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NISM Series VIII: Equity Derivatives

Pass the NISM Series VIII exam for new job opportunities in finance.

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Overview

What Is NISM Series VIII?

The NISM Series VIII: Equity Derivatives Examination is a required exam from the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM). It's for sellers or approved users at companies trading equity derivatives. The exam covers India's equity derivatives market basics: products, trading methods, trade finalization, risk management, and rules. Passing allows you to sell equity derivatives and advise clients confidently.

Importance Of The Certification

The NISM Series VIII certificate is required to work with equity derivatives in India, as mandated by SEBI (India's market regulator). It ensures professionals meet a minimum knowledge standard. This certification protects investors, builds trust, and shows you have the skills to help people invest and trade in equity derivatives.

Who Should Take The Exam?

Sellers or approved users at firms trading equity derivatives.
Staff in stock trading firms dealing with or advising on equity futures and options.
Sub-brokers, dealers, and client relationship managers.
Students and graduates seeking finance careers.
Anyone aspiring to work in the equity derivatives market.

Benefits Of Becoming A Certified Equity Derivatives Professional

Work with firms trading equity derivatives.
More job options in finance (e.g., derivatives trader, technical analyst).
Earn commissions and income.
Potential to work independently (with other registrations).
Learn about equity derivatives, trading, and rules.
Help clients achieve financial goals with derivative products.
Increases knowledge of products and processes.
Adds value to your resume.

Exam Details

  • Exam Structure and Format
  • Computer-based test
  • 100 multiple-choice questions.
  • 100 total marks.
  • 2-hour duration.
  • Passing score: 60%.
  • Negative marking: 25% of marks for the question (0.25 for a 1-mark question).
  • Exam Language Options
  • English.
  • Eligibility Criteria
  • No specific age or education prerequisites.
  • Basic financial market understanding is helpful.
  • Recommended minimum age: 18 years.
  • Open to students and working professionals.

Registration Process

  • How to Register
  • Visit NISM's certification portal (certifications.nism.ac.in)
  • Create an account or log in.
  • Fill details as per PAN card; upload PAN and photo.
  • Select "NISM-Series-VIII: Equity Derivatives Certification Examination."
  • Choose the exam center, date, and time.
  • Pay a fee online.
  • Download admit card and study material (soft copy usually provided).
  • Exam Fee and Payment Methods
  • Fee: ₹1,500 plus GST
  • Pay by debit card, credit card, net banking, or UPI
  • Exam Structure and Format
  • Exams held year-round at centers across India. Choose date and time during registration.

NISM Series V A: Syllabus

Download Official Syllabus PDF

Unit 1: Basics of Derivatives

Introduction to derivatives, market participants, types of risks.

10%

Unit 2: Understanding Index

Index concept, construction, and applications.

5%

Unit 3: Introduction to Forwards and Futures

Futures contracts, margining, settlement, payoff structures.

20%

Unit 4: Introduction to Options

Call/Put options, moneyness, Option Greeks.

20%

Unit 5: Option Trading Strategies

Strategies using equity futures and options.

10%

Unit 6: Introduction to Trading Systems (10%)

Market participants, order types, trading mechanisms.

10%

Unit 7: Introduction to Clearing and Settlement System

KYC procedures, transaction processing, and customer service standards.

10%

Unit 8: Legal and Regulatory Environment

Role of SEBI, exchanges; key regulations.

5%

Unit 9: Accounting and Taxation

Accounting and taxation of derivative transactions.

5%

Unit 10: Sales Practices and Investor Protection Services

Codes of conduct, investor protection measures.

5%

Preparation Guide

Study Materials and Resources

Official NISM Study Material

Latest workbook (soft copy usually available post-registration; printed copy purchasable).

Mock Tests And Sample Papers

Use mock tests with practice questions (free/paid options available).

Preparation Tips and Strategies

Time Management

  • Create and follow a study plan. Practice mock tests for speed.

Important Chapters to Focus On

  • Forwards, Futures, Options, trading strategies, clearing, settlement, risk management.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping syllabus, not practicing mock tests, last-minute study.

Study Plan Recommendation

Week 1-2

  • Basics of derivatives, understanding indices

Week 3-4

  • Forwards, Futures, Options (pricing, Greeks).

Week 5-6

  • systems, clearing & settlement.

Final Week

  • Revise all; focus on regulations, accounting, taxation; take full mock tests.

Study Materials and Resources

Download Official Syllabus PDF

NISM website

Links to Registration Portal

certifications.nism.ac.in

Contact Information for Support

Support details from NISM website

Useful Links

NISM Official Website
SEBI Website

Ready To Become A Certified Equity Derivatives Professional?

Register, prepare, and join successful finance professionals.

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View Syllabus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the validity of the certification?

Valid for 3 years from the examination date.

Renew by re-taking the exam before expiry or by completing a NISM Continuing Professional Education (CPE) program.
Reappear by registering and paying the fee again. No limit on attempts.
Results are typically declared immediately post-exam. Passing certificate issued to successful candidates (PAN required).
Bring Admit Card and original photo ID (PAN card, Aadhar, Driving License, Passport).
No specific dress code; presentable attire advised.

Check official NISM instructions. On-screen calculator usually provided.

NISM certifications are for Indian markets, mandated by SEBI. International recognition varies by country/organization.

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