Our qualifications are open to students from diverse backgrounds. You can start learning skills and put them into practice quickly — with career-ready professional certificates to get you working and growing.
Independent External
Examination Body
since 1931
- National Accreditation
- Global Recognition
- Career Aligned
Who we are
The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) is an independent external examination body.
We’ve been setting professional standards since 1931 — that’s over 90 years of trusted expertise in the fields of Bookkeeping, Financial Accounting, Business Management, Office Administration.
We are NOT a training provider — we do not run classes or sell training materials. Instead, we partner with a large numberAccredited Training Centres who deliver tuition across South Africa and beyond.
What We Do
We assess competency through formal examinations, offering:
- South African NQF Qualifications
in partnership with QCTO (Quality Council for Trades & Occupations) and FASSET
(Last enrolment for new NQF students: 30 June 2026. Completion deadline: 30 June 2029) - Professional International Certifications
endorsed by IQB (International Qualifications for Business UK) for global recognition
(from 1 July 2024 onwards for new students)
Our modular qualifications allow students to start now and finish later — supporting flexible learning paths such as:
- Classroom-based learning
- Online / distance learning
- Full-time or part-time
- Learn-while-you-earn
No Matric?
No Problem!
Our mission is simple – provide students with practical, work-ready business and financial skills to build careers and improve earning potential — quickly.
Accreditation
& Certificates
When you study an ICB Qualification or Professional Certificate — whether through one of our Accredited Training Centres or Self Study—you can earn a range of recognised certifications.
These include a Professional Certificate for each completed module, an ICB or IQB Certificate (internationally and locally recognised), and, for eligible students, a FASSET NQF Qualification Certificate. ICB qualifications are modular and stackable, allowing you to build your skills step by step—many students earn their first certificate in just four months.
ICB’s 3 Study Streams include qualifications and professional certifications in Financial Accounting, Business Management and Office Administration.
Many core modules appear across streams, giving you versatile skills no matter which path you choose.
Professional Certificate
Awarded for each module completed
ICB / IQB
Certificate
Recognised both locally and internationally
FASSET NQF Qualification
Certificate
For students on the NQF pathway
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION & IQB
The International Qualifications for Business (IQB UK) is a leading organisation that provides internationally recognised certifications across various industries. Their professional certifications and qualifications ensure that students meet global standards and remain competitive worldwide.
Since July 2024, all new ICB qualifications are endorsed and self-regulated by IQB, giving graduates access to Professional International Certifications that enhance their career mobility and global employability.
Key Benefits of IQB Endorsement
- Global Recognition
Certification recognised by employers worldwide
- Career Advancement
Demonstrates commitment to professional development
- Increased Employability
Makes your CV stand out in the global job market
- Professional Credibility
Validates skills and adherence to international standards
- Skill Enhancement
Stay current with the latest industry trends
- Job Security
Certification helps ensure long-term professional value
By choosing an ICB qualification endorsed by IQB, you are investing in a globally respected credential that opens doors locally and internationally.
Why Choose
ICB?
Trusted Since 1931
Independent, respected assessments that set the standard
National Accreditation
Registered with Fasset, QCTO and SAQA
Global Recognition
IQB-endorsed external exams
Employer Valued Programmes
Skills employers want
Flexible Study Options
Classroom or Online. Study in 12 weeks or 12 months
No Matric Required
Open access to skills based qualifications
TRUSTED BY OUR STUDENTS: OUR GOOGLE REVIEWS
Real people, real professionals
Let us guide you!
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upskill, we’re here to help you boost your career with confidence.
