Prepare for the NISM VA exam with a 4 to 6-week structured plan. Download the free NISM workbook after enrolment at certifications.nism.ac.in. Study 2 to 3 chapters per week, prioritising Taxation, NAV and Scheme Performance, which carry the most marks. Practise every numerical example in the workbook, then take 3 to 5 full-length mock tests in the final week to build exam instinct and time management.

The NISM VA exam is considered moderate in difficulty, with a 50 percent pass mark and no negative marking. Most candidates who study the official workbook carefully for 4 to 6 weeks clear the exam on their first attempt. The hardest chapters are Taxation and NAV calculations, which involve numerical questions. With consistent preparation and mock test practice, the exam is manageable for candidates from any educational background, including those without prior finance experience.

To clear your NISM VA exam easily, focus on the official NISM workbook (November 2025 edition) and practise numerical questions thoroughly. Prioritise high-weightage chapters, including Taxation, NAV and Fund Distribution Practices. Take at least 3 full-length mock tests under timed conditions. On exam day, attempt every question because there is no negative marking. With 40 to 60 hours of focused preparation, most candidates pass on the first attempt.

The NISM VA passing marks are 50 out of 100, which is 50 percent. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions of 1 mark each, to be completed in 2 hours. There is no negative marking, so candidates should attempt every question. The passing score is fixed by NISM and is the same across all attempts. Certificates are issued only to candidates who have furnished their PAN during registration.

The NISM VA exam has 100 multiple-choice questions, each worth 1 mark, for a total of 100 marks. Candidates have 2 hours (120 minutes) to complete all questions. There is no negative marking, and the passing score is 50 marks (50 percent). Questions are drawn from 12 chapters of the NISM workbook covering mutual fund concepts, regulations, distribution practices, taxation, NAV and scheme performance.