking for.
Benefits of studying ICB courses include:
- Flexible Learning: Study from home at your own speed while balancing work or family life.
- Recognised Qualifications: Employers across South Africa and other countries accept these qualifications.
- Career Growth: ICB qualifications can help you get better jobs and promotions.
- Practical Skills: You will learn hands-on skills that are needed in the workplace.
Is An ICB A Diploma?
Yes, some ICB courses are diplomas. These are nationally recognised qualifications in South Africa. They help you qualify for better jobs and open doors to further studies.
Business Management Financial Accounting Diploma
The Business Management Financial Accounting Diploma teaches you how to handle business finances. You will learn about budgeting, financial reports, and tax returns. This diploma prepares you for finance and management roles in different industries.
Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma
The Office Administration: Certified Office Manager ICB Diploma focuses on managing office operations. You will learn about office communication, leadership, and staff management. This diploma can help you move into senior office positions.
Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
The Technical Financial Accounting Diploma teaches advanced accounting skills. You will study tax processes, business law, and preparing financial statements. This diploma is perfect if you want to specialise in accounting.
How To Become A Certified Bookkeeper In South Africa
Becoming a certified bookkeeper in South Africa is a simple process. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Complete an Accredited Course: Sign up for a recognised ICB bookkeeping course to learn the skills needed for the job.
- Pass All Required Exams: Take and pass the exams set by ICB to prove your knowledge and skills.
- Register with a Professional Body: Join the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) or a similar group to boost your professional status.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in a bookkeeping role for at least 12 to 18 months to gain hands-on experience.
- Keep Learning: Take extra courses or attend workshops to improve your skills and advance your career.
Where Should I Go After ICB?
After finishing an ICB course, you can start working or continue learning. Many students choose to take more advanced courses or gain more experience in the workplace. Here are some careers you could pursue with ICB Qualifications.
Bookkeeper
As a bookkeeper, you will track financial records and make sure accounts are up to date. Every business needs someone in this role. It is a great starting point for a career in finance.
Financial Clerk
Financial clerks help manage accounts, payroll, and billing. They also work closely with accountants. This role is a good way to gain valuable experience in finance.
Office Administrator
Office administrators handle daily business tasks like scheduling, organising meetings, and managing paperwork. An ICB qualification can help you apply for administrative roles in many industries.
Small Business Manager
If you want to run your own small business, ICB courses give you the skills to manage finances and operations. Many small business owners use these qualifications to handle their company’s accounts. This role offers independence and the chance to grow your own company.
What Is The Difference Between A Bookkeeper And An Accountant?
The main difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant is the type of work they do. A bookkeeper keeps track of daily transactions and ensures financial records are correct. An accountant analyses financial information, prepares reports, and offers advice based on those records. Bookkeeping is a good starting point if you plan to become an accountant later.
Frequently Asked Questions
ICB stands for the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. It is a South African organisation that offers courses in bookkeeping, business management, and financial accounting. These courses help you learn skills that are needed for jobs in finance and business.
No, they are not the same. The NQF (National Qualifications Framework) follows South Africa’s education system. The ICB IQB is recognised internationally and helps if you want to work in other countries. Both are good, but NQF is better for South African jobs, while IQB works well for global careers.
NQF 5 is a level in South Africa’s education system. It means you have completed a post-matric qualification, like a certificate or diploma. This level shows that you have advanced skills and knowledge in a specific subject.
SAQA stands for the South African Qualifications Authority. It checks all qualifications to make sure they meet the right standards. The NQF (National Qualifications Framework) is the system that ranks qualifications from basic to advanced levels. SAQA manages the NQF to keep the education system organised.
ICB offers practical courses in bookkeeping, business management, and financial accounting. It is great if you are just starting a career in finance. CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) is a higher-level course for those who want to focus on management accounting. ICB is better for beginners, while CIMA works for those aiming for leadership roles.
Author: Jodie Jacobs
