RPL
How long does the RPL process take?
Initial review: up to 6 weeks. If a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) is required, allow 7–8 weeks for results after PoE submission.
Is RPL available for NQF and IQB pathways?
Yes — but note: NQF credits only apply if you enrolled as an ICB student before 30 June 2026. After that, exemptions apply to IQB Professional Certification (non-credit bearing).
RPL Process
- Step 1: Read the Guidelines for Recognition of Prior Learning
Download and read the official ICB Examination Policy. - Step 2: Create a student profile on the ICB Student Portal
Go to the ICB website, click Student Portal, and register to create your student profile and get your ICB number (no payment needed yet). - Step 3: Pay the application fee
Pay the RPL application fee (see Fees list for correct fee). - Step 4: Submit all required documentation
Submit your full RPL application online and upload the supporting documents;
-Detailed CV
-Transcripts of formal, NQF-registered qualifications
-Proof of accreditation for your previous provider
-NQF level and SAQA qualification registration number for previous courses
-Proof of payment
-Official copies of previous course results
-Copy of ID book / passport (if non-RSA resident)
-Letter from your manager confirming work experience (if applicable) - Step 5: Receive the outcome
Your application will be reviewed by the ICB Exemptions Review Board.
You’ll receive a written decision (allow up to 6 weeks). - Step 6: Accept the outcome & make payment
If credit is granted:-Pay the exemption fee per subject (for full exemption), or
-Pay the RPL fee per subject (for conditional exemption / PoE required) - Step 7: Get access to the RPL PoE (if applicable)
For conditional exemption, you’ll complete a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) for each subject (via the MACCI portal).
For full exemptions, no PoE is required.
Subject certificates are issued for successfully completed conditional exemptions only, not for full exemptions. Qualification certificates are issued once all requirements for a completed qualification are met.
Summary of RPL Outcomes
- Full exemption granted — exemption fee applies
- Conditional exemption granted — PoE must be completed, exemption fee applies
- Exemption not granted — you will need to complete the subject via normal ICB assessment
What happens if I don’t submit everything up front?
Incomplete applications will not be processed. If you submit late documents, a new application fee will apply and the process restarts.
Where can I get full details?
Download the ICB Examination Policy — or contact support@icb.org.za (Subject: Exemptions).
Who can apply for RPL?
Anyone with NQF-registered qualifications (last 5 years), or relevant work experience aligned to ICB qualification outcomes.
Will I get a subject certificate for exempted subjects?
Subject certificates are issued for successfully completed conditional exemptions only, not for full exemptions.
Qualification certificates are issued once all requirements for a completed qualification are met.
