Frequently asked questions

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1. What is the Basic Level (1) Course?
   The Basic Level (1) Course and Examination is the first of a two-stage qualification process intended to expand the number of suitably qualified ICA Technical Arbitrators on an international level.
   
   
2. Who needs to take the course?
   Anybody who wants to be included on the ICA list of official Arbitrators and be eligible to sit on technical appeal committees and accept ICA arbitral appointments.
   
   
3. I am not an ICA Arbitrator, can I take the course?
   Yes.  However, applicants should have at least five years' experience in the cotton trade (exception will be made depending on your level of experience and competency).  The course is open to ICA members and non-members. On successful completion of the course and exam, if you are not already a member of the ICA, you will need to be elected as an ICA Full or Associate Member.  To find out more about becoming a member please click here.
   
   
4. Do I need to pay a fee to take the course?
   Yes. The ICA will provide the course and examination at a cost of the equivalent of £100 GBP.
   
   
5. Where can I get a copy of the course?
   The course can be downloaded directly from the ICA website.  Please click here to download a copy.  You will also need a copy of the Arbitration Act 1996 and the ICA Bylaws and Rules. If you are unable to download the course or documents from the website, please contact us.
   
   
6. When can I take the examination?
   The examination will be held at international cotton conferences and seminars during the year.  More details can be found by visiting the events page of our website or by contacting us.  Alternatively, we may be able to arrange for you take the examination at a location of your choice.  Please contact us to find out more.
   
   
7. I want to attend one of the examinations, what should I do?
   Simply contact us to confirm that you will be attending the examination, specifying which examination you wish to attend.  We will then send you confirmation and further instructions.
   
   
8. Will the ICA publish the examination results?
   No - we will contact you directly to advise you of your result.
   
   
9. Can I re-sit the examination if I do not pass first time?
   Yes. You can re-sit the examination any number of times. The standard fee applies for each re-sit.