International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety

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Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements for this qualification, however it is important that learners have a suitable standard of English language in order to understand and articulate the concepts contained in the syllabus.

NEBOSH recommends that learners undertaking this qualification should reach a minimum standard of English equivalent to an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.0 or higher in IELTS tests.

For further information please see the IELTS website.

A chart mapping IELTS scores to the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR) can be found on the British Council and IELTS websites:

• British Council - Understand and explain the IELTS scores
• IELTS - Common European Framework

Learners wishing to assess their own language expertise may consult the IELTS website for information on taking the test. Your chosen Learning Partner may also be able to recommend a method of pre-learning assessment of language. 

Important note: the NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety (October 2018 specifications) is a standalone qualification. This means that you will not be able to use units from other NEBOSH qualifications against any part of this qualification.

How to study

Choosing a Learning Partner

Every learner must register with a NEBOSH accredited Learning Partner and undertake the relevant learning before taking an assessment and gaining a qualification. It is not possible to self-study for a NEBOSH qualification. 

Our global network of Learning Partners provide excellent learning and support and will help you prepare for your assessments. You can search for Learning Partners in our Where to Study section, and can filter the results by multiple factors, such as location and mode of study.

You should ensure that the Learning Partner you choose offers the qualification in the way you want to study. We recommend that you explore your options before selecting a Learning Partner as it is an important personal choice.

The factors you may wish to consider include:

• Mode of Study – Options available include face to face, distance learning, in-company training and eLearning. Has one method of learning been more effective for you in the past?
• Course Structure – If you opt for classroom training, would you prefer day or evening classes, block release or a modular course?
• Language – The International General Certificate is available in multiple languages, including Arabic, English and French. Make sure your chosen Learning Partner offers the qualification in your preferred language.
• Location – Being able to study and sit your examinations locally may be an important consideration for you. NEBOSH examinations are taken in over 130 countries.
• On-going support – Will the support provided during your course and in the run up to your assessments match your expectations?

FIND A LEARNING PARTNER

Cost

Each Learning Partner sets their own fees to reflect the service offered. We recommend you contact a number of Learning Partners to establish what their fees are and what is included in the fee. Costs can vary depending on the mode of study, the level of support given, and the inclusion of examination registration fees, for example. 

Read more about our Learning Partner Programme and how to choose the right Learning Partner for you: Choosing a NEBOSH Learning Partner. 

What does it cost and how long does it take?

How long does it take?

The International General Certificate will involve a minimum of 65 taught hours and approximately 40 hours of private study and background reading.

It is possible for fast track learners to complete the qualification in 10 working days.

How much does it cost?

Costs will vary depending on:

• The Learning Partner you to choose to study with
• The mode of study you select
• The level of support you are given

Professional Recognition and SQA Accreditation

Maintaining professional standards

The NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety has been accredited and credit rated by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) Accreditation. It sits in the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at SCQF Level 6 with 11 SCQF credit points.

SCQF Level 6 is comparable to RQF/CQFW Level 3 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

See the Qualifications Can Cross Boundaries chart issued by the UK regulators.

Where appropriate, the SQA Accreditation logo will appear on certificates awarded for this qualification. The SCQF logo, credit and level information will appear on the unit result notification. Please visit the SCQF website for further information on credit and levels.

Professional body recognition

Holders of the NEBOSH International General Certificate are entitled to:

• Associate Membership (AIIRSM) of the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM). 
• Affiliate Membership (AIOSH) of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). The qualification also meets the academic requirements for Technical Membership (Tech IOSH) of IOSH with appropriate experience. (Assessments must be taken in the UK to be eligible for IOSH membership, unless the learner was registered with NEBOSH before 31 August 2022. More information on recent changes can be found here: Recognition of NEBOSH Qualifications.)

Examinations

Confirmation of registration for IG1 digital assessment

Once your Learning Partner has registered you to a digital assessment, NEBOSH will send you a Confirmation of Registration email that includes your learner number, and important information relating to your digital assessment. Please ensure that you check your name is spelt correctly and report this to your learning partner and NEBOSH if any changes are required. If you have not received this email please remember to check your spam folders.

Login details

Following receipt of your Confirmation of Registration email for your digital assessment, NEBOSH will send you a further email containing your Username and Password for the NEBOSH online examination platform. If you have not received this email please remember to check your spam folders.

Examination dates

IG1 - The invigilated paper-based exam has been permanently replaced with a digital assessment. Learners will have 24 hours to access, complete and submit their paper starting from 11am (UK time) on the examination date.

IG1 is available in English, Arabic, French, Portuguese (European), Russian, Spanish (European) and Turkish, however language options will not be available for all sittings.

IG2 - This is a practical assessment where learners will complete a risk assessment and develop an action plan for their workplace. Please speak to your Learning Partner for further information and submission dates. 

Examination results

All results for assessments taken in English (including those for the practical application) should be received within 50 working days from the date of the examination or submission of assignment. The specific date is written on your assessment registration confirmation.