Frequently asked questions
- 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 at an international level. The training provides an introduction to the basic principles of the ICA technical arbitration process.
- What is the Advanced Level course?
The Advanced Level course and examinations are the second stage in the qualification process. The training aims to increase the high standard of existing ICA Technical Arbitrators. It is more in-depth than Basic Level 1. There are three examinations, which can be taken in single modules or all together.
- Who is the training for?
The Basic Level 1 training is for ICA members and non-members who want to become an ICA Arbitrator or who want to learn more about the basic principles of the ICA technical arbitration process.
The Advanced Level training is for ICA Individual Members who have passed the Basic Level 1 examination and who want to improve and develop their arbitration knowledge and skills.
- I am not a member of the ICA, can I take the training?
For Basic Level 1, yes. The training is open to ICA members and non-members.
For the Advanced Level, no. The training is only available to ICA Individual Members.
To find out more about becoming a member please click here.
- If I complete the training, how can I become an ICA Arbitrator?
To be included on the ICA list of official Arbitrators and be eligible to sit on technical appeal committees and accept ICA arbitral appointments you must:
- successfully complete the Basic Level 1 course/exam
- be elected as an ICA Individual Member
- have at least five years' experience in the cotton trade (exceptions will be made depending on your level of experience and competency)
- And, from 1 April 2013, successfully complete Modules 1, 2 & 3 of the Advanced Level
- Do I need to pay a fee to take the course?
For Basic Level 1, the course material (available in English and Portuguese) is FREE and is available as a download from our website. To sit the exam, there is a cost equivalent to GBP £100 (+ VAT).
For the Advanced Level, up until 1 April 2012, we will only charge you an administration fee of GBP £75 (or the equivalent US$ rate). From 1 April 2012 the fees will increase to GBP £100 for Modules 1 & 2 (combined cost) and GBP £300 for Module 3.
- Where can I get a copy of the course material?
For Basic Level 1, the course material (available in English and Portuguese) 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 & Rules.
For the Advanced Level, the ICA Team will provide you with all the material. Simply contact us and we will send it directly to you.
- When can I take the exams?
You can take the exams at a range of locations to coincide with the ICA visit schedule. Or, if you prefer, we will try to arrange a location of your choice. Please contact us to discuss and/or to find out more.
- I want to attend one of the examinations, what should I do?
Simply contact us to confirm that you wish to attend an examination, specifying which module(s) you wish to take. We will then send you confirmation and further instructions.
- Will the ICA publish the examination results?
No - we will contact you directly to advise you of your result(s).
- Can I re-sit the examination(s) if I do not pass first time?
Yes. You can re-sit the examinations any number of times. The standard administration fee applies for each re-sit.
- What if I have more questions about the training?
Please do not hesitate to contact us and we will try to help.