Frequenty Asked Questions (FAQs)

IASE offers two core ESG certification programs: International Sustainable Finance® (ISF®) and International Sustainable Business® (ISB®). Each program has three competency levels: Advisor, Specialist, and Expert, designed to cater to professionals at various stages of their ESG careers. These programs adhere to the International Standards Organisation’s (ISO) ISO/IEC 17024 conformity assessment, which outlines the standards for certifying the competence of persons. 

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ISB Certification Program – Suited to professionals in non-finance-related roles or businesses, including those in mining, manufacturing, retail, legal, environmental production, agriculture, procurement management, government, non-profit organisations and so on. Learn more about this program here. 

ISF Certification Program – Suited to people who work in or want to work in financial services jobs like investment managers, wealth managers, financial advisors, insurance agents, accountants, finance managers, and treasurers. Learn more about this program here.  

Yes, obtaining an IASE certification includes a membership application, which provides access to ongoing professional development resources and a global network of ESG professionals. Membership supports continuous learning and engagement within the ESG community, offering opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and career advancement.  

While both programs are distinct, professionals can choose the certification that best aligns with their career goals and sector focus. Switching between programs may require meeting specific eligibility criteria and completing the necessary assessments. Guidance is available to assist candidates in making informed decisions about their certification path. 

The duration varies depending on the level and individual preparation. Each level is designed to be completed within a reasonable timeframe to accommodate professionals' schedules. The programs are structured to allow for flexible learning and assessment, enabling candidates to progress at their own pace while ensuring mastery of the required competencies. Select the relevant level to learn more about its duration:

ISB/ISF Level 1 

ISB/ISF Level 2 

Yes, IASE certifications are internationally recognized and adhere to ISO/IEC 17024 standards for certifying the competence of individuals. This global recognition ensures that the certifications are respected and valued across various industries and regions, providing professionals with a competitive edge in the global job market. 

Enrollment can be completed through the IASE website, where you can register for the desired certification level and access related resources. The process involves selecting the appropriate certification level, completing the application, and paying the associated fees. Detailed instructions and support are available to guide you through the enrollment process. Get started with the enrollment process by completing the following form.

Certifications (e.g. ISB® and ISF®) require candidates to meet specific eligibility criteria, pass an exam and adhere to maintenance requirements for continuous learning and professional growth to maintain their status. In contrast, training certificates do not have these prerequisites and remain valid indefinitely once awarded. While all IASE credential holders are encouraged to engage in ongoing professional development activities, certifications necessitate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. 

Certification levels serve as essential benchmarks for competency development, aligning expectations between ESG professionals and employers, and providing a framework for setting competency development goals. As individuals advance in their careers and uphold their certifications, their competencies are expected to continually evolve and enhance. 

IASE Global’s syllabus and testing regimes are dynamic and fully updated, allowing for the creation of learning paths tailored to the needs of corporations, ensuring that its programs remain relevant and effective.  

The recommended study time varies by exam level. For example, candidates have reported investing over 130 hours of study to successfully pass Level 1, and 210 hours for Level 2. It’s advisable to plan your study schedule accordingly to ensure thorough preparation.  

The IASE board exams are scheduled periodically throughout the year. Specific dates and deadlines for each exam level are published on the IASE website. It's important to check the website regularly for the most up-to-date information on exam schedules.  

The current board exam dates can be found on the below pages:

ISB/ISF Level 1 

ISB/ISF Level2 

Registration for the IASE board exams can be done through the IASE website . Candidates need to select the desired certification level, complete the application process, and pay the associated fees. Detailed instructions and support are available to guide you through the registration process.  

Yes, all IASE board exams are computer-based, allowing candidates to take the exams from anywhere in the world. This format provides flexibility and convenience for candidates to schedule and complete their exams. 

All IASE exams are administered exclusively online. They can be written from anywhere and on any device of your choice that meets our minimum device requirements! We use state-of-the-art, cyber-security-rich exam technology for all our exams. This is supplemented by proctors who closely watch candidates for any kind of cheating. 

We have strict cyber-security measures in place, and we work continuously with our IT experts to thoroughly define any potential risks and solutions. Our selected system has a track record of success and years of experience in this area, and we partner with them to implement security measures that mitigate any potential risks. We take all available precautions to secure the exams. 

The duration allocated for each IASE board exam varies by level. For instance, Level 1 exams are to be completed within 60 minutes, while Level 2 exams allow 90 minutes. It's important to manage your time effectively during the exam to ensure all questions are answered. 

The passing score for the Level 1 board exams is typically 60%, which equates to answering 24 out of 40 questions correctly. 

For Level 2 exams, the passing score is 60%, requiring at least 30 correct answers out of 50 questions.  

Results of the IASE board exams are typically released via an online medium within four weeks after the examination date. Results are communicated directly to individual candidates only. Candidates can access their results through the IASE website. 

The IASE board exams consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with four options per question, where only one answer is correct. The number of questions and duration vary by certification level. For example, the ISF® Level 1 exam includes 40 MCQs to be completed in 60 minutes, while the ISB® Level 2 exam comprises 50 MCQs with a 90-minute duration. 

Candidates may have the option to reschedule an exam before the scheduled date. Specific policies regarding rescheduling, withdrawals, and any associated fees are detailed in the IASE Examination Terms & Conditions. It's important to review these terms to understand your options. 

All IASE exams are administered exclusively online. They can be written from anywhere and on any device of your choice that meets our minimum device requirements! We use state-of-the-art, cyber-security-rich exam technology for all our exams. This is supplemented by proctors who closely watch candidates for any kind of cheating. 

We have strict cyber-security measures in place, and we work continuously with our IT experts to thoroughly define any potential risks and solutions. Our selected system has a track record of success and years of experience in this area, and we partner with them to implement security measures that mitigate any potential risks. We take all available precautions to secure the exams.

You can find all upcoming training and board exam dates at the following page on our website: https://iase.co.za/exam-dates-and-deadlines/ 

The Exponential Education Institute, designated as an 'Academic Collaborating Entity' by IASE, offers comprehensive online, self-paced ESG training courses. This partnership ensures high-quality educational content aligned with IASE's certification standards, providing candidates with a robust learning experience.  

The courses cater to various competency levels, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced professionals seeking to enhance their ESG knowledge. The curriculum is designed to build foundational knowledge and advance to more complex concepts, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience 

Yes, the training courses include comprehensive study materials to support candidates' preparation for the board exams. These materials are curated to enhance understanding and application of ESG principles, providing a solid foundation for the certification exams 

The training courses are exclusively online and self-paced, allowing candidates to study at their convenience. This format accommodates professionals' schedules and provides flexibility in learning, enabling candidates to balance their studies with other commitments 

You can find all upcoming training and board exam dates at the following page on our website: https://iase.co.za/exam-dates-and-deadlines/  

Yes. Send your request to [email protected]. 

Not yet. 

Our ESG training courses are primarily aimed at helping candidates prepare and pass IASE’s international board exams. Even though we give each student a Certificate of Completion at the end of the course, they are not full qualifications in their own right.

However, in coordination with the IASE Africa Regional Office, started the process of engaging with the relevant education authorities in South Africa, with the view to eventually gaining recognition.

Contact your local IASE Office to learn more. 

Absolutely. Exponential Education has been designated as an ‘Academic Collaborating Entity’ by IASE (International Association for Sustainable Economy), making it an ‘Official Provider’ of training for ESG certification. 

Notwithstanding when you register and pay for the course, candidates are only provided access to the learning platform and materials around one day before the
official start day of the course.

Please also take note that candidates can only access all the training materials we provides on our learning platform. These materials cannot be printed or downloadable to your local drive. 

Candidates can individually contact lecturers when they need assistance with their studies.

Their trained and experienced support staff are always on hand to assist students with any admin or technical queries that they may have. 

Yes. At the end of the training course, we give each candidate a Certificate of Completion. 

At the end of all the sessions, the student take 2 mock exams (the questions are modeled around those set by IASE in their board exams).

Therefore, your score in the mock exams would give you somewhat of an indication was to your readiness to challenge IASE’s corresponding board examination. 

Exponential Education is a leading educational institution offering online training with four schools covering a wide range of topics of great importance to 21st century society, including multiple aspects of ESG.

Absolutely. Exponential Education has been designated as an ‘Academic Collaborating Entity’ by IASE (International Association for Sustainable Economy), making it an ‘Official Provider’ of training for ESG certification. 

Our courses are designed to be self-paced, meaning that we do not have live lectures. We provide students with study materials in the form of recorded video and audio lectures, written technical notes and summaries. 

All our ESG courses are exclusively online. This means that you can attend our courses, anywhere, anytime and from any device. 

Yes. IASE offers various bundles for its certification programs. Please vsit the respetive program pages to learn more about their fees:

ISB/ISF Level 1 

ISB/ISF Level 2 

IASE offers various bundles for its certification programs. Please vsit the respetive program pages to learn more about their fees:

ISB/ISF Level 1 

ISB/ISF Level 2 

IASE offers various bundles for its certification programs.Please vsit the respetive program pages to learn more about their fees:

ISB/ISF Level 1 

ISB/ISF Level 2  

 Invoices are typically provided upon successful payment. If you require a copy of your invoice, please contact IASE's support team via the Contact Us page  

Fees are generally consistent across regions; however, currency conversions may apply. 

Currently, we do not offer an installment payment plan. 

Payments can be made through the IASE website using various payment methods, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers. Detailed payment instructions are provided during the registration process . 

You can also generate a free quotation or pro forma invoice for you or your employer.

IASE offers various bundles for its certification programs.Please vsit the respetive program pages to learn more about their fees:

ISB/ISF Level 1 

ISB/ISF Level 2 

Sorry. We don’t offer any scholarships or discounts at this time.

IASE occasionally offers promotional discounts on its certification bundles. For the most current information on available discounts, please visit the IASE website. 

Yes, your employer can pay for the course. If your employer is paying for your course, you can generate a quotation or pro forma invoice for free in the name of your employer, then submit it to them for payment.

To generate a quote please fill the form on the following page: GET FREE QUOTE 

IASE Global, headquartered in London, United Kingdon, is a non-profit professional association that sets international standards for the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) profession. IASE Africa, registered in South Africa, is a member organization representing IASE Global's interests across the African continent. IASE Africa is responsible for implementing IASE Global's programs locally and contributes to the development of global standards by providing expertise to relevant global committees. 

IASE offers 100% online certifications, developed by many international experts, and adapted to the needs of organizations, providing flexible and accessible professional development opportunities.  

The ISF® and ISB® certification marks are recognized globally as symbols of excellence in the ESG profession, enhancing professional credibility and demonstrating a commitment to industry standards. 

Also, IASE establishes and enforces compliance with the highest global professional and ethical standards for ESG practitioners, ensuring that its certifications uphold integrity and trust.  

We offer ongoing professional development resources and a global network of ESG professionals, supporting continuous learning and engagement within the ESG community. 

Lastly, IASE Global offers ongoing professional development resources and a global network of ESG professionals, supporting continuous learning and engagement within the ESG community. 

IASE Global’s certifications are dynamic, fully updated, and agreed upon by a large number of international experts, allowing for the creation of learning paths tailored to the needs of corporations. 

It works to develop and maintain global standards for the ongoing development of practice and certifications, positioning itself as a thought leader and voice of the ESG community. 

IASE Global collaborates with various international organizations, governments, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and civil society to advocate for the ESG profession and develop best-practice standards.  

ASE Africa's leadership comprises professionals with diverse expertise in sustainable finance and business. Notable directors include:

Mr. Godfrey Nti: Board Chairperson of IASE South Africa and Vice Chairperson of IASE Global. He is an entrepreneur, business leader, strategy consultant, and international speaker with over 22 years of experience. He currently serves as the Executive Director of GNN Strategy Consultants and Managing Director of The Leads People Marketing Strategy Pty Ltd. He also holds directorships across Africa, including independent non-executive director positions on the boards of three companies and one not-for-profit organization. 

Mr. Johan Aucamp: Founding Director of IASE South Africa. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® with a decade of experience in professional bodies, business development, and training within the financial sector. Johan is passionate about environmental and social affairs, believing that ESG principles are integral to sustainable human activity. 

Dr. Rosita Yocgo: Director at IASE South Africa. She is a researcher with an interest in plant interactions and the environment, aiming to promote a sustainable, food-secured world. Dr. Yocgo holds a PhD in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Pretoria and has post-PhD experience at the University of Gent and the University of Stellenbosch. She is deeply passionate about environmental, climate, plant, and gender issues, advocating for strategic education and evidence-based research to unlock inclusive sustainability approaches. 

These directors, among others, contribute their expertise to advance IASE Africa's mission of enhancing professional standards in sustainable finance and business across the continent. 

Professionals in Africa can benefit from IASE Africa's offerings by gaining access to internationally recognized ESG certifications, enhancing their career prospects, and contributing to the advancement of sustainable practices within their organizations and communities. 

IASE Africa ensures the quality of ESG certifications by adhering to the standards set by IASE Global. It implements rigorous training programs, conducts assessments, and maintains a network of qualified professionals to uphold the integrity and credibility of the certifications. 

The partnership between IASE Africa and IASE Global is significant because it enables the localization of global ESG standards and certifications, making them accessible and relevant to professionals in Africa. This collaboration fosters a unified approach to advancing the ESG profession worldwide 

IASE promotes the ISF® and ISB® certifications by advocating for their recognition among regulators, policymakers, employers, and other stakeholders. It also organizes training programs and events to raise awareness and encourage professionals to pursue these qualifications. 

IASE Africa contributes to the development of global ESG standards by providing regional expertise and insights. This collaboration ensures that the standards are relevant and effective across diverse regions, including Africa.  

Yes, African countries can become full member organizations of IASE Global. IASE Africa is responsible for growing the profession in African countries until they are ready to establish their own member organizations, thereby expanding IASE Global's presence and influence across the continent. 

IASE Africa provides resources, training, and certification opportunities to ESG professionals across the continent. By offering access to globally recognized qualifications, it enhances the credibility and marketability of professionals, thereby contributing to the growth of the ESG sector in Africa. 

The ISF® (International Sustainable Finance) and ISB® (International Sustainable Business) certification programs are competency-based qualifications offered by IASE Global. Each program has three levels—Advisor, Specialist, and Expert—designed to validate the expertise of professionals in sustainable finance and business practices. These certifications are recognized globally as symbols of excellence in the ESG profession. 

IASE Africa plays a pivotal role in advancing the ESG profession within Africa by promoting IASE Global's certification programs and practice standards. It advocates for the ESG profession to regulators, policymakers, employers, and other stakeholders, ensuring that the ISF® and ISB® certification marks are recognized as symbols of excellence in ESG. 

Yes! Our courses and certification programs are online and self-paced and are thus designed for busy professionals. They can learn at their own pace without disrupting work. Plus, a dedicated tutor and support staff is available for support. 

Yes, for the courses,upong successful completion your employees will receive a certificate from the relevant approved-course provider. For our certification program, they will recieve a digital certificate from IASE confirming that the employee has met all the requirements for the certification level they applied for.  

Yes. Upon request, your Account Manager will provide you with detailed performance reports, including your employees’ progress, grades, and overall performance throughout the program. This ensures you have full visibility into their learning journey and development. 

Your employees will get dedicated support from their tutor and and support throughout their learning journey. The Tutor offers academic support and responds to queries relating to the course material, and the support staff assists with administrative queries such as extensions or possible login difficulties. 

You can defer your course start date or request a full refund anytime before the start date. Contact us, or your organization’s Learning & Development Manager for assistance. See our terms & conditions for details. 

Yes, our courses run year-round. Your team can join the next session, and your assigned Business Account Manager can assist with any questions. 

If you are a CPD provider, academic institution, or employer interested in ESG capacity building, you can explore partnership opportunities with IASE Africa by contacting us through our Partnerships page or emailing [email protected]. 

IASE Africa (with office in Johannesburg, South Africa) is the official continental representative of IASE Global (with head office in London, United Kingdom) , responsible for promoting globally recognized ESG certifications across Africa. While IASE Global sets the standards and oversees the certification framework, IASE Africa ensures African perspectives are represented and provides local access, support, and partnerships. 

ISB® (International Sustainable Business) and ISF® (International Sustainable Finance) are professional ESG certifications developed by IASE Global. They equip professionals with the competencies needed to lead in sustainability, finance, and business environments globally. 

Any professional working or aspiring to work in sustainability, ESG, finance, business, or policy can pursue certification through IASE. IASE Africa supports candidates across all African countries and sectors. 

IASE Africa does not offer training directly, but we endorse and promote accredited training partners who deliver high-quality programs aligned with IASE certification standards. These courses help professionals prepare for the ISB® and ISF® designations. 

While aligned with global standards, IASE Africa works to contextualize ESG principles through local partnerships, and advocacy—ensuring that African professionals are equipped to lead both locally and internationally. 

Yes. IASE and its training partners can design and deliver customized ESG programs for corporate teams, boards, NGOs, or public sector staff.

Contact us to learn more about tailored ESG training solutions. 

IASE offers a range of non-certification training including:

• ESG awareness sessions for employees
• Short CPD courses for professionals
• Topical workshops on climate, SDGs, or governance
• Company-wide ESG onboarding programs
• Some are free; others are low-cost and highly accessible 

Yes. All ESG training courses include assessments or final exercises. Upon completion, you receive a Certificate of Achievement from the IASE-authorized training provider. 

IASE partners with authorized training providers who meet our quality, relevance, and ethical standards.

These providers deliver programs aligned with our ESG competency frameworks and are endorsed by IASE as preparation for our certifications. 

Yes — absolutely.

That’s actually how many professionals start.

You can complete the training now and register for the IASE Board Exam later when you feel ready to pursue certification. 

No. Many learners take ESG training courses to gain immediate career-relevant skills or earn a certificate of achievement.

The IASE-endorsed training courses also prepare you for the Board Exam, so you're ready if or when you decide to pursue full certification. 

ESG training builds your knowledge and skills in sustainability and responsible governance.

ESG certification, on the other hand, is a formal, ongoing validation of your competence and professionalism — often including a board exam, adherence to a code of ethics, and continued learning (CPD). Learn more about the difference between ESG Training and ESG Certification.

IASE offers both: training for learning, and certi fication for long-term professional recognition. 

No — you can complete the training and stop there, or continue on to certification later, if desired. The training courses are standalone professional development activities.Upon completion, you'll receive a Certificate of Achievement from the IASE-endorsed Training Provider .

However, if you aim to obtain an IASE certification, passing the Board Exam is a required step. The training courses are structured to serve as preparatory programs for the IASE Board Exams, providing the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed. 

Many candidates choose to take the exam shortly after finishing the training to capitalize on the freshly acquired knowledge and maintain momentum toward certification. 

Yes — all Certification-Pathway courses award a Certificate of Achievement. For each chapter completed, you get a short assessment to measure your mastery of its content. At the end of the course, you take an overall mock assessment to measure your overall master of the subject matter.

Authorized training providers endorsed by IASE. See the list of authorised training providers

Yes — many of these courses are CPD-accredited.

Yes — we offer customised, in-house and virtual programs. 

No — these are designed for standalone learning, not certification preparation. See our certification-linked courses if you are interested.

No prior experience is necessary. The ISB Level 1 course is designed for beginners and provides a comprehensive introduction to ESG principles, making it suitable for professionals from various backgrounds seeking to understand sustainability concepts. 

Completing the course equips you with foundational ESG knowledge, enhances your professional profile, and prepares you for the IASE Board Exam. It also demonstrates your commitment to sustainability, which is increasingly valued in today's business environment. 

Yes, the ISB Level 1 course is available online and is designed to be self-paced, allowing you to complete the training at your convenience within a specified timeframe. 

Yes, after achieving ISB ADVISOR® certification, you can pursue higher levels of IASE certifications, such as ISB SPECIALIST® (Level 2) and ISB EXPERT® (Level 3), to deepen your ESG knowledge and expertise. 

After completing the training you will receive a Ceritifcate of Completion from the training provider.

If, after completing the training, you want to be certified by IASE, you can register for the IASE Board Exam. Upon passing the exam, you will receive the ISB ADVISOR® certification, signifying your proficiency in ESG principles and practices. 

The certification demonstrates your expertise in ESG, opening opportunities in various sectors that prioritize sustainability. It can enhance your qualifications for roles in corporate responsibility, sustainability consulting, and other related fields. 

Plus, the training course is structured to alo serve as a board exam preparatory course, should you want to validate your ESG knowledge by obtaining IASE's ISB ADVISOR® credential.

No prior financial experience is required. The ISF Level 1 course is designed for beginners and professionals from various fields seeking foundational ESG knowledge applicable to the financial sector. 

Completing the ISF Level 1 course equips you with essential ESG competencies, enhancing your qualifications for roles in sustainable finance, investment analysis, and compliance. It also prepares you for the ISF Advisor certification exam, a recognized credential in the ESG field. 

The ISF ADVISOR certification exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, administered online. You have 60 minutes to complete the exam, and a score of at least 60% (24 correct answers) is required to pass. Learn more about ISF ADVISOR certification program .

The ISF Level 1 course is delivered online and self-paced, allowing you to complete it within approximately 6 weeks, dedicating around 30 hours of study time. 

Absolutely. You'll have a structured credential to show ESG knowledge in finance.

As an online, self-paced course, support may include access to course materials, forums, and assistance from the course provider. Specific support offerings can vary, so it's advisable to check with the provider for detailed information. 

Yes, while the training course is recommended for thorough preparation, it's not mandatory. You can register for the ISF Level 1 certification exam independently through the IASE website. 

Yes — this course supports both standalone learning and certification preparation. 

Yes — it provides valuable skills and a certificate of achievement. 

Yes — it's ideal for professionals aiming to lead ESG implementation efforts. 

The course is delivered online, allowing for flexible, self-paced learning. It typically spans 12 weeks, requiring a minimum of 60 study hours. It includes interactive modules, case studies, and assessments to reinforce learning. 

This course is ideal for professionals aiming to specialize in ESG, including sustainability managers, ESG consultants, and corporate leaders seeking to integrate ESG strategies into their organizations. 

Achieving this certification demonstrates advanced ESG expertise, enhancing career prospects and credibility in the field of sustainable business practices. 

Upon completing the course, candidates can sit for the ISB Level 2 certification exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 90 minutes. A passing score of 70% is required. 

Key areas include advanced ESG integration, sustainable finance, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and ESG reporting standards. 

The ISB Level 2 course delves deeper into ESG concepts, offering advanced insights into sustainable business practices. It builds upon the foundational knowledge from Level 1, focusing on strategic implementation and specialized ESG competencies. 

Yes, the ISB Level 2 certification is recognized globally, aligning with international ESG standards and practices. 

The ISF Level 2 course delves deeper into ESG concepts, offering advanced insights into sustainable finance practices. It builds upon the foundational knowledge from Level 1, focusing on strategic implementation and specialized ESG competencies. 

This course is ideal for professionals aiming to specialize in ESG within the financial sector, including asset managers, risk analysts, compliance officers, and financial advisors seeking to integrate ESG strategies into their roles. 

Achieving this certification demonstrates advanced ESG expertise, enhancing career prospects and credibility in the field of sustainable finance. 

The course is delivered online over 12 weeks, requiring approximately 60 hours of study. It includes interactive modules, case studies, and assessments to reinforce learning. 

Upon completing the course, candidates can sit for the ISF Level 2 certification exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 90 minutes. A passing score of 70% is required. 

Exponential Education Institute is an IASE-endorsed Academic Collaborating Entity, recognized as an official provider of ESG training for the International Association for Sustainable Economy (IASE). In Africa, IASE Africa serves as the regional representative of IASE, overseeing the promotion and coordination of ESG certifications across the continent. While Exponential Education Institute operates independently, it collaborates closely with IASE Africa to offer online, self-paced ESG training programs that prepare candidates for IASE’s ISB® (International Sustainable Business) and ISF® (International Sustainable Finance) certifications. This partnership ensures that learners in Africa have access to high-quality ESG education aligned with IASE’s global standards. 

The curriculum is developed by a diverse team of experts from over 20 countries, ensuring content reflects the latest global ESG practices and standards. 

Learners have access to a dedicated support team, discussion forums, and additional resources to assist throughout the course. 

The courses are among the first-ever IASE-endorsed ESG training programs, offering comprehensive, globally recognized certifications in both sustainable business and finance. 

All courses are entirely online and self-paced, allowing professionals to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. 

These are academic or training institutions that have been officially reviewed and authorised by IASE to deliver ESG training courses aligned with IASE’s ISB and ISF certification frameworks. 

IASE-Endorsed Providers deliver ESG courses that align with IASE principles but are not exam-specific. ACEs, on the other hand, deliver courses vetted and approved by IASE Global for the explicit purpose of preparing candidates for board exams.

Yes. Some institutions, like Exponential Training Institute, have both designations. They offer general ESG training and dedicated exam prep courses.

No course can guarantee success. However, ACE courses are structured to closely follow IASE syllabi and offer the best available preparation.

Interested institutions should contact IASE Africa for guidance. Endorsement and ACE recognition follow distinct application and review processes.

Yes. Both higher education institutions and vocational colleges can apply, provided they meet the quality standards set by IASE Global.

Yes. While English is the primary language of instruction, providers may offer training in other languages depending on the region and delivery format.

Yes. Endorsed providers issue a Certificate of Achievement for each completed course. This is separate from IASE’s formal certification, which requires passing a board exam. 

Many providers offer flexible options, including online, self-paced learning. Others offer hybrid or in-person formats. You can compare formats in the provider table above. 

Yes. While IASE Global certifies the providers, registration, course access, and support are handled directly by the endorsed partner. To facilitate local registrations, qupte generation and invoicing, candidates can also register through IASE Africa office, who will then ensure that duly paid candidates are properly registered by the traning provider. This additional service by IASE Africa serves to simplify the enrolment process for candidates, especialy in situations whereby a candidate:

• needs a quotation or pro forma invoice to submit to their employer
• wants a single point of contact and accountability especially if the candidate is also registering the IASE board exams.

No, but many learners choose to continue to certification. Endorsed training courses are structured to serve both as professional development and board exam preparation. 

Each approved CPD activity is valid for one year from the date of approval. After this period, the activity must be resubmitted for reassessment to ensure continued alignment with evolving ESG standards and learning methodologies. 

Yes, we offer bulk submission discounts for recognised CPD Providers who submit multiple activities in the same cycle. Please refer to the pricing section of the application form or contact us directly for a custom quotation. 

Only organisations already recognised by IASE Africa as CPD Providers are eligible. You can learn more about the CPD Provider approval process .

You can submit workshops, online courses, masterclasses, lectures, webinars, or blended formats. 

You will receive detailed feedback and may resubmit after addressing the issues identified by the CPD Committee. We’ll never reject a submission outright. If improvements are needed, we’ll provide constructive feedback aligned with the ESG ASCEND Framework. You’re encouraged to revise and resubmit—at no extra cost. 

We aim to start each review within 2 weeks. Depending on complexity, turnaround time may vary. During busy periods, reviews may take up to 6 weeks. 

Yes. Every approved activity receives a verifiable activity reference number and a digital badge you can proudly display. 

We encourage updates in line with new ESG insights or teaching methods. Just resubmit the revised version for reassessment—no extra charge in the case of minor changes needed. 

Yes. Please refer to the application form for the current fee structure. Alternative, you can check the CPD Activities Approval fees here .

our fees cover the cost of course or activity approval. Our specialist compliance team manually reviews each activity against the E.S.G. A.S.C.E.N.D. Framework. This ensures the quality and relevance of ESG content—and helps cover the cost of expert time and oversight. 

A CPD Provider is an organisation recognised as having the credibility and systems to deliver effective ESG-aligned continuing professional development (CPD) learning. 

Yes. You can check out the fees here .

Not directly. Being recognised as a CPD Provider verifies your organisation's credibility to deliver ESG-related learning. However, individual courses or activities must go through the separate CPD Activity Approval process. 

Recognition gives you a competitive edge. You receive a unique approval number, digital logo, and CPD Provider certificate—plus the trust that comes with IASE Africa’s endorsement. Your organisation also gains visibility as part of our future CPD provider directory. 

The process is fully digital and eco-friendly. You’ll be asked to upload details about your organisation, your training offerings, and your operational policies. No paperwork or printing required. 

You can begin submitting your individual ESG-aligned training activities for formal CPD Activity Approval. Each approved activity will carry its own reference number and badge. 

Our team typically reviews new provider applications within 5–10 business days, depending on application volume. 

You will receive a CPD Provider Certificate, a unique approval number, a digital approval logo, and a profile listing in our online provider register (launching soon). 

Once approved, your CPD Provider status is valid for 12 months from the date of approval. You’ll need to renew annually to maintain your active recognition status. 

We’ll notify you before your recognition lapses. You’ll be invited to renew your provider status by confirming that your organisational standards and policies remain aligned with IASE’s baseline quality requirements. 

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development. It refers to the process of maintaining and enhancing your knowledge, skills, and experience throughout your professional career—particularly in response to changing environments, technologies, and regulations. 

CPD helps professionals stay current, competent, and competitive. It ensures that their knowledge evolves with industry developments and enables them to deliver better value to employers, clients, and communities. 

• Keeps your skills sharp and up to date
• Improves confidence and professional credibility
• Boosts employability and career progression
• Demonstrates a commitment to lifelong learning
• Meets regulatory or membership requirements in many professions 

CPD points (also called units or credits) are a way of measuring your participation in CPD activities. One CPD hour typically equals one CPD point. At IASE, approved training activities come with a specified number of verifiable CPD points. 

CPD activities fall into three broad categories:

• Structured (Active Learning): Workshops, courses, webinars, qualifications
• Reflective (Passive Learning): Reading articles, watching videos, industry research
• Experiential (On-the-job Learning): Projects, mentoring, secondments, committee work 

CPD activities fall into three broad categories:

• Structured (Active Learning): Workshops, courses, webinars, qualifications
• Reflective (Passive Learning): Reading articles, watching videos, industry research
• Experiential (On-the-job Learning): Projects, mentoring, secondments, committee work 

CPD Provider Recognition is about your organisation. It confirms that you meet IASE’s baseline standards to deliver CPD training.

CPD Activity Approval applies to individual training courses or activities, which are evaluated against our ESG ASCEND™ framework to ensure quality, rigour, and relevance. 

This is IASE Africa’s proprietary standard used to evaluate and structure ESG-related CPD. It ensures your learning journey supports Awareness, Specialisation, Competence, Evaluation, Networking, and Delivery in sustainability and governance contexts. 

Not necessarily. To be considered CPD, training should have learning outcomes, measurable benefits, and be relevant to your role or career development. That’s why IASE uses a formal approval process to evaluate content quality and relevance. 

Only recognised CPD providers or professional bodies like IASE can officially assign CPD points to activities. This adds credibility and ensures consistency across industries. 

CPD should be documented in a log or portfolio that includes activity titles, dates, duration (hours), key learnings, and reflections. Many professionals submit this annually to their employer or governing body (for example, IASE ). 

Employer sponsorship refers to when a company pays for or supports your ESG training or certification as part of its commitment to sustainability and employee development. 

Start by downloading the Employer Sponsorship Toolkit. It includes everything you need to build a strong 

Yes. The toolkit is suitable for all levels of IASE’s ISB and ISF programs — from ADVISOR® to EXPERT®. You may also use the toolkit for any ESG training courses offered by any of IASE's Recognised Academic Providers

No. While IASE provides resources and guidance, securing sponsorship depends on your employer's internal policies and approval process. 

Yes — 100% free. We created it to help professionals like you build ESG competence and create change from within your organization. 

It’s a partial financial support program for professionals pursuing ESG certification at the Advisor level. 

It partially covers the cost of an ESG training course, the IASE board exam fee, and your first-year membership with IASE Global. 

No. This sponsorship is only open to applicants who have not yet registered for an upcoming IASE board exam. 

Yes. We encourage applications from unemployed or underemployed professionals, especially those pursuing ESG careers. 

Yes. Citizens or residents of any African country may apply. Future bursaries may target specific countries or sectors. 

You must meet IASE’s minimum entry requirements for the ADVISOR® level of the ISB or ISF track. 

No. You must use your award within the period specified in your award email. It cannot be transferred or deferred. 

We aim to notify all applicants within 30 days of the application closing date. 

A process to confirm if a CPD Provider, academic partner or their programs are officially accredited by IASE. 

Check that it includes a valid reference number, visible validity period, and QR code linking back to this verification page. 

No problem. Just use the form to submit the name of the provider or program, and we’ll investigate manually. 

We aim to respond to all verification requests within 2 business days or less.

Yes — but only officially approved providers may display the IASE CPD Provider badge with their reference number and active status.