Frequently Asked Questions


What is the status of PGPSM? Is it a degree or diploma?

PGPSM is a Post Graduate Programme; it is neither a degree nor a diploma. It is a one-year Master’s level programme. A certificate would be awarded on successful completion.


Is NISM recognized by AICTE or UGC?

NISM is not recognized by AICTE or UGC. It is a trust established by the Securities Exchange Board of India (SEBI), with a vision to lead, catalyze and deliver educational initiatives in securities markets for capacity building. The programme is not approved by SEBI or the Government of India. NISM believes in offering a high quality course that receives recognition from the securities industry by way of industry seeking to recruit students of PGPSM.


What is the level of the programme?

The treatment of subjects is of the same rigour as a Master’s degree of an international university. Six of our students have cleared Level I of CFA, USA even while pursuing PGPSM.


What is the total number of seats available for the programme?

PGPSM has a maximum intake capacity of 50 students.


Is it a classroom-based programme? Is attendance compulsory?

It is a classroom-based programme and attendance is compulsory. Students are likely to derive tremendous benefit through the use of multiple pedagogy delivered by top class faculty. Evaluation is based on a combination of components such as class participation, quizzes, exercises, assignments, and mid-term and end-term examinations.


I am a fresher, and will appear for my final graduation exam. Can I apply?

Yes, a fresher may apply for Provisional Admission. Since this is a Post Graduate Programme, admission will be confirmed only on submission of proof of passing graduation, before the end of Term I (Sept 2012).


Is there any age limit?

There is no age limit for the programme, but it is desirable that the candidate is below 30 years of age.


I do not have any work experience. Am I eligible?

Yes. Work experience is desirable, but not essential. During the admission process, some marks are assigned for relevant work experience.


What are the weights for work experience in the selection process?

Points reserved for work experience will be awarded in proportion to relevance, quality and length of experience. No additional points shall be awarded for work experience in excess of 5 years. Maximum weight for work experience is 10%.


What careers can I expect on completion of PGPSM?

PGPSM prepares you for a career as an Analyst, Merchant Banker, Fund Manager, Treasury-Forex-Risk Manager, Compliance Officer, etc. These career paths find applications in Rating Agencies, Analytics Firms, Brokerage Firms, Mutual Funds and Merchant Banks.


Does NISM assist in placements?

NISM provides placement assistance for students pursuing PGPSM. However, it doesn't guarantee placements. The response for the first batch of PGPSM 2010-11, from the industry has been encouraging. Placement activities for the second batch of PGPSM 2011-12 is in progress and more than 1/3rd of the batch has been placed by leading market players. The placement activities will conclude in June.


The average annual CTC offered to students of first batch of PGSPM: 2010-11 was Rs.6.18 lacs, in a range of Rs.4 lacs to Rs. 15 lacs.


For more information Click Here


What is the program fee? Will I get an education loan?

The fee for the programme is Rs.2,50,000 (Rupees Two Lakh Fifty Thousand only), excluding refundable deposits and hostel fees. Education loans for PGPSM are considered by HDFC-Credila and other banks.


Will NISM provide hostel accommodation?

A limited number of students can be accommodated at NISM Nivas, 1.5 km away from the institute. Preference will be given to outstation women candidates.


What is the selection procedure for PGPSM?

The final selection of the candidate will be based on the following criteria and weights: Candidate Profile (20%), online test (30%), essay (10%) and personal interview (40%).


How do I register for PGPSM online entrance test?

Please visit http://attest.co.in/nism to register for the online entrance test.


What will the online test try to assess?

The online test would attempt to assess the following attributes: Quantitative aptitude, Analytical and reasoning skills, Language proficiency and General Knowledge on Financial Markets.


How should I prepare for the online entrance test?

In the same manner as you would prepare for any MBA entrance test or competitive selection test.


What will be the venues for the online entrance test?

The venues for the online entrance test are: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Faridabad, Goa, Gurgaon, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Patna, Pune, Ranchi, Secunderabad, Surat, and Thane. Please refer prospectus for details.


What will be the venues for the selection interviews?

Personal interviews are likely to be held for shortlisted candidates at Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi. Shortlisted candidates would be intimated by email. Please refer prospectus for details.


What is the difference between PGPSM & PGCSM?

PGPSM is offered by NISM for general public and it is an open programme. Whereas PGCSM is joint programme which NISM conducts for the ICICI Group. PGCSM is a pre-placed programme and successful students join the ICICI Group at the end of term.