AboutPressJoinContactLegalHomeSitemapBrochuresLinksCalendarCareers
Securities & Investment Institute Homepage
Book OnlineMembershipConferencesPublicationsQualificationsTrainingClients
 
Computer Based Testing
Advanced Certificate in Operational Risk
Introduction to Investment Award
IAQ™
Syllabus & Booking Forms
Exam Information
Exam Timetable
Prices
Membership
Accredited Training Providers
Sample Questions
IFA Qualification
SII Certificates
IAC™
Diploma in Investment Compliance
SII Diploma
Qualifications Update
Candidate Assistance
Examination Policies
Exam Centres & Maps
Exam Techniques
Processing Entries & Results
Exam Results
Exam Navigator
Exam Timetable
Booking

email_button
  IAQ text graphic

Download a brochure

The IAQTM is awarded on the basis of passes in any three modules (or two modules plus one exemption). Module selection depends on each candidate's individual circumstances, generally candidates fall into four groups:
  • Individuals presently in an overseeing role, working for a firm which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, are required to take the following modules recommended by the Securities & Investment Institute and required by the Financial Services Skills Council (FSSC) in its list of Appropriate Examinations:
      • Introduction to Securities and Investment
      • FSA Regulatory Environment
      • A technical module relevant to the role
  • Individuals, working for a firm, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, who are not expected to take on an overseeing role, may, if their firm agrees, select any three modules.
  • Individuals, working for firms which are not authorised and not regulated by the Financial Services Authority, particulary firms based offshore, may, if their firm agrees, select any three modules but are recommended to consider first passing Introduction to Securities and Investment and then selecting two modules from the list below:
      • Global Custody
      • Global Settlement
      • Operational Risk
  • Individuals entering the IAQTM examination privately are advised to take Introduction to Securities and Investment and FSA Regulatory Environment as two of the three modules, but may select any three modules.

The IAQTM is a practitioner led programme for administration and operations staff. It equips individuals with an overview of the financial services industry and its regulation as well as providing a detailed picture of their particular industry sector.

There are several benefits in supporting the IAQTM programme:

  • The IAQTM meets regulatory requirements.
  • Senior practitioners set the questions and are closely involved in programme development, this ensures that candidates can apply their knowledge in the work place.
  • Estimates show that some 70% of errors arise in the operations and administration areas.
  • It is every firm's interest to have a well-trained workforce.
  • Professional and competent staff play an important role in increasing customer satisfaction.
  • In a competitive environment supporting the IAQTM programme demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to high standards.
  • Commitment to professional development provides a more interesting work environment and improves recruitment and retention of good staff.
  • Extending the programme to staff below supervisory level contributes to effective succession planning. Best business practice suggests that a well-qualified workforce is a worthwhile investment.
  • Candidates acquire a greater understanding of the industry, the regulatory environment and a detailed knowledge of a particular industry sector.
  • Candidates achieve recognition for the work they have done.
  • Candidates demonstrate a commitment to achieving high standards in the financial services industry.
  • Candidates become eligible for Associate Membership of the Securities and Investment Institute.

Aims

The aim of the Investment Administration Qualification is to ensure that candidates understand their role and the impact of their actions on clients, colleagues and their firms.

Regulatory Approval

The Securities and Investment Institute is committed to best practice in the development, management and administration of its qualifications. For many jobs in the financial services industry, the FSSC requires individuals to hold an Appropriate Examination. As the list below shows, ALL modules in the IAQTM programme are included on the FSSC's List of Appropriate Examinations.

The list of Appropriate Examinations can be found at www.fssc.org.uk
IAQTM Modules

Asset Servicing
Introduction to Securities and Investment
FSA Regulatory Environment
CREST Settlement
Exchange-Traded Derivatives Administration
Global Custody
Global Settlement
ISA and PEP Administration
OEIC Administration
OTC Derivatives Administration
Portfolio Performance Measurement
Private Client Administration
Unit Trust Administration
Operational Risk


IAQ™ - Award Policy

The Syllabus

The examinations are based on the published syllabuses. Syllabuses are reviewed regularly to reflect changes in both the industry and the regulatory environment.

The standards of the Introduction to Securities and Investment examination will be applicable to a member of staff who has recently joined the industry. Other modules are aimed at staff who have been working in a particular area for a period of up to 18 months.

Click here to view the latest syllabuses .

Assessment Structure

The IAQTM consists of three modules. Each module is a one hour 50 multiple choice question examination.

The questions are randomised so candidates cannot assume that the paper will follow the syllabus order. Candidates are strongly advised to visit the Securities and Investment Institute website and refer to the full syllabus for details on testing specifications.

Pass Mark

The pass mark for each module is normally 70%.

Programme Timeline

There is no set period in which to achieve the IAQTM. However, candidates should note that if they are undertaking the examination for UK regulatory purposes, they would need to pass all 3 modules of the IAQTM within 2 years of starting the activity.

(Refer to FSA's Training and Competence Sourcebook which may be found on the FSA website: www.fsa.gov.uk)

Qualification Registration Form

All candidates are required to complete a Qualification Registration Form when registering for their first IAQTM module. The information given on the Qualification Registration Form helps the Securities and Investment Institute monitor performance and meet the requirement of the UK Government regulator in education, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).

Examination Entry Details

The IAQTM Examination Entry Form must be received by the Securities and Investment Institute no less than 21 days prior to the examination date. Candidates may sit more than one examination on each date, but please note that examination modules are often held simultaneously. Candidates with specials needs should note that they must notify the Securities and Investment Institute Customer Operations Team at least 28 days prior to the date of the examination.

Examination Venues

Click here to view Exam information including exam venues

Performance Reports

A personal performance report highlights the areas of the syllabus where a candidate demonstrated less than the required knowledge. The report is computer generated with truncated headings, candidates are advised to refer to the full syllabus. To obtain an examination performance report, at a cost of £5, simply complete and return the Performance Report application form. Click here to download a Performance Report application form

Training

Click here to view a complete list of Accredited Training Providers

  
  search site
Site Designed by Ludoowd Interactive Set Text Size