NISM Series VIII


The National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM)

NISM operates under the guidelines of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and performs two key functions related to certification and examination.


Mandatory Certification Examinations

NISM conducts exams that are required for individuals working in securities market intermediaries. These exams ensure that persons—such as brokers, advisors, or other professionals—have the necessary knowledge and skills of the securities market.


Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Programs

NISM also offers programs designed to help these professionals stay updated with the latest knowledge and practices in the securities markets. These CPE programs are mandatory for maintaining their certification.


Certification Validity

When you receive a certification from NISM, it is valid for 3 years.

After the expiry date of your certificate, you need to re-validate it. You have two main options:


  1. Pass a Relevant NISM Certification Examination: You can take and pass the NISM exam before the expiry of your certification. It will consider you still knowledgeable and qualified according to current standards.

  2. CPE Program: Alternatively, you can attend and successfully complete a CPE program specified by NISM. This program must be completed within the 12 months before the expiry of your certificate.

Your certificate will be re-validated for another three years from the expiry date of the existing certificate once you complete the NISM exam or CPE program.

NISM

Syllabus Outline with Weights

Unit No.Unit NameWeightage
Unit 1Basics of Derivatives10
Unit 2Understanding Index5
Unit 3Introduction to Forwards and Futures20
Unit 4Introduction to Options20
Unit 5Strategies using Equity Futures and Equity Options10
Unit 6Trading Mechanism10
Unit 7Clearing, Settlement and Risk Management10
Unit 8Legal and Regulatory Environment5
Unit 9Accounting and Taxation5
Unit 10Sales Practices and Investor Protection Measures5


Examination Specifications

This is a computer-based examination with multiple choice questions.

The examination consists of 100 questions of 1 mark each adding to 100 marks.

The examination should be completed in 2 hours.

There shall be negative marking of 25% of the marks assigned to the question for each wrong answer.

The passing score for the examination is 60 marks.