NEBOSH IGC Course Details 2026: Syllabus, Duration, Eligibility, Fees & Exams
Understanding the NEBOSH IGC course details is an important first step for anyone planning to build a career in occupational health and safety. The NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety provides knowledge and practical skills for identifying workplace hazards, managing risks and improving health and safety performance.
The qualification is suitable for aspiring safety professionals, engineers, supervisors, managers and employees responsible for workplace health and safety.
The NEBOSH IGC course has been updated for 2026, introducing revised assessment arrangements, updated unit names and changes to the practical risk assessment marking process.
This comprehensive guide explains the latest NEBOSH IGC syllabus, study duration, eligibility requirements, examination pattern, passing marks, course fees and qualification benefits based on official NEBOSH guidance.
What Is the NEBOSH IGC Course?
The NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety is an internationally recognised qualification awarded by the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), a UK-based awarding organisation.
The qualification is designed to develop essential knowledge of workplace health and safety, including hazard identification, risk management, organisational responsibilities and practical risk assessment.
It helps learners understand how workplace activities can affect health and safety and how suitable control measures can reduce risks.
The qualification is relevant to several industries, including:
Construction and infrastructure.
Oil, gas and energy.
Manufacturing and engineering.
Logistics and warehousing.
Healthcare and facilities management.
Transportation and other industrial workplaces.
The NEBOSH IGC can support career development and provide a foundation for further occupational health and safety qualifications.
NEBOSH IGC Course Details 2026
| Course feature | Updated information |
|---|---|
| Full qualification | NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety |
| Awarding organisation | NEBOSH, United Kingdom |
| Current specification | 2025 specification, introduced in 2026 |
| Qualification level | SCQF Level 6, comparable to RQF Level 3 |
| Units | GIC1 and GIC2 |
| GIC1 | Management of Health and Safety |
| GIC2 | Risk Assessment |
| Total notional learning hours | Approximately 112 hours |
| GIC1 assessment | Scenario-based open-book examination |
| GIC2 assessment | Practical workplace risk assessment |
| GIC1 provisional pass mark | 45% |
| GIC2 pass mark | 60% |
| Formal entry requirements | None |
| Recommended English level | IELTS 6.0 equivalent or higher |
| Qualification completion period | Five years from the first successfully passed unit |
| Training options | Learning Partner-dependent, including taught and distance-learning formats |
The information above reflects the revised qualification. Training schedules, assessment dates and available learning modes should be confirmed with an accredited NEBOSH Learning Partner.
What Changed in the NEBOSH IGC Syllabus in 2026?
NEBOSH regularly reviews its qualifications to ensure that learning outcomes and assessment methods remain relevant to workplace health and safety practices.
The updated NEBOSH International General Certificate syllabus was introduced for teaching on 2 February 2026, with revised assessments beginning on 4 March 2026.
The main changes include:
1. Updated unit names
The previous IG1 and IG2 units have been renamed GIC1 and GIC2 under the revised specification.
2. Revised practical assessment submission
GIC2 practical assessments are submitted through the NEBOSH online assessment platform.
3. Updated GIC2 marking
The practical assessment now uses a points-based marking system rather than the previous met/not-met approach.
4. GIC2 passing standard
The revised practical assessment has a pass mark of 60%.
5. Combined results arrangements
Results for both units are issued together, generally 60 working days after the GIC1 assessment.
The previous 2018 specification had its final assessment opportunities in August 2026. Learners should follow the current GIC1 and GIC2 requirements unless NEBOSH has specifically confirmed an applicable transitional arrangement.
NEBOSH IGC Syllabus 2026: GIC1 and GIC2 Explained
The current NEBOSH IGC syllabus consists of two units that assess theoretical understanding and practical application.
Unit GIC1: Management of Health and Safety
GIC1 focuses on the fundamental principles of occupational health and safety management.
It covers four main syllabus elements.
Element 1: Why We Should Manage Workplace Health and Safety
Learners explore the moral, legal and financial reasons for managing workplace health and safety, including the consequences of poor safety performance.
Element 2: How Health and Safety Management Systems Work and What They Look Like
This element introduces the principles of health and safety management systems and the importance of planning, implementation and continual improvement.
Element 3: Managing Risk – Understanding People and Processes
Learners develop knowledge of risk assessment, human factors, organisational arrangements and practical approaches to managing workplace risks.
Element 4: Health and Safety Monitoring and Measuring
This element focuses on monitoring performance, reviewing arrangements, investigating incidents and identifying opportunities for improvement.
Unit GIC2: Risk Assessment
GIC2 focuses on workplace hazards, appropriate controls and practical risk assessment.
The unit covers seven main elements.
Element 5: Physical and Psychological Health
Understanding workplace health hazards, including occupational health risks, stress, violence and other factors that may affect workers.
Element 6: Musculoskeletal Health
Identifying and controlling risks associated with manual handling, repetitive activities, ergonomics and workplace movement.
Element 7: Chemical and Biological Agents
Understanding exposure to hazardous substances and biological agents, including appropriate preventive and protective measures.
Element 8: General Workplace Issues
Recognising risks associated with workplace conditions, welfare arrangements, working at height, confined spaces and other common activities.
Element 9: Work Equipment
Understanding the hazards associated with machinery, equipment and work processes and the importance of suitable safeguards.
Element 10: Fire
Learning about fire hazards, prevention, protection, emergency procedures and fire risk control.
Element 11: Electricity
Understanding electrical hazards and suitable control measures to prevent electric shock, burns and other electrical incidents.
The practical GIC2 assessment requires learners to apply relevant knowledge to a workplace risk assessment.
NEBOSH IGC Course Duration and Study Hours
The revised qualification has approximately 112 notional learning hours, including taught learning, private study and assessment time.
Official learning-hour breakdown
| Unit | Taught hours | Self-study | Assessment | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GIC1 | 24 | 20 | 5 | 49 |
| GIC2 | 39 | 20 | 4 | 63 |
| Total | 63 | 40 | 9 | 112 |
These are qualification study-hour estimates, not a guarantee that every training provider will deliver the course over the same number of calendar days.
NEBOSH indicates that a full-time block-release programme may take approximately nine and a half days, while a part-time day-release programme may be spread over approximately ten weeks.
The actual training schedule depends on the Learning Partner, mode of delivery, class timetable and assessment arrangements.
Learners should also allow sufficient time for independent revision, practical preparation and assessment completion.
NEBOSH IGC Eligibility and Entry Requirements
One of the advantages of the NEBOSH International General Certificate is its accessibility to people from different educational and professional backgrounds.
Academic qualifications
There are no formal academic entry requirements.
Fresh graduates, working professionals and individuals considering a career change may study the qualification.
Work experience
Previous occupational health and safety experience is not a formal entry requirement.
However, familiarity with workplace activities can help learners understand the practical examples and risk assessment requirements.
English-language proficiency
NEBOSH recommends an English-language standard equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or higher.
Learners need to understand the syllabus, interpret workplace scenarios and communicate their knowledge clearly in assessments.
NEBOSH IGC Course Duration and Study Hours
The revised qualification has approximately 112 notional learning hours, including taught learning, private study and assessment time.
Official learning-hour breakdown
| Unit | Taught hours | Self-study | Assessment | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GIC1 | 24 | 20 | 5 | 49 |
| GIC2 | 39 | 20 | 4 | 63 |
| Total | 63 | 40 | 9 | 112 |
These are qualification study-hour estimates, not a guarantee that every training provider will deliver the course over the same number of calendar days.
NEBOSH indicates that a full-time block-release programme may take approximately nine and a half days, while a part-time day-release programme may be spread over approximately ten weeks.
The actual training schedule depends on the Learning Partner, mode of delivery, class timetable and assessment arrangements.
Learners should also allow sufficient time for independent revision, practical preparation and assessment completion.
NEBOSH IGC Eligibility and Entry Requirements
One of the advantages of the NEBOSH International General Certificate is its accessibility to people from different educational and professional backgrounds.
Academic qualifications
There are no formal academic entry requirements.
Fresh graduates, working professionals and individuals considering a career change may study the qualification.
Work experience
Previous occupational health and safety experience is not a formal entry requirement.
However, familiarity with workplace activities can help learners understand the practical examples and risk assessment requirements.
English-language proficiency
NEBOSH recommends an English-language standard equivalent to IELTS 6.0 or higher.
Learners need to understand the syllabus, interpret workplace scenarios and communicate their knowledge clearly in assessments.
Is NEBOSH IGC suitable for beginners?
Yes. Beginners can study the qualification, provided they are prepared to learn the required health and safety concepts and complete the assessments.
The qualification can help learners build foundational knowledge before progressing to more specialised or advanced safety qualifications.
NEBOSH IGC Exam Pattern 2026
The revised NEBOSH IGC examination structure includes two separate assessments.
GIC1 Open-Book Examination
GIC1 is a scenario-based open-book examination.
Learners receive a workplace scenario and complete tasks that assess their ability to apply health and safety knowledge.
The examination provides a 24-hour window for completion and submission. This does not mean learners are expected to write continuously for 24 hours.
The qualification guide estimates approximately five hours of assessment effort for GIC1.
The assessment process also includes a closing interview to verify the learner’s understanding and the authenticity of the submitted work.
GIC2 Practical Risk Assessment
GIC2 requires learners to complete a workplace risk assessment and develop an action plan.
The assessment involves identifying hazards, evaluating risks, considering existing controls and recommending improvements.
Under the revised arrangements, learners submit their practical assessment through the NEBOSH online assessment platform.
The submission deadline is normally ten working days after the GIC1 assessment, in accordance with the published assessment schedule.
Learners should carefully follow the official GIC2 guidance and use the required submission format.
NEBOSH IGC Passing Marks and Grading System
To achieve the NEBOSH International General Certificate, learners must pass both GIC1 and GIC2.
GIC1 grading
| Marks | Result |
|---|---|
| 75 and above | Distinction |
| 65–74 | Credit |
| 45–64 | Pass |
| 0–44 | Refer |
The GIC1 pass mark is provisional and may be adjusted through NEBOSH’s standard-setting processes.
GIC2 grading
The revised GIC2 practical assessment has a pass mark of 60%.
The overall qualification grade is based on GIC1, but learners must pass GIC2 to receive the complete qualification.
NEBOSH IGC Exam Dates and Results 2026
NEBOSH publishes examination and results dates on its official qualification website.
Examples of remaining published GIC1 assessment dates in 2026 include:
| GIC1 assessment date | Results due |
|---|---|
| 4 November 2026 | 5 February 2027 |
| 2 December 2026 | 5 March 2027 |
The related GIC2 submission deadlines are 18 November 2026 and 16 December 2026 respectively.
Assessment language availability may differ between sittings. The published deadlines use UK time, so learners in India and other countries must account for the time-zone difference.
The final result date and submission requirements should always be checked against the learner’s official assessment registration confirmation.
NEBOSH IGC Course Fees in India
NEBOSH IGC course fees vary depending on the Learning Partner, training format and included services.
A course fee may cover some or all of the following:
Trainer-led classes.
Learning materials.
NEBOSH assessment registration.
Examination fees.
Assessment preparation.
Tutor guidance.
Additional administrative services.
Before enrolling, learners should request a complete breakdown of the fee.
M2Y Global Academy provides virtual live NEBOSH IGC training for learners in India. Contact the academy for the latest batch details, current fees and inclusions.
NEBOSH IGC Certificate Validity and Qualification Completion
The NEBOSH International General Certificate is an awarded qualification rather than a training attendance certificate.
Learners must successfully complete both units to receive the qualification.
NEBOSH allows learners five years to complete the qualification, starting from the declaration date of their first successfully passed unit.
This five-year rule concerns the period allowed to combine successful unit results. It should not be confused with the validity of an already awarded certificate.
The qualification itself does not have a routine expiry date. However, professionals should continue developing their knowledge because workplace practices, standards and legislation change over time.
Benefits of Completing the NEBOSH IGC Course
The NEBOSH IGC can support learners who want to develop professional knowledge in occupational health and safety.
Develop practical safety knowledge
Learn how to recognise hazards, assess risks and recommend suitable control measures.
Strengthen workplace responsibilities
Develop an understanding of health and safety management principles that can be applied to different workplaces.
Support career development
The qualification may be relevant to Safety Officer, HSE Coordinator, Safety Supervisor and other safety-related positions, depending on employer requirements.
Prepare for further qualifications
The NEBOSH IGC can provide a foundation for further professional study, including advanced occupational health and safety qualifications.
Develop internationally relevant knowledge
The qualification addresses principles that are relevant across a wide range of industries and international working environments.
Completing the NEBOSH IGC does not guarantee employment, promotion or a specific salary.
NEBOSH IGC Training at M2Y Global Academy
M2Y Global Academy provides virtual live NEBOSH IGC training to help learners understand the current qualification requirements and prepare for the assessments.
Our trainer-led approach focuses on explaining health and safety concepts, discussing workplace examples and guiding learners through the syllabus.
Prospective learners can enquire about:
Current training batches.
Virtual live class schedules.
GIC1 and GIC2 assessment preparation.
Course materials and tutor support.
Training and assessment fees.
Registration and enrolment procedures.
To explore available training options, visit our NEBOSH IGC Training pillar page.
Frequently Asked Questions
The revised qualification has approximately 112 notional learning hours. The calendar duration depends on the Learning Partner's training schedule and the learner's study arrangements.
GIC1 covers the management of health and safety and is assessed through a scenario-based open-book examination. GIC2 assesses practical workplace risk assessment skills.
The provisional GIC1 pass mark is 45%. The revised GIC2 practical assessment has a pass mark of 60%. Learners must pass both units.
Yes. There are no formal academic entry requirements, making the qualification accessible to beginners as well as working professionals.
No formal work experience is required for entry. However, practical workplace knowledge can help learners understand risk assessment activities.
Under the revised arrangements, both unit results are normally issued together 60 working days after the GIC1 assessment. Check the official results date for your sitting.
No. NEBOSH IGC is a vocationally related health and safety qualification. It is credit rated at SCQF Level 6, comparable to RQF Level 3, and is not equivalent to a university degree.
The awarded qualification does not have a routine expiry date. However, learners have a five-year period to complete the required units.
IG1 and IG2 belong to the previous 2018 specification. GIC1 and GIC2 are the units used under the revised 2025 specification implemented in 2026.
Explore NEBOSH IGC Training with M2Y Global Academy
Understanding the latest NEBOSH IGC course details can help you select an appropriate training programme and prepare for the qualification with realistic expectations.
The revised syllabus combines health and safety management knowledge with practical workplace risk assessment skills, making it relevant to learners interested in occupational health and safety.
M2Y Global Academy provides virtual live training for learners who want guidance on the qualification and its assessment requirements.
Ready to begin?
Explore NEBOSH IGC Training at M2Y Global Academy or contact our team to enquire about the next available batch, fees and registration process.
