Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to the IFS Skillnet FAQ page. Here you will find answers to common questions about our training programmes, funding, application processes, and membership.

Your Website Account

• Q: What are the benefits of creating an account on the IFS Skillnet website?

A: Creating an account provides several benefits for managing your training. Once logged in, you can book and pay directly for courses, track all your past and present bookings, and see all your upcoming sessions in one place.

• Q: Can someone else book a course for me?

A: Yes. If your company's administrator or a memebr of the IFS Skillnet books a course on your behalf, it will appear on your login page, allowing you to track it alongside any bookings you have made yourself.

About Our Courses

• Q: What types of training programmes does IFS Skillnet offer?

A: We provide a wide range of specialised training programmes tailored for professionals in the financial services sector. Our portfolio covers areas such as regulatory compliance, risk management, digital transformation, sustainable finance, leadership, and much more. All courses are designed to address current industry needs and emerging skills gaps. 

• Q: Who are the courses designed for?

A: Our courses are primarily for private sector employees based in the Republic of Ireland who work within the financial services industry or in supporting professional services firms (e.g., IT, Legal, Accounting, Business Consulting).

• Q: Are your courses accredited or certified?

A: Many of our programmes are accredited by relevant professional bodies and lead to formal qualifications. We partner with leading educational institutions, such as IOB, to deliver industry-recognised certifications. Please check the individual course page for specific accreditation details.

• What is the delivery format for your courses? (e.g., online, in-person)

A: We offer flexible learning options to suit busy professionals, including fully online courses, in-person workshops, and blended learning formats (a mix of both). The delivery format is clearly stated on each course description page.

Booking & Application Process

• Q: How do I book a place on a course?

A: You can book your place directly through our website. Simply navigate to the course you are interested in and click the "Book Now" or 'Enquire Now' button. Please note that all bookings are provisional until payment is received and eligibility is verified.

• Q: What is the application process for courses delivered in partnership with IOB?

A: For programmes delivered with our strategic partner, IOB, the application process is managed in collaboration with the IOB team. We recommend reviewing the IFS Skillnet application checklist before you begin to ensure you have all the required information.

• Q: What are the administrative requirements for attendees?

A: As a condition of our government funding, all attendees are required to complete some mandatory documentation. This includes a Trainee Profile Form  before the course, and completing an Evaluation form after the course. This documentation is required by Skillnet Ireland to monitor, evaluate, and verify attendance for all funded training

• Q: What happens after I register for a course?

A: Once your booking is confirmed and payment is received, you will receive a confirmation email containing all the essential details, such as course dates, location or online access links (if applicable), and any pre-course materials (where applicable).

• Q: Can I book training for my entire team?

A: Yes. We specialise in providing training for teams and organisations. Please contact our team directly at info@ifsskillnet.ie or 01 605 1546 to discuss your specific needs, and we can arrange group bookings or even bespoke training sessions for your company.

Funding & Fees

• Q: How is IFS Skillnet training funded?

A: As a Skillnet Business Network, we are co-funded by Skillnet Ireland and our member companies. Skillnet Ireland is funded from the National Training Fund through the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation & Science. This allows us to offer high-quality training at a significantly subsidised rate.

• Q: Who is eligible for the subsidised (grant-aided) fee?

A: To be eligible for the subsidised fee, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Your company must be a member of IFS Skillnet (membership is free).
2. You must be employed or self-employed and working in the international financial services sector, or a company supporting the sector (e.g., law, accounting, IT, consultancy).
3. Your company/business must be registered in the Republic of Ireland.
4. You must be resident in the Republic of Ireland.
5. Unfortunately, private individuals not currently employed, charities, and non-commercial public sector organisations are not eligible for subsidised rates.

• Q: How much do the courses cost?

A: The subsidised fee for each course is listed on the individual course page. The price shown reflects the Skillnet subsidy.

• Q: How do I pay for a course?

A: Training event fees must be paid in full and in advance of the event commencing. Payment can be made by EFT or invoice. Some events may require immediate payment online at the time of booking.

Cancellation Policy

• Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: All cancellations must be sent in writing to info@ifsskillnet.ie.

1. More than 14 days before the course: You will receive a full refund (no cancellation fee).
2. Between 14 and 7 days before the course: You will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
3. Less than 7 days before the course: No refund is possible (100% fee applies).
4. Non-attendance on the day: No refund is possible (100% fee applies).
5. see cancellation policy here

• Q: Can I substitute a colleague if I can no longer attend?

A: Yes, member companies may substitute participants at any time before the course starts. Please notify us at info@ifsskillnet.ie as soon as possible so we can update the registration details and issue the certificate to the correct person.

• Q: What happens if IFS Skillnet cancels or postpones a course?

A: In the event of insufficient numbers or other exceptional circumstances, IFS Skillnet reserves the right to cancel or postpone a course. If this happens, you will be offered the choice of a full refund or a place on an alternative date.

Membership

• Q: How can my company become a member of IFS Skillnet?

A: Membership is free and open to any private sector companies (including sole traders) operating within the international financial service industry in Ireland, as well as companies providing professional services to those firms (e.g., IT, Legal, Accounting, Business Consulting). You can find more information on our "Membership" page or by contacting info@ifsskillnet.ie.

• Q: What are the benefits of my company becoming a member?

A: As a member, your company will:

1. Receive free membership.
2. Be eligible for the subsidised member rates for all our training and events.
3. Receive our free newsletter with upcoming courses and events.
4. Have the opportunity to tell us what training your company needs.
5. Reduce costs by availing of grant-aided training.
6. Network and learn best practices from industry peers.

• Q: I am an employee. Can I join?

A: Membership is held by the company, not the individual. However, as an employee, you can email info@ifsskillnet.ie to register for our newsletter and be kept informed of upcoming courses and events. To avail of the subsidised member rates, your company must be a member and must pay or reimburse you for you to attend the course.

Contact Us

• Q: I can't find the answer to my question. How can I contact you?

A: We are here to help! We also welcome feedback and suggestions for future training. You can reach the IFS Skillnet team by emailing info@ifsskillnet.ie, calling us at 01 605 1546, or by using the contact form on our website.