🌊 Membership Eligibility and Categories – The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS)

The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) stands as the global benchmark of professionalism in the maritime and shipping industry. Membership with the Institute not only validates one’s expertise and integrity but also signifies a commitment to excellence, ethics, and international standards in shipbroking and maritime commerce.

⚓ Membership Eligibility

Membership of the Institute (MICS) is attained by candidates who successfully pass the Professional Qualifying Examinations and satisfy the UK Controlling Council regarding their professional suitability.

Applicants for Fellowship (FICS) are drawn from among Members who:

• Hold a position of seniority in the industry, and
• Have been actively engaged in the business or profession of shipbroking for at least six years.

Upon promotion, Fellows are entitled to describe themselves as “Chartered Shipbrokers”, a globally respected title symbolizing the highest professional standard in shipbroking.

Membership in the Institute is internationally recognized as a hallmark of professionalism and competence in the global shipping community. With the largest network of qualified shipbrokers worldwide, ICS continues to uphold excellence across maritime trade, logistics, and related sectors.

Becoming a Member confirms a personal commitment to maintaining an internationally recognized standard of service and ethical conduct.

⚙️ Categories of Membership

The Institute offers several distinct categories of membership to accommodate professionals at various stages of their careers:

1. Member (MICS)

Membership is awarded to candidates who have:

• Passed the Professional Qualifying Examinations, and
• Accumulated four years of aggregated experience in the shipping industry,
  and have satisfied the Council’s requirements for admission.

2. Fellow (FICS)

Fellowship represents the highest professional grade.
Fellows are Members who have achieved senior status in the industry and are entitled to the prestigious title of “Chartered Shipbroker.”

3. Retired Member

A Fellow or Member who has retired from active shipping practice retains all the privileges of membership—except the right to vote or participate in the affairs of the Institute.
A reduced membership fee applies for this category.

4. Life Member

Reserved for retired individuals who have maintained 25 or more consecutive years of membership.
Applications for Life Membership are reviewed annually by the Controlling Council.

5. Affiliate Member

This category is open to:

• Holders of the Foundation Diploma who do not yet plan to register for the Professional Qualifying Examinations, or
• Individuals who have completed the examinations but lack the required work experience for full membership.

Affiliate Membership is limited to a maximum of five years.

6. Student Member

Student membership allows individuals registered with the Institute to:

• Apply for entry into ICS examinations,
• Request exemptions (considered on a case-by-case basis), and
• Participate in Institute and branch events, networking sessions, and professional development opportunities.

🌍 Why Become a Member?

Joining the Institute is more than a credential—it’s a career milestone. Members gain:

• Recognition as a qualified shipping professional,
• Access to a global network of maritime experts,
• Opportunities for professional growth through events and continued education, and
• A lifelong connection to the world’s leading shipbroking community.

Embark on your journey toward professional excellence.
Become part of a global legacy of maritime professionals—The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers.