Diploma in Banking & Finance (DBF)

IBSL's entry-level professional qualification in banking and finance, covering financial systems, accounting, law, quantitative techniques and management.

IBSL
LevelCertificate

Overview

About this course

The Diploma in Banking & Finance (DBF) is the first level of the professional programme run by the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka at its Colombo 08 head office. It introduces the operating environment of banking and finance, including the core features of the business, the theories and concepts behind it, and its managerial and legal aspects. The programme runs over two semesters. Semester I covers the financial system, elements of banking and non-bank finance, and accounting and auditing. Semester II covers principles of law, quantitative techniques, principles of management and business communication. Students also choose one optional subject in each semester. IBSL describes the diploma as preparation for managerial-level operations and says it helps students improve their presentation skills. Teaching is offered in English, Sinhala and Tamil. IBSL states that completing the DBF covers the first year of a Degree in Banking and Finance that it plans to offer, subject to certain conditions. That degree is described as planned, so treat the pathway as unconfirmed until IBSL announces it.

Modules

11 modules
DBF 11014Survey of Financial Systems
DBF 11024Elements of Banking and Non-bank Finance
DBF 11034Accounting and Auditing
DBF 11043IT, Digital Banking and Settlements (optional)
DBF 11053Economics for Banking (optional)

Entry requirements

Academic Entry Requirement

Applicants need any one of the following.

Academic routes
  • GCE (A/L) in Sri Lanka in any stream, with three simple passes at one sitting, or an equivalent foreign examination.
  • A degree from a recognised university in Sri Lanka, or a foreign degree approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Professional and part qualifications
  • A professional qualification from a recognised professional institute in Sri Lanka or abroad.
  • A part qualification from a professional or academic institute in Sri Lanka or abroad at SLQF Level 2 or NVQ Level 4 equivalence, subject to Institute approval.
Mature entry

Employed in banking or finance, over 18 years of age, with at least eight years of experience, supported by an employer's recommendation letter and subject to Institute approval.

Other

Any other qualification approved by the Institute.

Facilities

Gallery

Key information

Level

certificate

Duration

Location

Colombo

Fees

On request

Upcoming intakes

No upcoming intakes listed
Verified informationOct 19, 2026

Related study areas

FinanceBusiness

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