ICDL International Computer Driving Licence

Explore the ICDL course at Oxford Brookes University

ICDL provides international digital literacy qualifications sponsored by the British Computer Society. Students learn practical skills in word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. They also gain concrete skills in using computers and the Internet. The British Computer Society awards certificates to students after passing 7 exams. 

An ICDL certificate will improve career prospects and strengthen existing education programmes. Oxford Brookes University offers three certification routes by examination. A selection of 12 ICDL study units enable you to improve your digital knowledge and skills

Reasons to study ICDL

  • ICDL equips you with the skills to use a computer confidently and effectively, building on existing knowledge and motivating further learning.
  • Prove your IT skills which can help you find a job or progress your career.
  • Flexible learning - boost your skill set at any stage and at any age, and at your own pace.
  • It's what employers want. Employers need people who can contribute to achieving goals in the most efficient and productive way.

Learn about ICDL courses

Whether you are a beginner or an advanced IT user, ICDL offers training at 3 levels to meet your needs. Three qualifications are available, each of which combine units at different levels. The ICDL Traditional and ICDL Advanced courses consist of mandatory units. In contrast, the ICDL Advanced Single Study units enable you to select one or two units of choice. 

Study units are based on Office 365 and include:

  • Word processing
  • Spreadsheets
  • Presentations
  • Databases
  • IT Security
  • Computer essentials (Windows 11)
  • Online essentials (Internet)

The ICDL Course Guide describes ICDL qualifications and study units at Oxford Brookes. The guide also provides information on course fees.

The ICDL Study Guide provides information and advice on studying for ICDL certification. Learn how to access the online study units, make full use of the drop-in sessions, and get support from your tutor.

You should complete your ICDL course within 1 year (2 years for advanced level courses). If you need more time, you can apply for a 12 month extension, subject to BCS guidelines.

Apply for an ICDL Course

You can apply for an ICDL course in 4 simple steps. 

  1. Select your course. Ensure that you have read the ICDL Course Guide. Please book the optional ICDL Taster Session, if you have not already done so.
  2. Complete the online ICDL Course Application form. Provide line manager approval, if you are a member of the University. Provide Purchase Order details, if your employer is funding your course. Payment by credit or debit Visa card is otherwise accepted at the Oxford Brookes online shop.
  3. Pay the appropriate fee. The ICDL Course Guide describes payment methods, fees, and concessions. The standard course fee is £385. If you are making an online payment, select your preferred course. 
  4. After confirmation of payment, we will register you with the BCS. You will then receive joining instructions for your online studies. Read the ICDL Study Guide for information on ICDL policies.

ICDL Taster Sessions

Learn about ICDL courses, study units, and qualifications, by attending a Taster Session. Face to face sessions are held each month in the dedicated ICDL Exam Centre, on the Headington campus. Taster Sessions are for everyone - students, staff and the general public. Contact the ICDL Centre to attend a 45 minute Taster Session.