The exam consists of four papers, comprehensively covering the four communication skills: reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Each test is based on realistic texts, tasks and topics similar to those finance professionals would expect to encounter in their daily working lives.

			Financial Reporting
			Company Financial Strategy
			Risk Assessment and Analysis
			Banking
			Insurance
			Investment Banking
			Ethics and Professionalism
			Debt-Recovery and Credit Policy
			Accounting Software Packages
			Auditing
			Forensic Accounting
			Assets and Company Valuations
			Budgetary Processes
			Corporate Governance
			Cost and Management Accounting
			Bankruptcy
			Acquisitions and Mergers
			Environmental and Sustainability Issues

To pass Cambridge ICFE, candidates need to achieve a level of English of at least B2 on the Council of Europe’s Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Students electing to take this course are expected to be familiar with some finance and accountancy concepts and terminology.

Overview
Cambridge ICFE is a high-level language qualification for accountants and finance professionals.

The examination is set at levels B2 and C1 of the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR) and assesses language skills in the context of finance and accounting. B2 is equivalent to the Cambridge First Certificate in English (FCE), and C1 is equivalent to the Certificate in Advanced English (CAE). Examinations at the C1 level may be used as proof of language necessary to work in an international context or to follow a course of study related to finance at university level.

Students studying finance and accounting
Cambridge ICFE is an ideal qualification for anyone thinking of, or already pursuing, a career in accountancy or finance. If you are considering a career in finance or are about to embark on studying towards an accounting or finance qualification, the qualification will be a valuable addition to your CV.

Finance and accountancy professionals
If you are finance professional with an already established and successful career, Cambridge ICFE can be used to validate your financial English language skills and provide proof of your linguistic ability and expertise.

Preparing for Cambridge ICFE may also count towards the continuing professional development (CPD) requirements of members of accountancy and finance professional bodies.

Employers
For employers, Cambridge ICFE can be used as a valuable recruitment tool to help with the selection process and training of your employees. This unique exam will help the ambitious to demonstrate their skills and suitability for a successful career in international finance.

If your company works across borders or is multinational, Cambridge ICFE can help your organisation to develop globally consistent levels of English language proficiency with employees throughout the world. The qualification can also be incorporated into your organisation’s in-house learning and development programmes to encourage the development and maintenance of high levels of English language skills for all your employees.

Professional bodies
Cambridge ICFE is also suitable for a broad range of finance-related professions and if you’re a professional body of an accountancy or finance-related discipline and think your members could benefit from a world recognised financial English language qualification.

Please note that these application forms are only valid for the session you are registering for.

	OPTION 1

Step1: Download and complete the application form

Step2: Fax to 0860 10 35 25 or +27 (0)11 718 4401 or e-mail information@britishcouncil.org.za the following documents:

			Proof of payment
			Copy of your identity document or passport with recent photo attached.

	OPTION 2

Step1: Download and complete the application form

Step2: Send the application form(s), copy of your identity document or passport with recent photo attached and proof of payment by mail to:

	OPTION 1

			Step1: Download and complete the application form
			Step2: Fax to 0860 10 35 25 or +27 (0)11 718 4401 or e-mail information@britishcouncil.org.za or post (see above) the following documents:

			Proof of payment
			Completed application form

Due to candidate feedback and requests, we are proud to host ICFE exam workshops to help you achieve the best results.

What is the Common European Framework?
Developed by the Council of Europe, the Common European Framework (CEF) of Reference for Languages provides a basis for the mutual recognition of language qualifications. It facilitates a clear definition of teaching and learning objectives and methods, and provides the necessary tools for the assessment of proficiency. Taking an exam like Cambridge ICFE which is linked to the CEF will give successful candidates a qualification which will be recognised and understood in countries both within and outside Europe.

How can Cambridge ICFE test financial English without testing financial knowledge?
Cambridge ICFE tests English in a financial and accounting context, so, although background knowledge of this area of English language will impact to some degree on test performance, the exam is not a test of finance or accounting. Cambridge ICFE assesses candidates’ ability to understand spoken and written English in realistic, professional contexts that they are likely to encounter in their daily working lives.

			Test of Reading: 1 hour 15 mins
			Test of Writing: 1 hour 15 mins
			Test of Listening: 40 minutes (approximately)
			Test of Speaking: 16 minutes (approximately)

How can I register for Cambridge ICFE?
Candidates who wish to register should contact an authorised centre.

How are the papers scheduled?
The Test of Reading, Test of Writing and Test of Listening papers are likely to be scheduled on the same day. The Test of Speaking will be offered over a longer period with exact dates decided locally by the authorised centre.

How are results reported?
Results are reported as three passing grades: C1 Pass with Merit; C1 Pass and B2 Pass, and two failing grades: Narrow Fail and Fail.

All candidates receive a statement of results indicating an overall estimate of their ability based on their performance on each of the four papers, thus ensuring that the different elements of the skills tested are contributing equally to the candidates’ competence. The statement of results includes a graphical profile indicating areas of comparative strength and/or weakness in the four language skills. Successful candidates also receive a certificate.

Who will recognise the exam?
The certificates awarded to Cambridge ESOL candidates are recognised by thousands of educational organisations and employers throughout the world as reliable evidence of the level of English the learner has achieved. Cambridge ESOL and ACCA are working towards obtaining recognition for ICFE from professional accountancy bodies, educational organisations, private sector employers and governmental institutions.