IFE vocational qualifications are recognised by employers throughout the UK and internationally. They are recognised and regulated by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) and the Welsh Government.

The IFE is the only regulated Awarding Organisation in the UK that specialises entirely in the fire sector. Our assessment materials are developed and quality assured by sector experts who bring extensive experience and up to date knowledge to the assessment process.

Each year the IFE receives over 6,000 exam entries from candidates in more than 20 different countries and interest in IFE qualifications continues to grow significantly each year.  You do not need to be a member of the IFE to enter the exams.

The IFE’s delivery processes comply with best practice and meet national regulatory standards. Candidates entering for IFE qualifications can be confident that:

• They are accessing a valued qualification recognised nationally and internationally
• They will receive a professional and robust assessment by industry experts
• Achievement will provide them with a platform for further study and professional development

IFE Qualifications

The IFE offers nine qualifications, 6 of which are available in South Africa.  Information about each qualification is provided on this page.  Please scroll down the page to find specific qualifications and unit information together with relevant links.  The qualifications available are:

IFE Level 2 Certificate in Fire Science, Operations and Safety – This qualification has been designed to recognise the critical knowledge and understanding required by those in fire-related roles. The qualification is assessed by a single three-hour examination. The examination contains 120 multiple-choice questions. Further details of the subject areas covered by the qualifications and also guidance on the level, recommended learning materials and the purpose of the qualification can be accessed by clicking on the name of the qualification.

IFE Level 3 Certificate in Fire Science, Operations, Fire Safety and Management – This qualification recognises the knowledge and understanding of those operating at, or preparing to operate at, the Crew Manager level. It is also appropriate for other fire specialists such as fire safety specialists. To achieve the qualification, candidates have to achieve each of the four mandatory units.  Each unit is assessed by an examination of one hour. Further details of the subject areas covered by the qualifications and also guidance on the level, recommended learning materials and the purpose of the qualification can be accessed by clicking on the name of the qualification.

IFE Level 3 Diploma in Fire Science and Fire Safety – Specialist qualifications are available at Level 3 in various subjects.   All qualifications are assessed by an examination of three hours.  Further details of the subject areas covered by the qualifications and also guidance on the level, recommended learning materials and the purpose of the qualification can be accessed by clicking on the name of the qualification.

IFE Level 4 Diploma in Fire Science and Fire Safety – Specialist qualifications are available at Level 4 in various subjects.   All qualifications are assessed by an examination of three hours.  Further details of the subject areas covered by the qualifications and also guidance on the level, recommended learning materials and the purpose of the qualification can be accessed by clicking on the name of the qualification.

IFE Level 2 Certificate in Passive Fire Protection– This qualification has been developed in partnership with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP).   The content and structure of the qualification have been established to cover the basic knowledge and understanding required by those working in the passive fire protection industry. Further details of the subject areas covered by the qualifications and also guidance on the level, recommended learning materials and the purpose of the qualification can be accessed by clicking on the name of the qualification.

IFE Level 3 Certificate in Passive Fire Protection – This qualification has been developed in partnership with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP).  It will be suitable for those who install or inspect passive fire protection measures. Further details of the subject areas covered by the qualifications and also guidance on the level, recommended learning materials and the purpose of the qualification can be accessed by clicking on the name of the qualification.