NISM Series XV: Research Analyst
Your Complete guide to ace the NISM Series XV certification and advance your career in financial research.
Overview
What is NISM Series XV?
NISM Series XV: Research Analyst Certification is a test for people who want to work as research analysts. It checks if you know the basics of the stock market, how to study companies, and how to write reports. Passing this exam means you understand how to look at stocks, bonds, and the economy. This makes it easier for you to give good advice about investments.
Importance of the Certification
This certification is important because it is required by SEBI for anyone who wants to be a research analyst. It shows you have the skills to study markets and companies the right way. It also proves you know how to follow rules and share honest research. Employers and clients trust certified analysts more, so this certification helps you stand out.
Who Should Take the Exam?
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Research Analyst
Exam Details
- Exam Structure and Format
- 100 questions: 92 multiple-choice, 2 case-based (each case has 4 questions)
- Each question is worth 1 mark
- Total marks: 100
- Time: 2 hours
- 0.25 marks deducted for each wrong answer
- Pass mark: 60
- Questions cover topics like stock markets, company analysis, valuation, and report writing
- Exam Language Options
- English and Hindi.
- Eligibility Criteria
- No minimum education needed
Registration Process
- How to Register
- Go to the NISM certification website
- Create an account and fill in your details.
- Pick the Research Analyst exam
- Choose your test center, date, and time
- Upload your documents
- Pay the exam fee online.
- Exam Fee and Payment Methods
- Fee: ₹1,500 plus GST
- Pay by debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI
- Exam Dates and Schedule
- Exams are held all year at many centers. Pick your date and time when you register.
Unit 1: Introduction to Research Analyst Profession
Covers the role, responsibilities, and essential qualities of a research analyst.
6%
Unit 2: Introduction to Securities Market
Explains the basics of securities, market structure, and key market participants.
4%
Unit 3: Terminology in Equity and Debt Markets
Defines important terms used in equity and debt markets, including shares, bonds, and yields.
4%
Unit 4: Fundamentals of Research
Introduces research methods, including fundamental and technical analysis.
5%
Unit 5: Economic Analysis
Focuses on macroeconomic and microeconomic factors that impact markets.
10%
Unit 6: Industry Analysis
Teaches how to analyze industry trends, drivers, and competitive factors.
10%
Unit 7: Company Analysis – Business and Governance
Covers business models, management quality, and corporate governance.
8%
Unit 8: Company Analysis – Financial Analysis
Focuses on reading financial statements, ratios, and financial health.
16%
Unit 9: Corporate Actions
Explains dividends, stock splits, rights issues, and other corporate events.
5%
Unit 10: Valuation Principles
Covers valuation methods like DCF, PE ratio, and market multiples.
16%
Unit 11: Fundamentals of Risk and Return
Discusses risk types, return calculation, and risk management
5%
Unit 12: Qualities of a Good Research Report
Explains what makes a research report clear, accurate, and useful.
4%
Unit 13: Legal and Regulatory Environment
Covers SEBI rules, compliance, and the legal framework for research analysts.
10%
Preparation Guide
Study Materials and Resources
Official NISM Study Material
The official NISM workbook covers all chapters, exam topics, examples, and practice questions.
Mock Tests and Sample Papers
Our Premium Mock tests offer real exam questions, help practice time management, and boost confidence.
Preparation Tips and Strategies
Time Management
- Make a daily study plan
- Break the syllabus into small parts
- Focus on chapters with higher weightage
- Study in short sessions
- Take regular breaks
Important Chapters to Focus On
- Company Analysis – Financial Analysis
- Valuation Principles
- Industry Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Legal and Regulatory Environment
- Company Analysis – Business and Governance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping important chapters
- Not practicing enough questions
- Ignoring the official workbook
- Not taking timed mock tests
- Missing updates in SEBI rules
- Submitting wrong documents during registration
Study Plan Recommendation
Week 1-2
- Read: Introduction to Research Analyst Profession, Introduction to Securities Market, Terminology in Equity and Debt Markets, Fundamentals of Research.
Week 3-4
- Study: Economic Analysis, Industry Analysis, Company Analysis – Business and Governance.
Week 5-6
- Focus: Company Analysis – Financial Analysis, Corporate Actions, Valuation Principles.
Final Week
- Revise: Fundamentals of Risk and Return, Qualities of a Good Research Report, Legal and Regulatory Environment. Take mock tests and review weak areas.
Study Materials and Resources
Download Official Syllabus PDF
Download the NISM Series XV: Research Analyst syllabus.
Links to Registration Portal
Register for the exam on the NISM portal.
Contact Information for Support
Email certification@nism.ac.in or call 8080806476 for help.
Useful Links
NISM Official Website
SEBI Website
AMFI Website
NISM CPE Portal
Ready to Become a Certified Research Analyst?
Take the first step today. Register, prepare with our Premium Mock Tests, and join many successful Research Analyst professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the validity of the certification?
Valid for 3 years.