Student Info

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IOB offers a range of relevant, UCD accredited and portable qualifications to help you upskill and advance your career. Our part-time programmes are designed with you in mind. We understand that most professional students lead busy lives, balancing work, study and life commitments. Our online learning model, is flexible and accessible, allowing you to progress at a pace that works for you.

There is a wide range of information that will be useful to you as a student on one of our programmes.  This information relates to the key academic activities that students are involved in, from initial application and registration, to continuous assessment and exam as well as the main policies and regulations that govern our programmes.

Our professional education framework represents a flexible education pathway that provides learning and development opportunities wherever you are in your career. The steps outlined below details one path up through the framework, but you can access the framework at any step to take specialist qualifications, depending on your career and learning need.

View the full Professional Education Framework -->

Key Dates

  • IOB is offering six exam sittings per year for APA and QFA modules, providing greater flexibility to attain the Professional Certificate in Financial Advice (APA), or the Professional Diploma in Financial Advice (QFA). *Please note that some of these modules do not run in all intakes. For further information, please click on the 'Key Dates for extra sitting APA QFA modules' above.

  • Please click on 'Level 7 MCC key dates 2025/2026' to view the closing dates for the following MCC programmes - Professional Certificate in Consumer Credit (APA), Professional Certificate in Stockbroking (APA), Professional Certificate in Compliance and the Professional Diploma in Compliance (LCI).

Student admission and registration information

Assessment

General Policies and Documents

Quality Assurance Policy

Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy

Equality, Diversion and Inclusion Policy

What are the minimum device requirements to take my exam with Proctorio?

A laptop or computer running Windows 7+, macOS 10.11+, Ubuntu 18.04+ or Chrome 58+

  • A working webcam - 320x240 VGA resolution (minimum) internal or external for all systems

  • Microphone - any Microphone, either internal or external for all systems

  • Proctorio Browser Extension - you will be required to download and install this extension in advance of your exam. . Download the extension here.

  • Intel Pentium or better (Mac users will require an Intel processor, Chrome OS users will require Intel Pentium or Arm)

  • 250MB free disk space

  • 2GB Free RAM

  • 0.092-0.189 Mbps upload speed

  • Microsoft word – accepted file types are: Word 2007 document. docx or Word document .doc

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How do I install the Proctorio extension?

You can get the Proctorio extension at https://getproctorio.com/. This process only needs to be done once. The extension will update automatically.

Who do I contact if I’m having a problem on the day of my Proctorio exam?

For Technical Support: Contact [email protected] or Support | Proctorio .

To advise IOB of technical issues contact IOB via the chat located on our website, or email [email protected] (note in subject line Proctorio) or phone 01 611 6500.

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Do I lose exam time during the pre-check process of my Proctorio exam?

No. The exam timer does not start until after the pre-checks are complete.

Once I install Proctorio, is it always on?

No, Proctorio only runs during an exam and during exam review. Test takers can tell when Proctorio is “on” because the Proctorio extension shield icon will turn green. Since Proctorio is a browser extension, it can be uninstalled or disabled immediately after an exam is submitted and reinstalled or enabled in time for the next exam.

Does Proctorio have access to my web history?

No, Proctorio does not have access to your browser history.

How will I access my exam paper for my Proctorio exam ?

This will be through the module page in IOB Learn. Further instructions will follow at a later stage.

Has the format of the written paper changed for my Proctorio?

The exam will be closed book, in the same exam format as usual and remotely invigilated.

When does Proctorio start and stop recording?

Proctorio only records during an exam and if the video/audio/screen recording settings are enabled by the exam administrator. Recording starts right as you enter the exam, after the diagnostics pre-check and exam agreement have been completed. Recording stops as soon as the test takers submits or closes the exam.

Who is watching me when I am using Proctorio?

Only approved representatives at IOB have access to your audio, video, and screen recordings.

Does Proctorio use face recognition?

No, Proctorio only uses face detection and gaze detection which cannot uniquely identify an individual’s face.

Is Proctorio Spyware?

No. Proctorio makes the test fully aware of what permissions are required to enter a Proctorio exam. Proctorio software runs as a browser extension, meaning its access to the information on a test takers personal computer is limited and it cannot access personal files or change system settings.

I wear glasses and the webcam isn’t picking up my image?

You may be experiencing glare from the reflection with the lenses. To fix this, try adjusting the angle of your head a bit. You can also turn down the brightness on your computer monitor. You may remove your glasses in order to pass the pre-check and put them back on once the exam begins.

I don’t want my exam administrator to see my room? What should I do?

We recommend that test takers take their exams in a neutral area. If possible, some options are your kitchen table, your living room, or public area like a library.

What happens if I move to check the time during my Proctorio exam?

Subtle movements, such as the ones mentioned, are not likely to be flagged.

What is the difference between the application and registration closing date?

The application date is the date by which you should submit your online application for consideration. You only apply for a programme once, at the start of your programme of study. The registration date is the date by which you need to register for the individual modules you wish to take in that trimester.

What browsers can I use for my exam?

Supported browsers are Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Opera or Brave

When will I receive my textbook?

You will normally receive your textbook, (IoB published or the Principles and Practice of Banking textbook) within two weeks of the trimester start date or within 10 working days of your registration being processed.

We will send textbooks to your work address unless you have advised us that we should send them to your home address. IOB does not take responsibility for textbooks which have been misplaced or the non-receipt of textbooks which have been dispatched to home addresses. If you change your address after registering, you will need to locate the textbook at the address you provided at the time of registration.

It is your responsibility to make sure that you have the most up-to-date materials for your studies, including an up-to-date textbook. You can find a copy of the most up-to-date IoB published textbook on My Institute.

Re-registration students can purchase an up-to-date textbook if required, as this is not automatically re-issued.

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What do I need to do if I am not fluent in English or if English Language is not my first Language?

IOB programmes are delivered through English and students are expected to be proficient in English. This proficiency is typically evidenced by use in the daily working environment, through passing English as a subject in the Irish Leaving Certificate Examination/equivalent, by achieving the minimum standard in a recognised English language test or through other documented verifiable means. This minimum standard is an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 6.5 (minimum 6.0 in each band in the academic version) or equivalent. If English is not your first language, you will need to submit evidence of achieving this standard, or equivalent. We will monitor students where English is not their first language and request evidence of English language standard if and where appropriate.

What do I need to provide if I am applying for entry based on external study at another higher level institution?

You will need to supply a copy of your transcript as evidence of your external study. A transcript lists individual modules completed and the corresponding module results attained as part of your programme of study and is available from the relevant education institution. Note, a transcript is not the same as a parchment which is an overall qualification. You should forward an original transcript of results after registration which we will return to you. We require sight of the original transcript as soon as possible. All transcripts and academic records must be the original official documents and should be accompanied by an English translation where appropriate. more >

What do I need to provide if I am applying for entry onto a programme based on relevant professional experience?

You will need to provide an up to date C.V. and complete the non-standard admissions application form which is available by emailing [email protected]. Your application will be reviewed by the IoB subcommittee to assess if you meet the relevant entry requirements and we will be in touch once your application has been reviewed. The subcommittee meets every two weeks before a closing date, so please allow plenty of time before the closing date for your application to be considered.more >

What do I need to do if can’t register to a chosen module/programme online?

If you are experiencing difficulty in registering online, please contact customer service on 01 6116500 or email [email protected]. Possible reasons for this could include; - You are already registered to another programme - You have previously completed the module/programme - The module has a prerequisite module (i.e. a module that must be passed before you can register for the second module).more >

What IOB programmes are eligible for IFS Skillnet Funding?

IOB , in association with IFS Skillnet, offer funding for a number of its programmes. This means that the company you work for can apply for funding their employees in these programmes. Please note that these programmes cannot be applied for online and you will need to send in a hard copy registration form to register for an IFS Skillnet programme.

A list of all programmes eligible for funding can be found on our website here.

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How do I check if my employer is an IFS Skillnet member?

The list of employers is available on the Skillnet website

How do I apply for an IFS Skillnet programme?

If you are registering to an IFS Skillnet programme you will need to complete a hard copy registration form and submit all relevant supporting documentation for your programme (i.e. transcripts of results if required, C.V.) and other documentation required by IFS Skillnet: trainee profile sheet, payment sheet, and letter of support from employer if required. You will need to submit all of the required documentation together, in advance of the application closing date to ensure your application can be reviewed/progressed promptly and to ensure your application is in order, and that you are registered in time for your chosen trimester. Your employer needs to be a member of IFS Skillnet to avail of funding. The list of employers is available on the Skillnet website. If your company wishes to apply for this funding, they should contact IFS Skillnet directly.more >

How can I make payment if I am applying for a programme with IFS Skillnet funding?

The payment methods are set out on the registration form for your chosen IFS Skillnet funded programme.

Will I receive a UCD Student card?

Students completing level 8 and 9 programmes are eligible to apply for a UCD student card. Students will receive an email during their studies outlining how to apply for a student card. Student card queries can be sent to [email protected]

IOB Graduation 2026

If you received an award in the 2024/25 Academic year, your graduation date is Saturday, February 14 2026 in The O’Reilly Hall, UCD.

Number of Guests

You can bring no more than two guests to your Graduation Ceremony.

Due to the large number of graduates, and for health and safety reasons, additional guest tickets cannot be offered.

Children are counted as one of your two ticket allocation, but children under 2 years of age can sit on one of your guests' laps and will not count towards your ticket allocation.

Guest tickets will also be available via Eventbrite.

Tickets

The ticket for your Graduation will be available from Eventbrite and the link will be sent to you by email.

Additional Tickets

Due to the large number of graduates, and for health and safety reasons, additional guest tickets cannot be offered.

Those without tickets will not be admitted to O’Reilly Hall for the graduation ceremony.

Getting to the O’Reilly Hall, UCD.

Here are directions on how to get to UCD: Commuting - UCD Estate Services

Parking

A limited number of free parking spaces are reserved for IOB Graduation.

Vehicles should enter the UCD campus via the N11 entrance and follow the directions of the traffic stewards to avail of the free parking.

Please note that not all car parks on UCD campus are free of charge, so please follow the stewards’ instructions on the day.

Guests with additional needs.

If you or a guest has any additional needs, please contact us at [email protected] to let us know how we can make your day more comfortable.

The O'Reilly Hall is accessible by wheelchair

Academic Robes You must attend your graduation in the prescribed gowns and hoods as supplied by Phelan Conan, who will be in O’Reilly Hall on February 14 2026. Hiring Costs are as follows:

  • €45 for robes that are prebooked online

  • €50 for robes hired on the day

Your robes must be prebooked here: Phelanconan Ltd - Hire Graduation Gowns Online  The deadline for you to book your robe is Tuesday 10th February 2026.

Timings of the Ceremonies

If your award is being conferred in the morning (10am) ceremony, please arrive at O'Reilly Hall no later than 9am.

If your award is being conferred in the afternoon (1.30pm) ceremony, please arrive at O'Reilly Hall no later than 12.30pm.

Latecomers may not be admitted, and the start of the ceremony will not be delayed for latecomers.

How long does the Graduation Ceremony last?

The graduation ceremony usually lasts about an hour.

Post-Ceremony Reception

After your graduation ceremony you will leave the O’Reilly Hall and head to the O’Brien Science Centre with your guests for a post-ceremony reception.

Can I postpone my Graduation?

No, it is not possible to postpone your graduation or change the time of your ceremony.

Photographs

Lafayette Photography - a private studio photographic service - will be available in O’Brien Science Centre before and after your ceremony.

This is an optional service.

IOB Filming and Photography

Please note that filming/photography will take place at graduation for promotional and archival purposes.

The photographs and recordings may be included in IOB publications, in IOB promotional materials and on IOB’s website. If you would prefer not to be photographed, please let the photographer/videographer know on the day.

For more information on how we collect, hold and use your personal information, please refer to IOB’s Photography, Filming and Audio Data Protection Notice at https://iob.ie/files/media-privacy-notice

What happens if I cannot attend my Graduation?

If you cannot attend your graduation, your award will be conferred in absentia and your parchment will be posted to the postal address you provided at registration.

Your parchment will be posted to you in April 2026.

If your address has changed, you must update your contact details on IOB Learn.

If you do not update your details in advance of April 2026, your parchment will be posted to your original address.

Registered Number: 197171

Registered Charitable Organisation Charity Registration Number: 20026950 CHY Number: 10530

The Institute of Bankers in Ireland (a company limited by guarantee) trading as IOB

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