International Introduction to Investment

ESMA/MiFID II compliant

Why study the International Introduction to Investment?

The International Introduction to Investment offers a broad introduction to the financial services professional sector, with a specific focus on investments from a global perspective. It is the foundation exam for many higher level CISI qualifications.

The qualification focuses on international markets and covers key financial principles and products in depth including assets and markets, equities, bonds, derivatives and investment funds. It explores the broader economic environment in which the financial services profession operates and looks at how economic activity is determined and managed in different economic and political systems. The qualification offers an introduction to financial services regulation and ensures candidates are provided with an understanding of ethical behaviour and acting with integrity.

Is the International Introduction to Investment right for me?

It is suitable for new entrants to the profession and staff who are beginning their career in financial services. The broad topics covered make the qualification suitable for all staff, not just those responsible for making investment decisions, including administration, finance and accounting, IT, customer services, sales and marketing and HR and training.

Key features:

  • An entry-level qualification – provides an overview of investment and professional terminology from a global perspective without focusing on a specific jurisdiction
  • First step in the CISI’s qualification pathway – can be taken as a stand-alone qualification or as part of the Investment Operations Certificate (IOC)
  • Available in Arabic, English and Spanish
  • Ideal for induction purposes – can be integrated into induction programmes to ensure a benchmark level of understanding amongst all employees
  • Free CISI Student membership – become associated with a Chartered professional body and take advantage of an extensive range of benefits
  • Meets the ESMA appropriate qualification requirements for information givers
  • Exams available online via remote invigilation or at one of our global test centres

Qualification Factsheets

Qualification Structure

The qualification is achieved by successfully passing a multiple-choice question exam. Select a language to view the exam details.

 

Exam Details

Exam Availability

Pass Mark / Pass Rate

The current pass rate for this exam is and the pass mark is . The exam grades are as follows:

Regulated Qualifications Framework

credits on the Regulated Qualifications Framework are awarded upon successfully passing this exam

Feedback and Appeals

For further details on how to give us your feedback and / or Appeal your result, please refer to our Exam Policies.

Study support

Self-study

A CISI International Introduction to Investment workbook is required to be purchased when booking the exam. This is to ensure there is one standard workbook from which all exam candidates can prepare.

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Accredited Training Partners

You can choose to complete formal training for our exams with a CISI Accredited Training Partner (ATP).

Find an ATP near you

Post Qualification Opportunities

Membership

Obtaining the International Introduction to Investment entitles you to join the Institute at Affiliate level. As a member of the Institute, you will enjoy the recognition of being a professional in a world of increasing competition. The extensive continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities available through the CISI’s suite of membership benefits ensures financial services practitioners can maintain competence and meet the requirements of firms and the regulator.

Higher Level Qualifications

The International Introduction to Investment is the first step in the CISI’s qualification pathways for capital markets, operations, compliance and risk, and wealth management. Further your theoretical and practical knowledge within your chosen sector.

Capital Markets & Corporate Finance Compliance & Risk Operations Wealth Management

We are withdrawing our Introduction to Securities & Investment (International – Spanish) exam, also known as FCIS on 31 July 2024. If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Support Team.