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Introduction
European Computer Driving License (ECDL), known as ICDL outside Europe, is the global standard in end-user computer skills, offering Candidates an internationally recognized certification that is supported by governments, computer societies, international organizations and commercial corporations globally.
ECDL/ICDL is the world’s largest end-user computer skills certification programme, with more than 7 million Candidates in 148 countries.
ECDL/ICDL raises the level of ICT and computer skills and allows Candidates to be more productive at home and at work. ECDL/ICDL also improves job prospects by providing an internationally recognized qualification. With a superior syllabus – uniquely validated to ensure that it is always relevant, up-to-date and meaningful – Candidates can be confident that ECDL/ICDL offers a certification of unrivalled quality.
ECDL/ICDL: What is it?
ECDL/ICDL is a test of practical skills and competencies and consists of seven separate modules covering computer theory and practice. To achieve an ECDL/ICDL certification, the Candidate must successfully pass a test in all seven modules.
ECDL/ICDL Module 1 is a theoretical test of computing knowledge at a general level and modules 2-7 are practical skills tests, as follows:
Module 1 - Concepts of Information Technology (IT)
Module 2 - Using the Computer and Managing Files
Module 3 - Word Processing
Module 4 - Spreadsheets
Module 5 - Database
Module 6 - Presentation
Module 7 - Information and Communication
Who is ECDL/ICDL for?
The ECDL/ICDL programme is for anyone who needs to demonstrate to an international standard that they are fully competent in the use of a personal computer and common computer applications and that they know the essential concepts of Information Technology.
Prospective Candidates should ideally have used computers and the common software applications before. Other programmes are also available for those with other requirements.
Alternatively, Candidates who have never used computers before may be interested in our EqualSkills programme.
How does it work?
When Candidates register to start the ECDL/ICDL certification process they purchase a Skills Card on which their progress through the seven tests is recorded. Skills Cards may be purchased from any approved Test Centre. Only an approved Test Centre can carry out testing and issue Skills Cards. Approved Test Centers are approved and monitored by ECDL/ICDL Licensee in each country.
How much training is required?
Usually the Candidate will undertake training on each Module of the syllabus prior to taking the test, although this is not compulsory. The amount of training will depend on the Candidate’s skills levels and the training provider chosen, but the average is around 17 hours of training per Module.
Some Candidates may feel competent enough in one area to forego training and move onto testing immediately, while others may require full training prior to testing. There are various ECDL Foundation approved and Licensee approved training materials (books and computer based training) available so that a Candidate can learn in their own time.
How long are the tests?
Each module is tested separately and each Test generally lasts 45 minutes. The seven tests can be attempted in any order and at any time.
ECDL/ICDL is unique in that it has been designed to be vendor-neutral. This means that ECDL/ICDL is not tied to one type of software. It therefore gives Candidates the flexibility and freedom to acquire core ICT skills and confidently apply them in any software environment they may be required to use.
What's Included?
- 14 Assessment vouchers
- 7 Exam voucher
- ICDL study materials
- On-site ICDL – Active Test administration
- The maximum student to instructor ratio is 12:1
