Our ICB Bridging Course
Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate
What Are Online ICB Bridging Courses?
The ICB Bridging courses online are courses that assists students who do not meet the requirements to study ICB courses to bridge that gap so that they become eligible to study for ICB courses. The ICB bridging course prepares non-qualifying students for ICB courses.
Upon completion of the bridging course, students can study any one of the following ICB courses:
The requirements for this course is Matric or a Matric Equivalent qualification If you want to pursue this course, you will first have to complete either the Bookkeeping: ICB FET Certificate or the Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate. These two courses are equivalent to a Matric.
- Office Administration: ICB National Certificate
- Office Administration: ICB Higher Certificate
- Office Administration: ICB National Diploma
Start your journey toward a rewarding career in accounting, business, or office administration. See how the ICB Bridging Course can prepare you for ICB-accredited program
What Are The Requirements OF The ICB Bridging Course?
The ICB Bridging Course helps students without Matric gain essential skills in bookkeeping and business studies, preparing them for accredited ICB programs.
Here are the requirements for studying for the ICB Bridging courses for matric:
- Grade 10 or Grade 10 Equivalent Certificate
- Be able to read, write and understand English
- Be able to study through distance learning
Complete the ICB Bridging Course to access further ICB qualifications and career opportunities in bookkeeping, accounting, and business management.
What Are The Benefits Of A Bridging Course?
Here are the benefits of studying the ICB Bridging courses in South Africa:
- Get a well-defined career path – When you study the ICB bridging course, you will get to choose for yourself a well-defined career path through the programmes that the ICB offers. You can have a defined career path in the following:
- ICB Business Management Courses
- ICB Office Administration Courses
- ICB Financial Accounting Courses
- You study a scarce skills course – All ICB courses are scarce skills courses. This means that these courses are in demand by employers. By studying ICB courses, you can be assured of a bright and successful career.
- ICB courses are accredited – All ICB courses are accredited. Here are the bodies that the ICB courses are accredited by:
- ICB courses are recognised – ICB qualifications are recognised by both employers and other professional local and international accounting bodies. Here are the professional bodies that recognise ICB:
- South African Institute of Tax Professionals (SAIT)
- South African Institute of Business Accountants (SAIBA)
- International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB)
- International Association of accounting professionals (IAAP)
- The entry requirements are flexible – you do not need to have Matric or Matric Equivalent qualification to study the ICB bridging course
The ICB Bridging Course gives you a clear career path, in-demand skills, and accredited, widely recognised qualifications—without needing Matric.
Can I Study A Bridging Course Without Matric?
Yes, you can study the ICB bridging course without Matric. Matric or a Matric Equivalent qualification are not a requirement.
The ICB Bridging Course is made for students who want to study further but don’t meet the usual entry rules. It helps you learn the skills you need so you can move on to bigger courses and better job chances.
How Long Does It Take To Do A Bridging Course?
The recommended duration of the ICB Bridging course is 12 -16 months.
What Subjects Will I Study?
The ICB Bridging Course covers key subjects that provide a solid foundation in bookkeeping and business skills, preparing students for further ICB qualifications.
These are the subjects that you will study for the ICB Bridging course:
- Bookkeeping to Trial Balance (BKTB)
- Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns (PMSR)
- Computerised Bookkeeping (CPBK)
- Business Literacy (BUSL)
By studying these subjects, you will gain practical knowledge and essential skills in financial record-keeping, payroll, computerised bookkeeping, and business literacy, readying you for career and academic progression.
What Will I Learn?
Here is what you will learn in the ICB Bridging Course:
Bookkeeping to Trial Balance (BKTB)
In Bookkeeping to Trial Balance, you will gain the foundational skills needed to manage business finances accurately, from recording transactions to balancing accounts.
In this subject, you will learn the following:
- Introduction to Bookkeeping
- Recording income, receipts, and payments
- Balancing books
- Balancing financial business transactions
By completing this subject, you will be able to confidently record income and payments, balance books, and ensure accurate financial transactions for a business.
Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns (PMSR)
In this subject, you will gain essential knowledge of business finances, including profit and loss reporting, financial positions, and tax obligations.
In this subject, you will learn the following:
- Disclosing profits and losses
- Business financial position
- Business tax
- Payroll tax
By completing this subject, you will understand how to manage business finances and payroll taxes, preparing you for practical accounting and bookkeeping tasks.
Computerised Bookkeeping (CPBK)
This subject introduces students to essential computerised bookkeeping tools and software, helping them gain practical skills for modern accounting and office environments.
In this subject, you will learn the following:
- Bookkeeping computer programmes
- PC concepts
- Pastel accounting
- Microsoft Word
By completing this subject, students will be proficient in bookkeeping software, PC fundamentals, Pastel accounting, and Microsoft Word, preparing them for real-world accounting tasks.
Business Literacy (BUSL)
Business Literacy (BUSL) equips students with essential numeracy skills for everyday business and financial tasks, including calculations, interest, and working with fractions and percentages.
In this subject, you will learn the following:
- Concepts of numeracy
- Interest calculations
- Calculating using fractions and percentages
By mastering Business Literacy, students gain the practical math skills needed to handle financial transactions and support decision-making in business and bookkeeping roles.
What Are My Career Opportunities?
Upon completion of your ICB Bridging course you can look for employment opportunities. Here are some of the career options that you can consider:
- Junior Bookkeeper
- Accounts Clerk
- Reconciliation Clerk
- Payroll Clerk
- Accounts Assistant
Completing the ICB Bridging Course opens the door to practical career opportunities in bookkeeping and finance, including roles such as Junior Bookkeeper, Accounts Clerk, Payroll Clerk, and Accounts Assistant.
What Can I Study After The Bridging Course?
Though you can study any of the ICB courses upon completion of the ICB Bridging course, it is, however, associated more with the ICB Financial Accounting programme. Here are the ICB bookkeeping courses you can study:
- Bookkeeping: ICB FET Certificate
- Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
- Certified Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma
Upon completing the ICB Bridging Course, students are well-prepared to advance in ICB Financial Accounting, including the Bookkeeping FET Certificate and National Diplomas in Technical and Certified Financial Accounting.
Is A Bridging Course A Qualification?
Yes, the ICB Bridging course is a qualification. It is known as the Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate. Here is additional information about this qualification:
| Certificate Type | National Certificate |
| Accredited By | The Quality Council of Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) |
| Awarded By | FASSET |
| NQF Level | Level 3 |
| SAQA ID | 58375 |
| Credits | 120 |
Is A Bridging Course Equivalent To Matric?
No, the ICB Bridging course is not equivalent to Matric. Matric is at National Qualification Framework level 4 while the ICB Bridging course is at NQF level 4. Here are the NQF levels of the ICB Financial Accounting programme:
| ICB ACCOUNTING COURSE | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS |
| Bookkeeping: ICB National Certificate | 3 | 120 |
| Bookkeeping: ICB FET Certificate | 4 | 130 |
| Technical Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma | 5 | 251 |
| Certified Financial Accounting: ICB National Diploma | 6 | 280 |
Can I Study The Bridging Course Online?
Yes, you can study the ICB Bridging course online. Online learning is a form of distance learning. This is because when you study by distance learning, you use online tools. Here are the online tools that you use when you study through distance learning:
- Telephone
- Website
Online study for the ICB Bridging Course lets you balance learning with work or personal commitments, offering flexibility and convenience for every student.
What Are The Benefits Of Studying Through Distance Learning?
Here are the benefits of studying through distance learning:
- You can work while you study
- You create your own timetable
- Save money
- Avoid the risk of COVID-19
Studying through distance learning allows you to work while you study, set your own schedule, save costs, and stay safe, offering flexible and convenient learning.
You Can Work While You Study
When you study through distance learning, you do not have to quit your job if you are working. You can continue with your work as there are no classes to attend. What is more, is that you can use part of your income to pay for your tuition. You can finance your own studies.
You Create Your Own Timetable
There is flexibility when you study through distance learning. This is because since you do not have to attend any classes, you set your own timetable. To can study at times that are convenient to you. You can also study wherever you want. Just make sure that there are no distractions.
Save Money
You can save money when you study through distance learning. Here is how you can save:
- No transport costs
- Since you are not attending any classes, you save on transport costs
2. No food costs
- Since you are not attending any classes, you also save on the cost of teas and lunches
3. Tuition fees are affordable
- Distance learning fees are more affordable than those of contact learning
- You also do not have to buy textbooks
I am happy with the service and support I receive from the staff. My study material arrived on time and will recommend Matric College to anyone .keep it up guys👌- Dineo M
Bookkeeping Courses Prices
Studying bookkeeping is a smart choice, but it is also important to know what it will cost. The ICB Bookkeeping Course Fees cover your registration, exams, and other services you may need. This makes it easy to plan your budget before you start your course.
Below, you can see a table that shows all the costs for 2025. This will help you understand exactly what you will pay for each part of your studies:
| ICB Bookkeeping Course Fees | Prices |
|---|---|
| Annual Student Registration Fee (No member benefits) | R 500 |
| Assessment Fee – Digital PoE (per subject) | R 1 830 |
| Assessment Postponement Fee (per subject) | R 915 |
| Assessment Late Entry Fee (per subject) | R 1 350 |
| Assessment Re-mark & Examiner’s Report (per subject) | R 2 200 |
| RPL/Exemption Application Fee | R 600 |
| RPL/Exemption Fee (per subject – no PoE required) | R 475 |
| RPL PoE Fee (per subject – PoE to be completed) | R 1 050 |
| ICB Programme Certificate Reprint (domestic) | R 440 |
| FASSET Certificate Reprint (domestic) | R 440 |
| ICB Programme Certificate Reprint (international) | R 660 |
| FASSET Certificate Reprint (international) | R 660 |
| Certificate Resend Fee – Domestic | R 220 |
| Certificate Resend Fee – International | R 580 |
These fees show you what to expect when you register, write exams, or request a service such as a certificate reprint. Knowing these costs now will help you plan better. Once your fees are sorted, you can focus on passing your subjects and moving forward in your career.
ICB Course Fees
ICB Course Fees are simple and clear. They are split into three main parts: registration, exam (assessment), and admin fees. If you are not sure about a cost or how to pay, you can speak to our course experts. They can explain the fees and help you choose a payment plan that works for you. Our courses are affordable, and you can pay in smaller amounts to make it easier.
People Also Ask
Yes, the ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) is accredited by SAQA. This means the courses meet South Africa’s national standards and are officially recognised. If you’re not sure if your ICB course is accredited, you can check it easily by doing the steps below:
- Go to the SAQA website.
- Type in the name of your course or the SAQA ID (like 58375).
- Look to see if the course is listed and check the NQF level.
- Make sure your college (like Matric College) is on the list of approved schools.
The ICB creates courses that teach you important work skills in bookkeeping, business, and office work. These courses help you find good jobs and start your career. ICB also works with other big groups to make sure their courses stay useful and trusted.
There is only one ICB in South Africa. But it offers three different study options: Accounting, Office Work, and Business Management. Each option has a few different courses, starting from beginner level and going up.
If you don’t pass your ICB exam, you can write it again. You’ll need to register for a rewrite and pay a small fee. Don’t stress—your college can help you prepare better next time.
ICB and CIMA are both about accounting, but they are for different levels. ICB is great for people who are starting out and want to learn the basics. CIMA is for people who already have some experience and want to learn high-level skills in managing money.
ICB qualifications range from NQF Level 3 to NQF Level 6, depending on the course level you choose:
NQF Level 3 – National Certificate in Bookkeeping (entry-level)
NQF Level 4 – Further Education and Training Certificate in Bookkeeping or Small Business Financial Management
NQF Level 5 – Higher Certificates or Diplomas in Technical Financial Accounting, Business Management, or Office Administration
NQF Level 6 – National Diplomas in Financial Accounting, Business Management, or Office Administration
This structure allows you to start at an entry level (even without Matric) and gradually progress to a full National Diploma.
ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers)
Focus: Practical skills in bookkeeping, financial accounting, business management, and office administration.
Recognition: SAQA-registered, QCTO-accredited, recognised in South Africa and some other countries.
Levels: NQF Level 3 to NQF Level 6 (from entry-level certificates to National Diplomas).
Entry Requirements: You can start with as little as Grade 10 and progress upwards.
Purpose: Prepares students for entry to mid-level finance, business, and administration roles. Ideal for those without Matric who want to work and study toward a diploma.
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
Focus: Advanced accounting, auditing, tax, business law, and strategic finance, preparing you for professional chartered accountant status.
Recognition: Internationally recognised in over 180 countries.
Levels: Professional qualification comparable to a master’s degree in some countries.
Entry Requirements: Usually requires Matric with maths and accounting, or equivalent qualifications; some exemptions are possible for diploma or degree holders.
Purpose: Opens doors to senior accounting, auditing, and finance management roles globally.
In short: ICB is more accessible and skills-focused, making it great for building a career foundation, while ACCA is globally recognised and advanced, ideal for reaching high-level accounting positions.
Not all ICB qualifications are diplomas. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers offers a range of qualifications from entry-level certificates to advanced national diplomas, depending on the NQF level:
Certificates (NQF 3 & 4): Introductory and intermediate qualifications, such as the National Certificate in Bookkeeping or Small Business Financial Management.
Higher Certificates (NQF 5): Mid-level qualifications in fields like Office Administration or Technical Financial Accounting.
National Diplomas (NQF 6): The highest ICB qualification in Financial Accounting, Office Administration, or Business Management.
So, an ICB qualification can be a diploma, but only if you complete the full advanced-level programme at NQF Level 6.
Yes, you can study the ICB Bridging Course online. All your lessons, tests, and assignments can be done from home on your computer. This makes it easier to fit your studies into your daily life without having to travel.
The ICB Student Portal is an online space for all your study information. Here you can see your results, exam dates, and download study material. You just log in with your student number and password, then click on what you need.
An ICB Bridging Course is for students who do not meet the normal entry requirements for an ICB course. It gives you the basic skills you need before starting the main course. This means you can still move forward with your studies and work towards your career goals.
Author: Collin Wilbesi
Editor: Amy Venter
Date Published: May 27, 2022