NISM Series XVII: Frequently Asked Questions
Fee, validity, negative marking, re-attempts and renewal: the questions candidates actually ask.
Short answers to common questions about NISM Series XVII, the Retirement Adviser Certification Examination. The answers follow NISM's exam page and the June 2025 workbook.
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The exam
What is the NISM Series XVII exam pattern?expand_more
100 multiple choice questions of 1 mark each, 100 marks in total, in 120 minutes.
What is the passing mark for NISM Series XVII?expand_more
60 out of 100, counted after negative marking.
Is there negative marking in NISM Series XVII?expand_more
Yes. 25% of a question's marks is deducted for a wrong answer, which is 0.25 per wrong answer. Unanswered questions carry no penalty.
How much time do I get per question?expand_more
120 minutes for 100 questions is 72 seconds each.
How many chapters are in the Series XVII syllabus?expand_more
9. Chapter 4 on the National Pension System carries the most weight at 20%, followed by chapter 3 on retirement planning at 15%.
Is the NISM Series XVII exam online?expand_more
It is computer-based, booked through NISM's certification portal.
Fee, registration and study material
What is the NISM Series XVII exam fee?expand_more
₹1,500 plus payment gateway charges.
What is the NISM Series XVII exam date?expand_more
There is no fixed date. You register on NISM's certification portal and book your own slot.
What if I fail NISM Series XVII?expand_more
You can register for another attempt on NISM's certification portal. Check the portal for the current re-booking rules and fee before you pick a date.
Which workbook should I study from?expand_more
This cluster follows the June 2025 version. Check NISM's exam page to confirm it is still the current one.
Does the workbook include practice questions?expand_more
Yes. Every chapter ends with sample questions.
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Who needs it
Who should take NISM Series XVII?expand_more
Individuals, proprietors, partners and representatives of a retirement adviser registered under the PFRDA (Retirement Adviser) Regulations, 2016.
What qualification do I need for Series XVII?expand_more
None to sit the exam. To register with PFRDA as a retirement adviser, the regulations separately require a graduate degree or a professional qualification with relevant experience.
Is Series XVII the same as Series X-A?expand_more
No. Series XVII is the Retirement Adviser exam under PFRDA's framework. Series X-A and X-B are the Investment Adviser exams under SEBI's.
Validity and renewal
How long is the NISM Series XVII certificate valid?expand_more
3 years.
How do I renew the Series XVII certificate?expand_more
Either take the exam again or complete NISM's Continuing Professional Education programme before the certificate expires. PFRDA expects retirement advisers to renew before expiry so there is no gap.
What is the pass rate for NISM Series XVII?expand_more
NISM has not published one.
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