How Long Does It Take to Become a Qualified Bookkeeper with ICB?
Looking for a flexible and rewarding career in finance?
Bookkeeping is a fantastic choice!
It allows you to work in various industries, start your own business, or even work remotely.
But how long does it take to become a qualified bookkeeper?
Well, the answer depends on the route you take, your study pace, and where you study.
The ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) qualification is one of the quickest and most recognised ways to gain bookkeeping credentials in the UK. If you want to know more about why you should study ICB – check out this blog.
Here’s a breakdown of how long it takes to qualify and how you can fast-track your career.
ICB Qualification Timeline
ICB qualifications are designed to get you job-ready as quickly as possible. The time it takes to complete each level depends on how intensively you study:
- ICB Level 2 (Certificate in Bookkeeping) – Typically 3 to 9 months. Covers basic financial transactions, double-entry bookkeeping, and bank reconciliation.
- ICB Level 3 (Certificate in Bookkeeping & Accounts) – Usually 9 to 12 months. Introduces VAT returns, control accounts, and financial statements.
- ICB Level 4 (Diploma in Advanced Bookkeeping & Accounting) – The Business Insight, Corporation Tax, and Financial Statements could take up to 6 months each. The Self Assessment unit could take a bit longer – up to 9 months.
Many of our students complete Levels 2 and 3 within 12 months. And since you can apply for your ICB practice licence (MICB status) after Level 3 – they can start working as bookkeepers quite quickly.
I Have An AAT Qualification – Are There Exemptions Available?
Yes. If you have completed the AAT Level 3 qualification you won’t need to study at ICB Level 2 which would save 3 to 9 months of study time.
If you’re considering approaching the bookkeeping profession from an overall accounting perspective first, this could be an excellent way to gain practical skills, start working sooner, and then move into full accounting qualifications later.
👉 Not sure if bookkeeping is the right starting point for you? Check out our guide on How Long Does It Take to Become an Accountant?
Note: Training Link’s support, including mock exams, tutor guidance, and study materials, can help you prepare faster and pass the first time. After all, we’ve been recognised as the ICB Training Provider of the Year 12 times!
Another way to accelerate your career is to use ICB as a stepping stone to AAT. Once you qualify with ICB, you can get an exemption from AAT Level 2, allowing you to start at Level 3 and save 3 to 9 months of study time.
Factors That Affect How Quickly You Complete ICB
- 🔹 Study Commitment – The more time you dedicate, the faster you’ll qualify.
- 🔹 Work & Life Balance – If you’re juggling work or family, a part-time approach may take longer but is still flexible.
- 🔹 Prior Knowledge & Experience – If you have bookkeeping experience, you may find certain topics easier and complete exams quicker.
- 🔹 Exam Booking & Availability – Planning your assessments and avoiding long gaps between exams will help you stay on track.
Final Thoughts
ICB is one of the fastest routes to a career in bookkeeping. It’s an ideal option for those looking to gain practical skills quickly and start working sooner.
If you want to move into accounting later, an ICB qualification can also reduce the time needed to complete AAT, helping you advance your career even further.
Training Link offers expert tutor support, flexible study plans, and structured learning resources to help you qualify efficiently and confidently.
👉 Ready to start your bookkeeping career? Explore our ICB courses today!
Stay tuned for more updates, success stories, and insights from our community. Together, let’s continue to strive for excellence and make a difference through hard work and dedication.
Thank you for being a part of our journey and for celebrating this significant milestone with us!
