CIBA Higher Education Institution Accreditation
Accredit your programme. Align to professional competencies. Strengthen graduate outcomes.
CIBA accredits Higher Education Institution (HEI) programmes to confirm that curriculum, assessment, academic capacity, and student support meet the standards required for CIBA’s professional designations.
Accreditation with CIBA requires Higher Education Institutes to demonstrate that their academic programmes meet the professional, competency-based standards expected of future business and financial leaders.
This page explains the accreditation process and allows your institution to apply online and upload supporting documentation.
Who should apply?
This accreditation is suited for HEIs offering programmes in accounting, finance, and related business disciplines where graduates may pursue a CIBA designation pathway.
What you will need before you start
To complete your application, please ensure you have the required documents available in PDF format (preferred). Where multiple files are required (e.g., assessments), you may upload individual files per module or upload a single zipped folder if your system allows it.
Accreditation Process Overview
Phase 1: Desktop Accreditation (Provisional Accreditation)
Desktop accreditation is a document-based review of the programme and the institution’s ability to deliver it in line with CIBA’s competency requirements.
Step 1: Submit required documentation
Step 2: Complete competency framework mapping (minimum 80% alignment)
Step 3: CIBA Accreditation Committee review and outcome
If successful, the programme is granted Provisional Accreditation for three (3) years.
Phase 2: Site Visit (Full Accreditation)
During the three-year provisional period, CIBA will conduct a site visit to verify documentation, review facilities and resources, and conduct interviews with programme leadership, academic staff, and students.
If successful, accreditation is extended to a full accreditation period of five (5) years.
Recognition of Existing Professional Accreditation (Exemptions)
In the spirit of professional collaboration and mutual recognition within the accounting and finance profession, CIBA recognises accreditation granted by established professional bodies.
If your programme is already accredited by SAICA, SAIPA, CIMA, or ACCA, you may qualify for exemptions as follows:
- Examples of assessments, including evidence of moderation is waived
- Competency Framework Mapping is waived, and
Phase 2: Site Visit is waived
You must upload formal proof of the current accreditation, such as:
Accreditation letter or certificate
Confirmation of accreditation status and validity period
Any applicable conditions of accreditation
Please note: even where exemptions apply, the programme must still successfully complete Phase 1: Desktop Accreditation (document submission, excluded the competency framework mapping, and committee review).
Apply for Accreditation (Online Application)
Use the form below to submit your application and upload supporting documents.
You will be asked to provide:
1. Institution and faculty details
2. Programme details and qualification information
3. Delivery mode and academic year structure
4. Contact person details (HOD / programme coordinator)
5. Uploads for all required documentation
After submission:
1. You will receive an email confirmation of receipt
2. CIBA will review your submission and may request additional information
3. The Accreditation Committee will issue an outcome: approval, conditional approval, or feedback for revision
Processing and Communication
CIBA will acknowledge receipt of a complete application and communicate next steps. Where information is missing or unclear, the institution will be contacted to submit outstanding documents or clarifications.
Need assistance?
If you need support with the application or document requirements, please contact CIBA’s Accreditation Team.
Nicolene Steenkamp:
Email: nsteenkamp@myciba.org
Faith Ngwenya
Email: fngwenya@myciba.org
