📘 Course Outline – NISM Series II-B: RTA – Mutual Fund Certification
The NISM Series II-B certification is tailored for professionals working or aspiring to work as Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs) in the mutual fund industry. It covers a wide range of topics including financial instruments, mutual fund structures, regulatory framework, and operational aspects of handling investor transactions. The structured outline below helps candidates prepare in a focused and efficient manner:
📚 Units 1 to 5 – Introduction to Securities & SEBI Regulations (20%)
- Unit 1: Understand the basics of securities and their significance in capital markets.
- Unit 2: Deep dive into the features and risks of equity instruments.
- Unit 3: Learn about the structure and benefits of debt securities.
- Unit 4: Explore hybrid and other non-traditional financial instruments.
- Unit 5: Familiarize with SEBI’s role, objectives, powers, and regulatory functions.
🏢 Units 6 to 7 – Registrar & Transfer Agent (RTA) Framework (25%)
- Unit 6: Introduction to RTAs, their role in the mutual fund ecosystem, and service functions.
- Unit 7: Detailed look at RTA regulatory obligations and compliance as per SEBI norms.
💼 Units 8 to 10 – Mutual Fund Concepts & Product Structures (25%)
- Unit 8: Core concepts, benefits, and classification of mutual funds.
- Unit 9: Legal structure and key stakeholders in a mutual fund (AMC, Trustees, Sponsors).
- Unit 10: Different mutual fund schemes (equity, debt, hybrid, ETFs, FOFs).
🔧 Units 11 to 15 – Operations, Transactions & Investor Servicing (30%)
- Unit 11: Understanding NAV, load structure, cut-off timings, and operational cycles.
- Unit 12: Onboarding and servicing investors, KYC process, and risk profiling.
- Unit 13: Role of banking partners and fund flow mechanisms in mutual fund operations.
- Unit 14: Processing financial transactions – subscriptions, redemptions, switches, SIP/STP/SWP.
- Unit 15: Handling non-financial transactions like address, bank mandates, nominee changes, etc.
🧾 Total Units: 15 | Exam Duration: 2 Hours | Question Pattern: 100 Multiple Choice Questions | Passing Criteria: 50% | Negative Marking: None (Effective April 1, 2025) | Reference Material: NISM Official Workbook – March 2025 Edition
📘 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – NISM Series II-B: RTA – Mutual Fund
1. What is the NISM Series II-B Certification?
This is a SEBI-mandated certification developed by NISM for professionals working with or aspiring to work as Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs) in the mutual fund industry. It ensures adequate knowledge of mutual fund operations, regulations, and investor services.
2. Who should take this certification?
This exam is ideal for individuals working in mutual fund back offices, RTAs, fund service providers, or professionals handling client servicing and transaction processing.
3. What are the eligibility criteria for this exam?
There are no strict eligibility conditions. Anyone with an interest in the RTA-MF domain can appear for this exam. A basic understanding of finance or mutual funds can be helpful.
4. What is the exam pattern?
- Mode: Online computer-based test
- Duration: 2 hours
- Questions: 100 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Passing Marks: 50%
- Negative Marking: None (as per the latest guideline effective April 1, 2025)
5. What topics are covered in the syllabus?
The syllabus includes:
- Securities and capital markets
- Equity, debt, and hybrid instruments
- Basics and structure of mutual funds
- Roles of RTAs and SEBI regulations
- Operational aspects like KYC, transactions, and investor servicing
6. Is the official NISM workbook sufficient for preparation?
Yes. The NISM Workbook (March 2025 Edition) is designed specifically for this exam. It is the most accurate and up-to-date study material covering all relevant units and regulations.
7. How do I register for the exam?
Visit https://certifications.nism.ac.in, create an account, select Series II-B, choose your exam center/date, and pay the fee online.
8. What is the validity of the certificate?
The certification is valid for 3 years from the date of passing the exam. Renewal requires clearing a refresher exam before expiry.
9. What is the fee for the exam?
The standard fee is ₹1,500 + applicable GST. It may vary slightly, so always check the NISM portal before applying.
10. What areas should I focus on during preparation?
Pay special attention to Units 11–15 which cover:
- Operational concepts of mutual funds
- Banking, KYC, financial and non-financial transactions
- Regulatory duties and compliance requirements of RTAs
11. Are mock tests available for practice?
Yes! You can find mock tests, topic-wise quizzes, and full-length practice exams at nismexams.com.
12. Can I reappear if I fail the exam?
Yes. You can re-register and reappear anytime. There is no restriction on attempts. Use each attempt to analyze weaknesses and improve.
13. Will I receive a certificate upon passing?
Yes. A digitally signed certificate will be issued on your NISM candidate portal after successful completion of the exam. You can download and print it.
14. How can I contact NISM for support?
Email: certifications@nism.ac.in
Website: www.nism.ac.in
Phone: Refer to the helpdesk section on the official website for updated contact numbers.
