ICFE
When English really counts
Developments such as International Accounting Standards (IAS) are creating international career opportunities for professional accountants. It is essential for individuals who wish to succeed in the international business community to possess first-rate English language skills and the ability to converse with accounting and finance professionals.
What is ICFE?
ICFE (International Certificate in Financial English) is an examination set at levels B2 and C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. ICFE is equivalent in level to the world famous Cambridge First Certificate in English and Certificate in Advanced English, and assesses language skills in a financial context. This certificate can be used as proof of the ability in English necessary to work in an international finance context or to follow a course of accountancy or finance study at university level.
ICFE has been developed by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations in collaboration with ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). The combination has brought together worldwide leaders in English language assessment and in professional accountancy to create a unique financial English qualification. Both organisations share an outstanding reputation for quality and delivery, supported by global networks. As a result, candidates, employers and financial markets can be sure that Cambridge ICFE has been developed by organisations committed to excellence and relevance internationally.
What is the content of ICFE examination?
Examinations are delivered through Cambridge ESOL's network of authorised examination centres throughout Europe and beyond.
Written papers are marked in the UK, by Cambridge ESOL examiners.
The Test of Speaking is conducted face-to-face by qualified oral examiners.
Test results are normally reported within six weeks of the test date. All candidates receive a statement of results showing their performance on each of the four papers and an overall grade. The overall grade boundaries will be as follows: C1 Pass with Merit, C1 Pass, B2 Pass, Narrow Fail and Fail. Candidates who achieve passing grades will receive an official certificate awarded by University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations.
ICFE is recognised around the world by accountancy firms, educational organisations, government agencies, immigration authorities and professional bodies.
A full list of organisations and universities that recognise ICFE can be found on our searchable database.
Preparation courses for ICFE are usually run in private language schools, British Council Teaching Centres and university departments in many countries.
Where and when can I sit ICFE?
The dates for 2011-12 are: (NEW DATES!!!)
Written & oral exam 07.07.12 15.09.12The ICFE exam fee is € 215 from 1/9/2011
1. Before you register, ensure
2. Download the relevant application form below and follow the instructions printed on it.
There are two types of entry forms:
Cambridge ESOL individual application form (MS-WORD 105KB)
Important application notes and guidance (MS-WORD 84 KB)
Cambridge ESOL group application form (MS-WORD 116KB)
Cambridge ESOL online spreadsheet for submitting group entries (MS-EXCEL 50KB)
(*) Group entry applications:
- Group applications will give the teacher/preparation centre access to the "Cambridge ESOL Online for preparation centres" website. This website enables teachers to access their candidates’ exam results directly on the same day as their students. It also includes an exam information area with downloadable fact sheets and links to support materials for teachers and candidates.
- In case of group applications we require full contact details of the person who will be making the group application and only basic information on the candidates entered. Full procedure described on the relevant group entry form.
- There is a reduction of € 10 per candidate for schools or institutions registering 40 candidates or more per level. Please use a block entry form for this purpose.
- All exams can be administered at the premises of any institute or company with a minimum of 30 candidates
3. Complete the ILEC/ICFE registration form and e-mail it, fax it or post it to us to reach us no later the advertised deadline with
(a). a photocopy of your ID card or passport
(b). your proof of payment
Late applications may exceptionally be accepted up to 20 calendar days after the deadline at an additional cost of € 65. Please contact exams@britishcouncil.be before making your application.
4. Methods of payment
Bank transfer in Euro to our local bank account number with candidate’s name + ICFE + exam date.
Account number: 734-0184355-64 IBAN: BE29 7340 1843 5564 BIC: KREDBEBB. KBC Bank, Marnixlaan 31 avenue Marnix , 1000 Brussels
Payments by bank transfer only. Please instruct your financial institution to charge the full transfer costs levied in both countries to your account.
What if I want to cancel or transfer to another centre/session?
Please refer to our Cancellation and Refund Policy before you register.
Do you have arrangements for special needs candidates?
Special arrangements for candidates with a temporary or permanent handicap or learning difficulty
Cambridge ESOL provides a comprehensive service for disabled candidates including those with specific learning difficulties, hearing difficulties or visual difficulties. If this is your case, please contact us before the deadline for registration. We will ask for full details of your particular difficulty (including recent medical evidence in support of your application) and advise you on the arrangements which may be possible.
Three brief guides have been written for disabled candidates who are thinking of taking a Cambridge examination.
exams - customer feedback from (MS Word 45 KB) Cambridge ESOL - refund and transfer policy (Word 40 KB)The United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
A registered charity: 209131 (England and Wales) SC037733 (Scotland)
Our privacy and copyright statements.
Our commitment to freedom of information. Double-click for pop-up dictionary.
Open the original version of this page.
Usablenet Assistive is a UsableNet product. Usablenet Assistive Main Page.