NEBOSH IGC (International General Certificate) is the most sought-after entry-level qualification for HSE professionals who want to work internationally. In 2026 the course consists of two parts: IG1 (management and theory, open-book exam) and IG2 (a practical risk assessment). Expect 3 to 4 months of study, 8–10 hours per week, and a total cost from around €3,500 all-in. In this guide we explain everything — no sales talk.
What is NEBOSH IGC?
NEBOSH stands for the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health. The International General Certificate (IGC) is its global entry-level qualification in occupational health and safety (HSE). It is comparable to national safety qualifications in many countries — but recognised internationally in more than 120 countries.
With NEBOSH IGC you can apply for HSE roles in ports, offshore, oil & gas, construction, logistics, energy and international projects. For professionals and expats based in Europe, it is especially valuable if you want to work across borders or win international contracting assignments in the major ports.
Want a shorter overview first? Read: What is NEBOSH IGC?
IG1 and IG2: how is the course structured?
NEBOSH IGC consists of two separate assessments. You only earn the full qualification once both parts are completed:
- IG1 — Management of health and safety: a theory exam on HSE management, legislation, risks and prevention. This is an open-book online exam in English. You may use your study material, but you need to reason quickly and independently.
- IG2 — Risk assessment: a practical assignment in which you carry out and document a workplace risk assessment. Not a classic exam, but an assessment of your professional approach.
More about IG2? See our guide to the NEBOSH IG2 risk assessment assignment or practise with 20 free IG1 practice questions.
NEBOSH IGC cost in 2026 — overview
Total cost depends on the provider, the study format, and whether exam fees are included. The table below gives a realistic picture for students in 2026:
| Item | Indication 2026 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Course all-in | €3,500 | At SafetyXAcademy Rotterdam: tuition, coaching, exam fees IG1 + IG2 |
| Separate exam fees (indication) | €200–€400 per unit | If you register separately; usually included in all-in packages |
| Study material | Included | Official NEBOSH material (English) via the provider |
| Resit | €150–€350 per attempt | Only relevant if you don't pass a unit |
| Time (opportunity cost) | 8–10 hours/week | 3–4 months alongside work; no extra euros, but worth factoring in |
Tip: always compare exactly what "all-in" covers. Some providers charge exam fees, resits or classroom days separately. Our NEBOSH IGC course in Rotterdam is €3,500 all-in for September 2026.
Duration: how long does NEBOSH IGC take?
Most students complete NEBOSH IGC in 3 to 4 months. It is a blended programme:
- Online modules — flexible, at your own pace, alongside your job
- Classroom days in Rotterdam — for in-depth explanation, exam coaching and peer learning
- Self-study — plan for an average of 8 to 10 hours per week (reading, practising, IG2 preparation)
You don't have to complete IG1 and IG2 at the same time, but most providers schedule them in a single cohort. Book your exams well ahead: popular exam windows can fill up.
The exam: English, open book, and how hard is it?
This is what many candidates find daunting. The facts:
- The study material and exams are in English. NEBOSH recommends roughly B2 level.
- IG1 is open book: you may use your book, but the questions test understanding — not literal look-up.
- IG2 is practical: you submit a risk assessment that meets NEBOSH criteria.
- A prior national qualification is not required. A basic safety certificate, technical background or HSE experience is often enough to start.
With clear teaching, exam coaching and practice material, IGC is achievable for motivated students. Test your level for free with our NEBOSH quiz (20 questions, all IG1 elements).
Want to know exactly how the current exam works? Read more on our NEBOSH course page.
Who is NEBOSH IGC for?
The course suits:
- HSE officers, safety professionals and prevention advisors who want to progress internationally
- Supervisors, team leaders and technicians (ports, offshore, construction, industry) taking on HSE responsibility
- Contractors who want to win higher day rates in ports
- Expats and international professionals who deliberately choose the globally recognised path
Less suitable if you only ever want to work within a single country's legal framework with no international ambition — then a national qualification can sometimes be a more direct fit. But as soon as ports, offshore or expat assignments come into view, IGC is often the better investment.
NEBOSH IGC vs national qualifications: which do you choose?
In short:
- National safety qualifications: strong within one country, deep local legislation, often higher entry cost and longer duration
- NEBOSH IGC: internationally recognised, shorter programme, English exam, ideal for ports/offshore/expat work
Many professionals eventually earn both, in the order that fits their career — a national qualification for the local market, and NEBOSH IGC to open the wider world.
Where to take NEBOSH IGC in Europe?
NEBOSH itself doesn't run classroom courses; you study through an accredited learning partner. There are online-only programmes and blended courses with physical classroom days.
SafetyXAcademy offers an English-taught NEBOSH IGC in Rotterdam (Veerhaven, Westplein 12):
- Max. 10 students per group
- Taught in English, exam in English
- €3,500 all-in
- Starts September 2026
International students and expats are welcome. More details on the course page.
Frequently asked questions about NEBOSH IGC
How much does NEBOSH IGC cost in 2026?
All-in from around €3,500 at SafetyXAcademy (tuition + exam fees). On top of that, plan for 8–10 hours of self-study per week; no hidden obligations beyond any resits.
How long does NEBOSH IGC take?
On average 3 to 4 months of blended study, followed by the IG1 exam and IG2 assignment. Compatible with full-time work.
Is the exam in English?
Yes. Study material, IG1 and IG2 are in English. Clear teaching helps, but you must be able to answer exam questions in English.
Do I need a prior qualification?
No. IGC is a standalone entry-level qualification. Many students have a basic safety certificate, work experience or a technical background.
Where is NEBOSH IGC recognised?
Internationally in 120+ countries. Especially relevant for ports (Rotterdam, Antwerp), offshore, industry and international projects.
Next step: starts September 2026
NEBOSH IGC is a serious investment in your HSE career — but one with measurable returns: international recognition, a stronger contracting position and access to assignments that stay closed without the qualification.
Join the waitlist for September 2026 →
Or first explore the course in detail, take the free practice test, or read about HSE jobs & contracting assignments after your qualification.
Last updated: 24 June 2026. Costs and start dates may change; always check the current course page for definitive prices.