NISM AcademyNISM Series VIII Equity Derivatives: exam pattern, syllabus and mock tests
For dealers and sales staff in the equity futures and options segment. NISM Series VIII covers futures, options, option strategies, trading systems, clearing and settlement, and the rules around equity derivatives in India. It is required for people dealing in the equity F&O segment of a stock exchange.
NISM Series VIII exam pattern at a glance
- Questions
- 100
- Duration
- 120 minutes
- Total marks
- 100
- Passing score
- 60% (60/100)
- Negative marking
- 25% per wrong answer
- Exam fee
- ₹1,500 + charges
- Certificate valid
- 3 years
100 multiple-choice questions, 1 mark each. Fees and pattern are set by NISM and can change, so confirm on the official NISM Series VIII page before you book.
Who should take NISM Series VIII?
Approved users and sales staff of trading members in equity derivatives, plus traders and students who want to understand F&O properly.
Why you need it: NISM sets it as the required standard for people working in the equity derivatives segment of a recognised exchange.
NISM Series VIII syllabus: 10 chapters
- Basics of Derivatives
- Understanding the Index
- Introduction to Forwards and Futures
- Introduction to Options
- Strategies using Equity Futures and Equity Options
- Trading Mechanism
- Introduction to Clearing and Settlement System
- Legal and Regulatory Environment
- Accounting and Taxation
- Sales Practices and Investors Protection Services
How to prepare for NISM Series VIII
Futures and options carry the most marks, so start there. Practise payoff and pricing questions until they’re quick. With 25% negative marking, skip a question unless you can narrow it to two options.
Not sure where you stand?
Take the free NISM Series VIII level check. It takes about 30 minutes, needs no payment, and tells you which chapters to study first. Launch offer: free for our first 100 users. Log in and every mock test, note and flashcard is unlocked.
Start the level checkNISM Series VIII FAQs
What is NISM Series VIII?
NISM Series VIII is the Equity Derivatives Certification Examination conducted by the National Institute of Securities Markets. NISM sets it as the required standard for people working in the equity derivatives segment of a recognised exchange.
How many questions are in NISM Series VIII?
The exam has 100 multiple-choice questions, 1 mark each, for a total of 100 marks. You get 120 minutes.
What is the passing score for NISM Series VIII?
You need 60%, which is 60 out of 100 marks.
Is there negative marking in NISM Series VIII?
Yes. 25% of a question’s marks are deducted for each wrong answer. Unattempted questions score zero.
How should I prepare for NISM Series VIII?
Futures and options carry the most marks, so start there. Practise payoff and pricing questions until they’re quick. With 25% negative marking, skip a question unless you can narrow it to two options.
How do I register for NISM Series VIII?
Create an account on NISM’s certification portal, choose the exam, pick a test centre or remote-proctored slot, and pay the fee online. NISM Academy can’t register you; we link you to the official portal.
How long is the NISM Series VIII certificate valid?
Three years from the date you pass.