BCS Certificate in IT

Take the first step in your international HEQ journey - the Certificate level focuses on three core modules and is comparable to the first year of a university degree.

Who is it for?

  • The Certificate in IT is for students looking to build a solid foundation for a career in IT and computing

What are the entry requirements?

Is there any exemption?

  • If you already hold a qualification that covers the HEQ syllabus, you may qualify for exemption from a particular module.

    Check exemption criteria

Revised syllabi

The syllabi for the BCS Higher Education Qualifications have been revised to ensure ongoing fitness for purpose and currency. These updates constitute a minor update in accordance with the regulatory requirements and so are focused around revisions to the recommended reading lists, and some minor edits to the syllabi content.

Candidates are advised to ensure that they review the updated syllabi to inform preparation for the March 2020 examination sessions.

The new syllabi will come into effect for papers sat at the March 2020 sessions and onwards. The current syllabi will continue to be used for the September 2019 examination session, and these will continue to be available on the BCS website until the September 2019 examination session has finished.

If you have any questions regarding this update, please contact Customer Services.

What will I learn?

Current syllabi*

Three core modules covering fundamental principles in IT:

*To be used for the September 2019 examination session.

New syllabi**

Three core modules covering fundamental principles in IT:

**Updated syllabi for examinations from March 2020.

How do I get this qualification?

Complete training programme (recommended)

Complete your study with a BCS approved training provider - they're located around the world.

How long will it take?

Study typically takes six months.

Where can I study?

We have BCS approved training providers in:

  • Mauritius
  • Nigeria
  • Pakistan
  • Sri Lanka
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

How much does it cost?

Course prices vary depending on your chosen training provider and course format.

Find a provider

Exam only (study on your own)

Ideal if you’re self-motivated and already have some basic IT knowledge.

How long will it take?

To prepare for your exams, we recommend a minimum of 200 hours of study for each of the three modules - that's 600 hours in total.

There's a two-hour exam at the end of each module.

Where do I sit my exams?

We have exam venues across the world, including Colombo and Reduit.

How much does it cost?

Exam price (per module): £40

Register for exam

What format are the exams?

Computer and network technology module

  • Two hour ‘closed book’
  • Pass mark: 40%

Past papers and exam reports

Information systems module

  • Two hour ‘closed book’
  • Pass mark: 40%

Past papers and exam reports

Software development module

  • Two hour ‘closed book’
  • Pass mark: 40%

Past papers and exam reports

"Studying for BCS qualifications was the wisest decision I made - coupled with excellent teaching support, I was able to achieve the highest accolades."

Mohomed Nillar, PGD in IT graduate, Sri Lanka

What's next?

Take your IT skills further by progressing to the BCS Diploma in IT.

Diploma in IT

  • You're eligible to sit the Diploma in IT once you've achieved your Certificate level
  • Select your Diploma modules to suit your chosen career path

Read more about the Diploma in IT