ICS Ireland Branch - Professional Qualifying Examinations, Foundation & Advanced Diploma in Shipping Programs & Memberships in Ireland

Established in 1974, Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers Ireland (ICS Ireland) is a branch of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) in Ireland. Founded in 1911, ICS is the Professional Membership Body that sets the highest standards of professional service to the shipping industry through the provision of an internationally recognized education program.
The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers is the only internationally recognized professional body representing shipbrokers, ship managers and agents throughout the world. As a major provider of education and training, the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers Ireland facilitate lecturers, examination centers and exams for the ICS membership syllabus, providing the shipping industry with highly qualified professionals.
With 24 branches in key shipping areas, 4000 individuals and 120 company members, the Institute’s membership represents a commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards across the shipping industry. As part of a professional body, members can enjoy many benefits and a number of opportunities which enhance their career in the shipping industry.
As a major provider of education and training, the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers Ireland facilitate lecturers, examination centers and exams for the ICS membership syllabus, as well as organizing topical seminars, providing the shipping industry with highly qualified professionals.

Professional Programs
Professional Education Programs
- Professional Qualifying Examinations: The Professional Qualifying Examination (PQE) provides a thorough understanding of Shipping Business for the ambitious professional and all successful candidates should go on to be Members and eventually Fellows of the Institute. The qualifying examination is made up of 16 subjects split into 3 groups.
- Foundation Diploma in Shipping: The ICS Foundation Diploma is principally intended for those who are new to the industry. The Foundation Diploma (FD) comprises just two subjects - Introduction to Shipping and one of the Group 2 subjects of the students’ choice.
- Advanced Diploma: The Advanced Diploma has been designed as a stepping stone into full professional qualification and suits those who have some industry knowledge. Like the Foundation Diploma, the Advanced Diploma is a recognized and respected qualification. It involves taking the ICS benchmark paper Shipping Business plus one other subject from the list of Optional Papers (Group 2 or Group 3 subjects) of the ICS syllabus.
Memberships
- MICS - Member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers
- FICS - Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers
- Student - Person registered to take ICS examinations
- Retired - FICS or MICS with at least 25 consecutive years ICS membership
- Life - Branch nominee and Controlling Council approval
- Honorary Fellowship - By invitation of the Controlling Council
Last Updated: March 21, 2021