1. Structure
To gain the IOC you need to pass three units. Delegates normally complete two core units (Introduction to Securities and Investment, and UK Financial Regulation). The third unit is then a choice of one of the specialised technical units.
Entry requirements
This qualification is suitable for anyone working, or aspiring to work, in the administration and/or operations sector and no previous qualifications are required.
Syllabus
Core units:
Core
Introduction to Securities and Investments
A stand-alone qualification, as well as the introductory unit of the Investment Operations Certificate (IOC) programme, this exam provides an overview of all areas of investment to new entrants to the financial services industry.
Core
UK Financial Regulation
The regulations and legislation that underpin financial markets in the conduct of investment business in the UK.
Technical units
Please choose one technical unit from the following based on the most appropriate fit to your job role:
Technical
Asset Servicing
The fundamentals of asset servicing in relation to operational and administrative functions.
Technical
Client Money and Assets
An introduction to the concepts and processes necessary to understand the importance of client assets and how they must be adequately protected under the FCA’s client assets (CASS) regime.
Technical
Collective Investment Schemes Administration
The fundamentals of collective investment schemes in relation to operational and administrative functions.
Technical
Global Financial Compliance
You’ll be introduced to international compliance, including the international regulatory environment, the compliance function, managing the risk of financial crime, ethics, integrity and fairness, and governance, risk management and compliance.
Technical
Global Securities Operations
You’ll explore and understand global securities services and administration in relation to the needs of operations and administration staff.
Technical
Technology in Investment Management
A stand-alone qualification, as well as a technical unit within the Investment Operations Certificate (IOC) programme, this exam provides those engaged in IT with a broader understanding of the information technology needs of firms in the financial services sector.
Technical
Operational Risk
A broad introduction to the main types of risk (credit and market) and explores the rise in importance of operational risk controls.
Technical
Transfer Agency Administration and Oversight
A detailed overview of Transfer Agency processes and related activities as well as the responsibilities of Transfer Agencies with respect to the Retail Distribution Review, ISA regulations, FCA sourcebooks and the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SM&CR).
Technical
Platforms, Wealth Management and Service Providers
The aim of this unit is to ensure that you have an introduction to the services offered by platforms, wealth managers and related outsource service providers in relation to operations and administration staff.
Technical
Risk in Financial Services
A stand-alone award but also part of the Investment Operations Certificate (IOC), this exam offers practitioners a broad understanding of the key risks that arise within financial services, covering business risk, corporate governance, regulation, risk management and includes operational, credit, market, investment and liquidity risks.
2. Study methods
We will help you maximise your time and make revision easier.
Core and Technical units
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Distance Learning
Study at your own pace from wherever you like. Our Distance Learning study option offers maximum flexibility for independent study.
Inhouse training
We also offer inhouse training, allowing bespoke exam courses to be designed specifically for your staff. Please contact us on 020 7920 3060 or email us at citybookings@kaplan.co.uk to find out more about how we can help train your team.
3. Exams and sittings
Each IOC unit comprises a one hour, 50 question multiple choice exam (except for UK Financial Regulation which is 1½ hour 75 question exams, and the Global Financial Compliance and Risk in Financial Services, which are 2 hour 100 question exams).
The exams are based on published syllabi, which are reviewed annually to reflect changes in the industry and the regulatory environment.
All IOC exams are delivered by computer based testing (CBT) on demand and can be sat globally. You'll need to register with the CISI directly for exam entry.
You will be given your exam results as soon as you’ve completed your computer based exam. They will also be available online within 24 hours.
How long does it take to pass?
The CISI recommends 80 - 100 hours of study time per unit over a period of 3-4 months before you take an exam.
Are there any exemptions available?
You may be eligible for an exemption from one or more of the exams depending on your prior qualifications. Please see CISI’s exemptions page for further details.
4. Study Materials and Delivery Costs
Study Materials
Our Distance Learning study option includes both online and printed study materials.
Materials included
Core units
Technical Units
If you order your materials through Kaplan, you'll be able to exclude the workbook fee when booking exams with the CISI.
Delivery costs
How much it costs to deliver your study materials and how long it takes depends on where in the world you live.
For detailed information on delivery prices please refer to our delivery page.
5. MyKaplan: Online Learning Portal
MyKaplan is an online learning portal with practical resources to help you prepare for your core unit exams.
Online Features
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Study Guide
A helpful guide that outlines the order of topics you should study, including which questions to practice, and which videos to watch.
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Exam Syllabus
A complete breakdown of what you’ll be studying.
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Tutor Recordings
Watch and replay classes whenever you like.
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Classroom Slide Pack
Your central reference point for note taking. It integrates the CISI Institute material to aid the note taking process, which provides you with more time to practice questions.
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Workbook
Helps you keep all your notes in one place to improve revision.
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Chapter Questions
See how much you’ve learnt at the end of every chapter.
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Mock Exams
Test your knowledge with mock exams, mirroring the real exams.
Access duration
You can access your online content for 12 months from your enrolment date.
computer Minimum system requirements for MyKaplan
6. Tutor support
We’ll support you every step of the way throughout your studies. You can contact a tutor and get the help you need, with a response time of within 48 working hours. Please contact us at citybookings@kaplan.co.uk.
7. Course pricing and funding options
Pricing structure
Units are all priced individually, so you can purchase them altogether or separately as you need them.
| |
Distance Learning (price per unit) |
| Introduction to Securities and Investments (core unit) |
£390 inc. VAT |
£325 exc. VAT |
| UK Financial Regulation (core unit) |
£390 inc. VAT |
£325 exc. VAT |
| Technical units |
£139.20 inc. VAT |
£116 exc. VAT |
Payment options
Your employer may fund the costs of your studies if you’re already working in a related field and want to develop your learning. You’ll need to speak to them to see if you’re eligible and confirm that they’re happy to pay for your studies.
You may eligible for an Apprenticeship through your employer, depending on your circumstances. Speak to your employer to find out more.
How to enrol
Enrol online or call us on 020 7920 3060.