Deciding to study further can be a big step—especially when you want a qualification that is flexible, recognised, and helps you grow professionally. If you’re exploring your options, it’s worth looking at the reasons to choose ICB. These courses are designed to support your career journey—even if you don’t have Matric—by offering quality training and real-world skills.
Reasons to Choose ICB
You should choose to study an Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) course because of the following reasons:
It Is Registered With The National Qualifications Framework
This makes it easy for you to gain employment because employers can see that your qualification is registered and of quality.
Learn Relevant Information
The ICB offers courses with information that is recent. This means you will gain knowledge that can be used in the modern world.
Quick Completion
You can complete an ICB course quickly. Some courses can be completed in 6 to 12 months.
Available Through Distance Learning
You can study ICB courses through distance learning, where you learn from anywhere you are. You can even do this at Matric College.
Recognition
ICB courses are recognised globally. This means you can choose to find work or continue studying in or outside South Africa.
Quality Training
ICB courses train you to be a professional. This is why there are different assessments to ensure you become the right fit.
Scarce Skills Qualification
ICB courses offer skills that are in demand in South Africa. This increases your opportunities to find employment.
Fair Entry Requirements
You can study an ICB course with a Grade 10 Qualification. This means that you are not limited if you do not have Matric.
With ICB, you don’t just study—you gain a pathway to better job opportunities, scarce skills, and global recognition.
Who Is The ICB?
The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB). They are an external examination body that has been in the academic business for over 90 years. Their focus lies in the following streams:
- Business Management
- Financial Accounting
- Office Administration
The ICB courses are accredited by the ICB and the QCTO. The ICB, however, is not a training provider. They only offer external assessments. They have colleges such as Matric College as training providers to offer their courses.
Is ICB Internationally Recognised?
Yes, the ICB is internationally and nationally recognised. They are recognised in places such as the UK, where you can continue your studies at. There are professional bodies where you can complete your studies. These are:
- IAB (International Association of Bookkeepers, UK)
- IAAP (International Association of Accounting Professionals, UK)
- ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, UK)
- CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, UK)
When you have completed your studies, you can look for employment in the UK or anywhere else in the world.
Is ICB SAQA Accredited?
Yes, ICB courses are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). ICB courses are registered, and this makes them recognised in South Africa. Academic institutions and companies recognise them. This makes it simple for you to gain access to different companies and academic institutions.
What Is The Purpose Of ICB?
The purpose of the ICB is to equip you with the skills and knowledge in the Business Management, Office Administration or Financial Accounting field. This way you gain skills and knowledge that can help you be advanced. You can use these to find employment or start a business. The best part is that ICB courses are scarce skills, this means that you have a higher chance to find employment in South Africa.
Watch our CEO of Matric College, Jan Badenhorst, speak about the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) and scarce skills
What Is An ICB Course?
An ICB course is created by the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB). These courses are skills and knowledge-based. They prepare you for employment and entrepreneurship. Below is a list of the ICB courses we offer:
- ICB Office Administration
- ICB Business Management
- Small Business Financial Management: ICB National Certificate
- Higher Certificate in Office Administration
- National Diploma in Financial Accounting
- ICB Financial Accounting
- National Certificate in Bookkeeping
- FET Certificate in Bookkeeping
- National Diploma: Technical Financial Accounting
- National Diploma in Financial Accounting
Whether you’re starting or aiming to grow your career, there’s an ICB course designed to help you succeed.
What Is An ICB Qualification?
An ICB Qualification is what you are awarded when you complete an ICB course. These qualifications are printed by FASSET. The ICB ask them to print your qualifications after your assessment marks are audited. When the qualifications have been printed, they are sent to the ICB, which sends them to you.
What Can I Do With An ICB Qualification?
You can use an ICB Qualification to do the following:
- Find employment
- Study further
An ICB Qualification gives you the flexibility to start your career or advance your studies, opening doors to future opportunities.
Find Employment
For the three ICB Programmes, you can use the qualification you receive to find employment. You can work as the following:
ICB Financial Accounting Courses
- Financial Manager
- Payroll Clerk
- Bookkeeper
- Assistant Accountant
- Tax Technician
- Financial Services Manager
- Assistant Manager
- Tax Consultant
ICB Business Management Courses
- Business Manager
- Business Analyst
- Business Consultant
- Junior Researcher
- Junior Analyst
- Customer Service Manager
- Financial Accountant
- Sales Manager
ICB Office Administration Courses
- Receptionist
- Office Assistant
- Marketing Administrator
- General Office Manager
- Administrative Manager
- Public Relations Manager
- Senior Office Administrator
- Secretary
With an ICB qualification, you gain the practical skills and recognised credentials to pursue diverse career opportunities across finance, business, and office administration.
Study Further
You can use an ICB Qualification to study further. You can further your studies at Matric College. If you have a Matric Certificate (Amended Senior Certificate or National Senior Certificate), you can study for our NATED courses.
These are courses that are focused on knowledge and work experience. They equip you with the components to increase your chances of gaining employment. Below is a list of the NATED courses we offer:
- Business Management Courses
- Marketing Management Courses
- Management Assistant Courses
- Human Resources Management Courses
- Financial Management Courses
- Legal Secretary Courses
OR
You can use an ICB Qualification to study our Short courses. These are courses you can study without Matric. Short courses are skill-based. They equip you with skills that you can use to find work or start a business. Below is a list of the Short courses we offer:
- Salon Management courses
- Nail Care courses
- Make-up courses
- Facial Skincare courses
- Beauty Therapy courses
- First Aid Courses
- Crèche Management courses
- Child Day Care courses
- Child Psychology courses
- Tourism Management courses
- Guest House Management courses
- Events Management courses
- Wedding Planning courses
An ICB Qualification enables you to advance your studies through specialised courses that strengthen your skills, broaden your expertise, and enhance your career prospects.
ICB Course Fees
ICB courses can help you learn bookkeeping and accounting skills that employers are looking for. When you study, you will need to pay for your registration, subject exams, and other possible fees. Here is a table showing the main 2025 ICB fees:
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual Student Registration Fee | R500 (once a year) |
| Assessment Fee for Digital PoE (paper & online exam) – per subject | R915 |
| Assessment Postponement Fee – per subject | R375 |
| Assessment Late Entry Fee – per subject | R585 |
| Assessment Re-mark & Examiner’s Report – per subject | R1 350 |
| Private Invigilator Admin Fee (by approval) | R2 200 |
| Workplace PoE Assessments (Learnerships) | R1 800 |
| RPL/Exemption Application Fee | R600 |
| RPL/Exemption Fee – per subject (no PoE) | R475 |
| RPL PoE Fee – per subject | R1 050 |
| Certificate Reprint – local postage | R440 |
| Certificate Reprint – international postage | R660 |
| Certificate Resend – domestic | R220 |
| Certificate Resend – international | R580 |
| Results Transcript (print & send) | R180 |
These prices cover ICB’s part of your studies. Your tuition fees, which you pay to your college, are separate. Payment plans are available so you can spread the cost over time.
How Is ICB Funded?
The ICB is not paid for by the government. It earns money from the fees that students pay. This includes your registration fee, exam fees, and membership fees. Your college takes care of your classes and study material.
The ICB focuses on running the exams, giving certificates, and making sure that courses meet the right standards. This means you get both learning support from your college and a respected qualification from the ICB.
Student Testimonials
Real learners have shared how Matric College’s ICB courses helped them study effectively, accelerate their careers, and feel genuinely supported. Here are a few of their stories:
“Matric College is the way to start afresh your life, is the best choice you can do in your life. I have never felt like this before, I’ve gained my Confidence back because of this College…”
-Ntombi M
“I love the online classes it’s really flexible and i can study in my own comfort which is much better. I love the assistants of the tutor and the rest of their team.”
-Vellarino A
How Do I Pass An ICB Course?
You pass an ICB course by completing the assessments assigned for each subject in an ICB course. An ICB course is made up of a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE).
Inside each PoE, there are three (3) assignments and two (2) online tests. You must complete these and earn 50% or higher makes to pass. There is also a final examination set that you must complete. This determines if you pass the course or not.
There are two types of exams in the ICB. These exams are the following:
- Online exams
- Paper-based exams
Distance learning students write their exams in exam centres that are approved by the ICB and online. This information was implemented by the ICB in April 2021.
Online Exams
Online exams are scheduled to be written from 01:00 pm to 04:30 pm on the ICB MACCI Portal.
Paper-Based Exams
The paper-based exams are administered at a physical location booked by the ICB or at a provider college, and they are scheduled from 09:00 am to 12:30 pm.
Below is a list of tips you can also use to pass an ICB course:
- Find a study area that is quiet
- Make sure your study area is always organised
- Keep the things you may need close to you when studying
- Have a study timetable and follow it
- Study daily or at least four times a week
- Ask our tutors for assistance when you feel stuck
- Use the study material that we send to you when studying
- Ask your tutors as many questions as possible
- Prepare for all exams
- Have a study group that you can join and be voiced to study
- Ask our course experts for help when needed
- Do extra research on your assessments on the internet
- Aim for high marks
- Write and submit as assessments
Following these tips consistently will help you stay organised, understand your course material better, and increase your chances of passing your ICB exams with confidence
What Is The ICB Student Portal?
This is known as the first ICB student portal. You can do the following in this portal:
- Register to become an ICB student
- Enter for exams if you are a distance learning student
- Find the results of your exam
- You can edit your personal information
- Send payments
In summary, the ICB student portal is your central hub for managing all aspects of your student journey, from registration and exam entry to viewing results and updating personal information
What Is ICB MACCI?
The ICB MACCI is known as the ICB second student portal. You can do the following in this portal:
- Find your PoE here
- Get updates on your course
- Submit assignments
- Instant feedback from online tests
- Taking exams
In summary, the ICB MACCI portal serves as a central hub for students to manage their learning, stay updated, and access essential resources, making your ICB journey more streamlined and interactive.
Benefits Of Studying An ICB Course At Matric College
Here are the standout benefits you can expect when you choose to study with Matric College:
- Fast Study Material Delivery: Get your textbooks and resources delivered quickly and reliably—thanks to same-day dispatch and verified parcel tracking.
- Accredited and Recognised Qualifications: Earn nationally recognised qualifications that help build your career.
- Proactive Student Support:Our support team checks in with you—before you even have to ask. Monthly service calls and same-day query resolutions ensure you’re never left waiting.
- Study From Anywhere, Anytime: Learn flexibly from any location in South Africa, at your own pace, while balancing work and personal life.
- Transparent Financial Management: We offer clear, no-hidden-fees pricing and tailored payment plans to fit your budget.
- Academic Support That’s Always On: With triple daily academic dashboards and same-day assignment handling, your academic progress is tracked and supported at every step.
- Engaging Study Groups and Tutor Help: Join interactive Telegram support groups and access tutors who respond quickly to your questions.
- Automated Feedback and Certification: Receive timely feedback and certificates, so you always know where you stand in your learning journey.
Choosing Matric College means enjoying a seamless, flexible, and fully supported learning experience—giving you the tools, guidance, and recognition you need to succeed on your educational and career journey.
People Also Ask
The ICB Requirements depend on which National Certificate course you want to start with. All of them are ICB-accredited and open to students without Matric, but each has slightly different starting points:
- Business Management: National Certificate: You need to have at least Grade 11 (or an equivalent NQF Level 2 qualification).
- Office Administration: National Certificate: You must have Matric or an equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification.
- Bookkeeping (Accounting): National Certificate: You only need Grade 10 (or an equivalent NQF Level 2 qualification) to begin.
The full ICB Cirriculum has three levels:
- National Certificate (Entry Level)
- Higher Certificate
- Diploma
Each level takes about 12 months to complete if you study part-time. So, if you study consistently, you could finish the whole programme in around 3 years.
But remember — the ICB lets you study at your own pace. You can take more time if you need it or move faster if you’re up for the challenge.
To pass an ICB subject, you need:
- A minimum of 60% overall.
- Your final mark includes:
- Formative assessments (assignments and tests during the course).
- Summative assessment (the final exam).
You also need at least 50% in the final exam to pass that specific exam.
Tip: You must complete your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) before the exam — this includes all your coursework and assignments.
Yes. ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) is SAQA-accredited, QCTO-recognised, and valued by employers for its practical, job-ready skills in finance, business, and admin. It’s also recognised internationally by bodies like ACCA and CIMA, making it a strong choice for building scarce skills and boosting employability.
You can re-register and rewrite the exam until you pass. Exams are offered regularly, and you only need to redo the failed module. If registered before 30 June 2026 under the current pathway, you have until 30 June 2029 to finish your qualification.
ICB offers NQF Level 3–6 qualifications in bookkeeping, accounting, and admin through accredited colleges. CIMA is a global professional body for management accountants, offering higher-level qualifications. ICB graduates can get exemptions toward CIMA, making it a natural next step for career progression.
Yes. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) is fully accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). This means the courses meet national education rules and are trusted by employers.
All ICB qualifications are also registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). When you finish an ICB course, your qualification is listed on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). This makes your qualification official and recognised in South Africa.
Yes. ICB courses are a good choice if you want to start or grow a career in finance, bookkeeping, or office administration. They are flexible, affordable, and offer qualifications that employers value.
With an ICB qualification, you can apply for better jobs, start your own business, or continue with more advanced studies. It’s a smart way to build skills that can open many doors for your future.
Your ICB exam mark is made up of two parts. The first part is your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE), which counts for 30% of your final mark. The second part is your final exam, which counts for 70%.
To complete your PoE, you need to do three assignments and two tests. You hand this in together with your exam. The pass mark for the ICB exam is 50%. This means you need to get at least half of the total marks to pass and move forward in your studies.
Author: Mulisa Nethononda
Editor: Amy Venter
Date Published: May 25, 2022