NISM Series X-A Exam Pattern
150 marks, 3 hours, negative marking: exactly how Series X-A is scored and passed.
NISM Series X-A is a single computer-based paper of 150 marks, taken in 3 hours at an NISM-authorised test centre. The result is shown on submission, so there is no waiting period and no separate results date.
This page covers the mechanics only: what the paper is worth, how long you get, what counts as a pass, and how long the certificate lasts. What the paper asks about is on the syllabus page.
The paper at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total marks | 150 |
| Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Format | Objective, multiple choice, computer-based |
| Pass mark | 90 out of 150 (60%) |
| Negative marking | 0.25 marks per wrong answer |
| Result | Displayed immediately on submission |
| Certificate validity | 3 years from the date of passing |
| Registration fee | ₹3,000 plus applicable GST |
What 90 marks actually means
You need 90 out of 150 (60%). There is no sectional cut-off and no minimum per chapter, so a weak chapter can be carried by a strong one, unlike exams that require a minimum in every section.
Free account, this exam preselected.
Re-attempts
There is no cap on attempts and no mandatory waiting period between them beyond booking another slot. Each attempt is a fresh registration at the full ₹3,000 fee. A failed attempt is not carried forward or discounted.