NCFM Examinations

I am writing this post to enlighten beginners about NCFM Certifications. NSE’s certification in financial markets commonly known as NCFM (NSE's Certifications in Financial Markets) is the first step towards the ladder of financial world. The purpose of these certifications is to create awareness among the finance professionals about Indian Financial Markets. There is no specific requirements as to who can pursue these certifications, but one has to be atleast a High School Passed out & 18 years of age.


Currently there are 24 separate modules in NCFM, most of which are fairly easy to clear with a nominal amount of preparation and that's why few people call them kinder garden certifications. But remember the old quote that, if you want to reach the top of a ladder, you need to start from the lower step. Clearing these certifications not only increases your knowledge about financial world but also shows your commitment to build career in financial markets.

Please Note that, Clearing these exams doesn't guarantee you a job but do make your Job application stronger than other candidates. Following is the list of most sort after NCFM Certification by the employers in the Financial Industry.

A beginner can start his campaign in the following order as per me.
1. Financial Market  Beginners Module
2. Securities Market Basic Module
3. Commercial Banking in India
4. Capital Market Dealers Module
5. Derivative Market Dealers Module
6. NISM Series-I: Currency Derivatives Certification Examination
7. Commodities Market Module
8. NSDL - Depository Operations Module
9. Investment Analysis & Portfolio Management
10. Compliance Officers Corporate Module
11. Equity Research Module
12. NISM Series-VA : Mutual Funds Distributors Module
13. Option Trading Strategies Modules

Among all the modules I think NSDL Module needs serious preparation. That’s because it deals with many new concepts like stock lending and borrowing, intermediary account, back end processes, dematerialization and Re-materialization, Pledge & Hypothecation etc. More importantly NSDL Module deals with the process flows during different transactions.


The fees of most of the modules vary from Rs 1000 to Rs 2000 and validity of the certificates varies from 3 years to 5 years. The exam date can be taken through NSE Website and the process is quite easy. Most of the modules need preparation of 8 to 14 hours. Once you register for the exam, the study material is sent to you at the prescribed address. Alternatives you can download study material from NSE Website. The Study Material online is exactly the same you will get via post. You can also call NCFM Helpline (011-23344313-27) for further enquries.


I hope this post will help guys planing to take NCFM certifications in future. In case of any queries you can write to me at shubhneet.sethi@gmail.com and I will be happy to answer them.