Have a Query? Please read the following list of answers to frequently asked questions. This should address yours. However, if you still need some clarification, please feel free to get in touch with us. Br Azad Ali would be most happy to answer them. He may be reached at azad@iiibf.org

1. Where can I get all relevant information about your programs and how do I apply for the program?

We hope you have visited the IIIBF site at http://www.iiibf.org where you may create a free login and explore the online learning environment. You may submit your application online here.

2. Are your programs provided via distance learning or attendance is required?

The CeIB/CeIIA/CeIIP is an online distance education program administered entirely through the internet. Personal contact components are also available depending upon the location. Such personal contact facility is provided at selected locations but only as an additional option. This means that attendance is not compulsory and a student may complete the entire study program in the distance education mode through the internet.

3. Where is this certification from?

The certification and programs are administered by the International Institute of Islamic Business & Finance (IIIBF). IIIBF is fully owned by IBF NET, a company registered in India with regional representation in Sri Lanka, UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. While IIIBF currently has primarily a virtual environment, its physical campus with state-of-the-art facilities is coming up at Chennai (Madras) in South India.

4. Is this certification recognized by any world standard?

We have been the pioneers in offering professional certification programs catering to the Islamic financial services industry. We are NOT accredited by any external agency and believe in seeking recognition from the market and the industry. An instance of this has been the 2007 Global Recognition Award to IBF NET by the International Islamic Finance Forum: a global think tank for the industry. Considering the nature of our programs, we may be seeking validation from a few apex bodies in the field of Islamic Education.

5. How long is the duration of the program?

The duration of the program essentially depends on your pace of study. It should take a year to complete if you opt for four units per term (we have three terms per year and there are twelve units to be completed successfully for the award). On average, it should take about a year and half.

6. What are the fees?

The units are priced at US$100 per credit. The cost of twelve units amounts to US$1200.00. Add US$100.00 towards registration. The total cost therefore, is US$1300.00. You pay as you progress through the terms. Payment through credit card is possible on site. For details click here. For students from India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and a host of other countries IIIBF offers a special economy package. Please contact the regional representative for details.

7. I tried to download the application or apply on line but I think there is a problem with link. What should I do now?

We are sorry for any temporary technical problem at our site. You are requested to try again. Should the problem persist however, you may send the following details: (1) Name, (2) Educational Qualification, (3) Address, (4) E-Mail, (5) Tel/Fax No. (6) Program Applied for (7) Units to enroll, to admin@iiibf.org to effect a registration.

8. What is the time gap between application and commencement of studies?

You may commence as soon as you complete your admission formalities including payment of fees. We follow a rolling semester system and each student may follow his/her own schedule. In order to facilitate group study however, it may be better idea to follow the calendar.

9. Is the demo module part of the program? Am I to pay for accessing this module?

No. The demo module is for demonstration purpose only. This is free and is aimed to provide you with a feel of online learning environment (including taking online quizzes)..

10. How many credit hours do I have to complete for each of the professional certification programs. How many credit hours do I have to complete if I want to complete more than one program?

You need to complete 12 credit hours for CeIB/CeIIP/CeIIA. Level I is common for all three programs. If you are already a CeIB/CeIIP/CeIIA and want to opt for another, then you need to complete at least three more electives in Level II. You can pursue more that one certification programs at the same tine.

11. I live in country X. Can I have an online chat with the Program Director for some course-related clarifications?

Should you need to have an online chat with one of us, you are welcome. Please let us know a convenient time, so that we may request our Academic Counselor to make himself available. You would of course, need a yahoo account to be able to use yahoo chat. If you have one, please let us have the e-mail account.

12. I want a hardcopy of the material. So what is my total fees?

It would be US$100 plus US$40, i.e. US$140 per credit. Please note that we only provide hardcopy of the "core study material" and NOT the entire package of reading resources. You may pay only US$100.00 and then download and print ALL the material at your end. Needless to say, we do not recommend this option unless there is a pressing need for the same.

13. I doubt if my bank could send the fees before deadline. So what if payment is delayed few days after this day?

You can try the Credit Card option at our site http://www.iiibf.org/fee.html. Or you may even wire the money. On receiving a confirmation from you, we would open the program to you.

14. I want to know if the IBF Net or IIIBF has a reputation over the world or not?

Well, if you browse through the IBF NET site at http://islamic-finance.net you would find enough news and information about the international reputation of IBF NET. Look for the media page at http://islamic-finance.net/media.html

15. Do you offer financial awards to needy students? What is the procedure for getting financial awards?

Please note that we offer several financial awards of up to 50% of fees to students based on an individual and independent appraisal. We would require you to prepare a note providing justification for the award and send to us at least one month before the enrolment closes.

18. I have undergone a training course/ degree/ diploma program in Islamic banking and finance from Institution X. Am I eligible for an award CeIB/ CeIIP/ CeIIA from IIIBF based on my prior qualification?

Yes. This is possible but must be preceded by an assessment of the courses undergone by you, the competencies covered etc. Please refer to the CIBFP page for details.

19. I am a professional working for the Islamic financial services industry for long years. Am I eligible for an award CeIB/ CeIIP/ CeIIA from IIIBF based on my accumulate experience and exposure?

Yes. This is possible but must be preceded by an assessment of your complete profile as an Islamic finance professional. Please refer to the CIBFP page for details.