National Diploma: Financial Accounting (NQF Level 6) Full Program 2025


Application Closing Date: 4 July 2025

Course Start Date: 31 July 2025

Lecturer: Innocent Shongedza

Get into the world of accounting with our NQF Level 6 Diploma. Perfect for those looking to become an accountant or bookkeeper. Enroll today with SA Accounting Academy!

ICB Financial Accounting | National Diploma in Financial Accounting (NQF Level 6) | Become an Accountant | SA Accounting Academy

Are you looking to become an accountant or bookkeeper? Our National Diploma in Financial Accounting, accredited by the ICB, is tailored for those who aspire to be recognized as an Accountant, Bookkeeper or Tax Practitioner in South Africa. This comprehensive qualification covers everything from financial management, corporate strategy, to international financial reporting standards.


About this Course

The ICB Financial Accounting Programme culminates at NQF Level 6, offering a comprehensive pathway through financial accounting education. This programme is structured to provide learners with a deep understanding and practical skills in key areas of financial accounting. The journey begins with fundamental subjects like Bookkeeping to Trial Balance, Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns, and progresses through more advanced topics including Financial Statements, Cost and Management Accounting, and Income Tax Returns.

At NQF Level 6, the National Diploma in Financial Accounting, students are expected to have accumulated 280 credits, having mastered subjects that not only cover the essentials of financial accounting but also incorporate knowledge in financial management, corporate strategy, and research practices. This level prepares learners to effectively navigate and contribute to the financial accounting profession with a strong emphasis on ethical standards, reporting, and regulatory frameworks.

This program is designed to build upon the learners' knowledge progressively, with each level setting the foundation for the next, ensuring a thorough understanding of financial accounting. The course duration is structured as follows: 12 months for the initial stage, followed by 6 months each for the subsequent middle levels, and 12 months for the final stage, culminating in a well-rounded education in financial accounting by the end of the NQF Level 6 diploma.

Entry requirements are tailored to ensure learners are adequately prepared for the level of study they are entering. Starting from a minimum of Grade 10 (Std 8) or equivalent for the initial courses, with progression contingent upon the successful completion of preceding subjects, ensuring a structured and comprehensive educational journey through the field of financial accounting.

This programme not only equips students with the necessary theoretical knowledge but also emphasizes practical skills and research, preparing them for a successful career in financial accounting and management.


Job Opportunities

By studying this qualification, you'll be equipped with skills that open doors to various roles, including:

  • SARS Registered Tax Practitioner
  • Senior Bookkeeper
  • Financial Assistant
  • Accounts Manager
  • Financial Controller
  • Junior Accountant
  • Assistant Finance Manager
  • Payroll Manager

Learning Objectives

By successfully completing this qualification you will develop the following competencies:

  • Have thorough knowledge of accounting theory and practice.
  • Have full understanding of corporate strategy and International Financial Reporting Standards.
  • Know tax theory for individuals and companies and be able to complete and submit SARS returns.
  • Compilation of annual financial statements for registered companies.

Delivery

The course is delivered through the SA Accounting Academy online learning platform. Each module contains, quizzes, practical activities, formative assessments and a final summative assessment that must be completed in order for candidates to be deemed competent. It is divided into modules that are easily digestible. In this way you can maintain a work-life balance whilst studying and improving your professional skills.


Is this for you?

This qualification aims to equip you with knowledge and practical skills in bookkeeping, financial accounting, income tax, financial management, reporting standards, corporate strategy, management accounting and research.

Students who successfully complete this qualification will be able to:

  • Register as a Tax Practitioner with SARS.
  • Start a small practice and confidently draft financial statements for small enterprises, manage budgets, and evaluate financial performance for clients.
  • Work in a company as a Accountant, Senior Bookkeeper, Financial Assistant, Accounts Manager, Financial Controller, Junior Accountant, Assistant Finance Manager, or Payroll Manager

Lecturer

Innocent Shongedza

Innocent has more than 12 years industry experience in various finance and accounting roles. During the past 10 years Innocent has moved into the training space where he facilitated on work-readiness programs for thousands of accounting and finance graduates. He is an assessor and moderator registered with various SETAs where he assesses and moderates accounting and finance qualifications. Innocent also trains QuickBooks Online as well as Sage Pastel.


Prerequisites / Admission Requirements

This qualification is set at Level 6 on the National Qualifications Framework. Entrance requirements include a Senior Certificate or higher, or any combination of competencies obtained equivalent to an NQF Level 5 qualification. Individuals who have a degree in business or commerce or another related field may apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to be granted credits for the modules.


Accreditation

This qualification is accredited by the ICB.


Assessments

All formative and summative assessments are conducted online. Candidates must achieve all mandatory competencies of the qualification. To achieve the qualification, learners must be declared competent in all summative assessments conducted by ICB.


Assessment and Certification

Successful completion (i.e. competence in all modules) of this qualification will lead learners to be awarded the National Diploma: Financial Accounting (NQF Level 6) by the ICB.


Curriculum

To earn the qualification, the candidate must pass all examinations administered by the ICB. SAAA will prepare students to succeed in these examinations. A certificate is awarded for successful completion of each level:

  • Bookkeeper Level: National Certificate Bookkeeping, NQFL3, SAQA ID 58375
  • Senior Bookkeeper Level: FET Certificate Bookkeeping, NQFL4, SAQA ID 58376
  • Accounting Technician Level: National Diploma: Technical Financial Accounting, NQFL5, SAQA ID 36213
  • Financial Accountant Level: National Diploma: Financial Accounting, NQFL6, SAQA ID 20366

The Full ICB NQF Level 3 to 6 program (12 Subjects)

Bookkeeper Senior Bookkeeper Accounting Technician Financial Accountant
12 Months + 6 Months + 6 Months + 12 Months
Entry requirements: Entry requirements: Entry requirements: Entry requirements:
Grade 10 (Std 8) or equivalent. You must be at least 16 years old Successful completion of the previous subjects (1-4) Successful completion of the previous subjects (1-6). Successful completion of the previous subjects (1-8).
Subjects: Subjects: Subjects: Subjects:
1. Bookkeeping to Trial Balance (BKTB) 5. Financial Statements (FNST) 7. Income
Tax Returns (ITRT)
9. Corporate Strategy (CRPS)
2. Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns (PMSR) 6. Cost and Management Accounting (CMGT) 8. Business Law and Accounting Control (BLAC) 10. Management Accounting Control Systems (MACS)
3. Computerised
Bookkeeping (CPBK)
    11. Financial Reporting and Regulatory Frameworks (FRRF)
4. Business Literacy (BUSL)     12. Research Theory and Practice (RTAP)
National Certificate: Bookkeeping Further Education and Training Certificate: Bookkeeping National Diploma: Technical Financial Accounting National Diploma: Financial Accounting

NQF L3 (SAQA ID: 58375)

Total credits: 120

NQF L4 (SAQA ID: 58376)

Total cumulative credits: 130

NQF L5 (SAQA ID: 36213)

Total cumulative credits: 251

NQF L6 (SAQA ID: 20366)

Total cumulative credits: 280

Bookkeeper Level:

  • Module 1: Bookkeeping to Trial Balance
  • Module 2: Payroll and Monthly SARS Returns
  • Module 3: Computerised Bookkeeping
  • Module 4: Business Literacy

Senior Bookkeeper Level:

  • Module 5: Financial Statements
  • Module 6: Cost and Management Accounting

Accounting Technician Level:

  • Module 7: Income Tax Returns
  • Module 8: Business Law and Accounting Control

Financial Accountant Level:

  • Module 9: Corporate Strategy
  • Module 10: Management Accounting Control Systems
  • Module 11: Financial Reporting and Regulatory Frameworks
  • Module 12: Research Theory and Practice

For more information on what will be covered in the curriculum please download the prospectus.


About SA Accounting Academy

The SA Accounting Academy is an accredited private QCTO, SAICA - AT(SA) and ICB qualifications provider. We are committed to providing our students with the highest quality training and support, to ensure that your skills and knowledge are up to date and ready to face the challenges of the modern workplace. Qualifications and courses delivered are designed to ensure that you reach your professional goals and advance your career. With our experienced faculty, staff, and resources, you can be confident that you will receive the highest quality of training.

SAAA is a Level 2 B-BBEE contributor, with 125% procurement recognition. Training spend on certain solutions can be allocated against the Skills Development element of the B-BBEE Scorecard through accredited and nonaccredited training or claimed through SETA grants. In addition, 25% of your Skills Expenditure can be claimed on non-accredited training or courses.


Course Fees

Invest in your future with our comprehensive qualification. Our fee is an all-inclusive investment in your future.

The course fee is R 45 400.00 and includes the following for you:

Educational Resources

  • Textbooks: Receive top-tier, up-to-date textbooks to support your learning.
  • Online Materials: Access a wealth of online resources, from e-books to webinars, enhancing your learning experience.
  • Live Sessions: Interact in real-time with experts, gaining insights and clarifications on complex topics. Missed a live session? No worries. Access recorded webinars anytime, anywhere.

Learning Support

  • Facilitation: Benefit from expert-led facilitation sessions that offer personalized guidance, addressing individual queries and ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
  • Formative Assessments: Reinforce your understanding with assessments on different topics.
  • Learner Forum: Engage in meaningful peer-to-peer interactions through our dedicated learner forum. Share insights, ask questions, and collaborate on projects to enhance your learning experience.
  • Continuous Support: Our dedicated team is always on standby to assist with any academic or administrative queries, ensuring a smooth learning process.

Exam Preparation and Scheduling

  • Exam Preparation: Gain a competitive edge with exam walkthroughs, offering strategies and tips for success.
  • Exam Information and Timetable: Stay organized and plan ahead with clear exam and study schedules.
  • Flexible Exam Dates: Schedule your exams around your personal and professional commitments, thanks to our flexible exam dates.
  • Examinations: The fee includes all examination costs with the ICB.

Onboarding and Enrollment

  • Onboarding Video: Kickstart your learning journey with an informative video that outlines the qualification structure, the ICB process, and what to expect.
  • ICB Admission Fees: The course fee also covers the ICB admission charges, offering a seamless enrollment process.

Flexibility and Convenience

  • Study Online: Complete your course and take your exams online, giving you the freedom to learn from anywhere.

Investing in this qualification means you receive a holistic educational package, eliminating any hidden costs or additional expenses. Secure your future in financial accounting with a one-time investment that caters to every aspect of your learning journey.

Important:
For supplementary assessments, an additional charge will apply for each module rewrite, and a maximum of 3 (three) supplementary assessments will be allowed.


Payment Methods

Debit / Credit Card or Instant EFT

You can pay directly on our website for an easy, secure, and instant transaction. During promotional periods, customers can take advantage of additional savings. This is the fastest and most efficient option, saving both time and money.

Debit Order

You can choose to pay a deposit and the rest off over a certain number of months via debit order. Your study materials are included within the deposit.

EFT / Bank Deposit

You can make a payment directly into our bank account using your Online Banking App, Online Banking services, or by visiting your local bank branch.

Your Company / Employer

It may be beneficial for your company to invest in training for its staff members. As there are financial and tax advantages for doing so, please speak with your employer or Training / HR manager about the possibility of paying for this training.

Third Party

If you have someone who is willing to pay for your studies, such as a parent or relative, they can either log in and pay on our website or they can pay via any of the payment options above on your behalf.


Payment Options

Option 1: Once off payment (Application fee is included in this price*)

  • R 45 400.00

Option 2: Pay per subject

  • R 3 950.00 (Application fee is included in this price**) 

Option 3: Monthly Debit Order

  • R 3 950.00 (First payment on approval)
  • R 3 950.00 (Monthly debit order for 11 months (***)

* The application fee includes an annual ICB student fee of three years. If a learner does not complete all the subjects within 3 years (36 months) they will need to pay the annual ICB student fee again.

** The total cost for all the subjects in Option 2: Pay per subject will be R 45 400.00 including the application fee.

*** The total cost for Option 3: Monthly Debit Order including the first payment on approval will be R 47 400.00.


Payment Terms

Payments

  • Minimum payments must be made via direct EFT or credit card before a qualification starts.
  • Full payment is required before the start date.
  • For debit order plans, the first payment is due on the start date.
  • Access to content will be denied if payment terms are not followed.

Cancellations

  • Written notice is required for cancellations.
  • Cancellation fees vary based on the timing of the cancellation relative to the start date:
    • No fee if cancelled more than two weeks prior.
    • 25% fee if cancelled less than two weeks prior.
    • 50% fee if cancelled within six weeks after the start.
    • Full fee if cancelled after six weeks of the start.
  • Non-refundable items include course application fees, textbooks, accessed modules, and certain annual fees.

General Terms

  • The application fee, if any, is non-refundable.
  • Continuous access to the content is dependent upon adherence to the payment terms and conditions.
  • Absence from exams without valid reasons results in full liability for exam fees.
  • Postponement of exams after registration incurs a fee.

Corporate Training Solutions

At the Accounting Academy, we recognize the evolving needs of businesses in today's dynamic environment. Beyond our standard webinar offerings, we provide tailored corporate training solutions designed to empower your team with the latest in accounting and professional skills. Whether you're looking for online sessions or face-to-face training, our programs are crafted to ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

Drawing inspiration from modern training methodologies, our corporate solutions are interactive, adaptable, and focused on real-world applications. We prioritize hands-on learning, ensuring your team can immediately apply their newfound knowledge in practical scenarios.


Contact Us

Ready to elevate your expertise? Enroll now and embark on a transformative learning journey with SA Accounting Academy.

Have any questions or need any assistance? Contact us today!


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