Guideline for Application for Recognition of Prior Learning (Exemptions)

If you have studied similar courses previously, or have relevant work experience, you can apply for exemptions (recognition of prior learning.) Applications must be based on NQF registered qualifications/part qualifications and need to be submitted with the following documentation:

• Proof of provider accreditation (some examples are: DHET, Seta's QAP, Umalusi, CHE)
• NQF level
• SAQA qualification registration number.

For all exemptions applied for, qualifications must have been obtained within the last 5 years i.e. “current” per SAQA requirements or if qualifications are older than 5 years, they must still be NQF registered together with current relevant work experience.

How to apply

• Register and update your contact details on the ICB student portal (www.icb.org.za) and quote the ICB number on the RPL guideline.
• Pay the RPL application fee to the ICB (please refer to the current fees list on the ICB website).
• Email the following documents (in PDF format) to the ICB and tick below to show that all documents are attached.

Review Process

Once the ICB’s Exemptions Review Board has reviewed your application, which can take up to 6 weeks, they will write to you with their decision. You could receive specific subject exemptions or even a full qualification exemption. Feedback will be given by learning area (subject) and could be:

• Full Exemption granted
  If the ICB recognises your previous studies and grants you credit for equivalent subjects, you will need to pay an exemption fee per subject granted.
• Exemption not granted
  If the ICB does not feel that your previous qualification(s) or work experience match part or all of the learning outcomes of the subjects you are applying for.
• Conditional exemption granted
  This means you don’t qualify for the full exemption but can submit more evidence without having to write an exam. You will however, be required to complete a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) assessment provided by the ICB to prove your competency in a particular subject. You will need to pay an RPL fee for each subject.

Once we have received your proof of payment, we will send you an email to access the RPL PoE . The PoE is be available for you to complete via the MACCI digital portal for each subject granted and submit it by the “Due Date.” You must do all the assessments in the Portfolios and then upload them back to the ICB via the MACCI portal for final assessment. We will review them and let you know the outcome 7-8 weeks after the due date stated on the PoE label. The completion of an RPL PoE is regarded as an assessment entry and all the policies and procedures with regards to ICB assessments apply.

If you are assessed as ‘exempt’, you will get full exemption for that particular learning area. If you are ‘unsuccessful’, you’ll need to register in order to study the learning areas and enter for the assessments/exams.

Compulsory Student Registration

In order to accept any exemptions granted, you will need to be a registered student of the ICB. If you are not yet an ICB student, you will need to pay the annual student registration fee. Thereafter, if you continue as a student, the registration fee will be payable each calendar year.

Declaration and Submission

1. The quoted fees and exemption opportunities are valid for six (6) months from date of this letter. If you have not accepted and paid for these exemptions within six (6) months, you will need to contact us. Please note: if the fees change within the six (6) month period, students will be liable to pay the balance of the new fees.
2. Qualification Certificates are only issued once a full qualification is obtained.
3. No certificates are issued for exempted learning areas/subjects.
4. No refunds for Exemption Fees will be given under any circumstances. It is the student’s responsibility to fully understand the process and implications before accepting these exemptions.
5. I have submitted all the documentation upfront because the ICB Board will base their decision on this alone. Any additional documentation submitted after the initial application, will require the process to start from the beginning and another application fee will be due.
6. Payment of annual student registration fee is for STUDENT REGISTRATION (no certificate issued.)