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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The ISF® certification is tailored for professionals in financial services roles, including investment managers, wealth managers, financial advisors, and insurance professionals. It focuses on integrating sustainable finance principles into financial decision-making processes, enabling professionals to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable investments and financial products. 

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.  

The ISB® certification is designed for professionals in non-finance-related sectors such as mining, manufacturing, retail, legal, environmental production, agriculture, procurement management, government, and non-profit organizations. It emphasizes the application of sustainable business practices across various industries, equipping professionals to drive sustainability initiatives within their organizations and sectors. 

Both programs consist of three levels: Advisor, Specialist, and Expert. Each level has specific eligibility requirements and competency-based assessments aligned with the syllabus. The structure is designed to progressively build and validate expertise in sustainable finance and business practices, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of ESG principles at each stage. 

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 completng the followinf 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 certifications 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 IASE board exams is typically 60%, which equates to answering 24 out of 40 questions correctly for Level 1 exams. 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.