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FAQs

Do you have a question about the courses we offer and specific course fees, how to register, exam times and locations, or anything else related to IFSE? Check out our FAQs below. If we haven’t answered your question, feel free to contact us and we will be pleased to help you.

Researching a course
What courses are available through IFSE?

IFSE offers a variety of courses for financial services professionals. View our catalogue.

How much do IFSE courses cost?

You can find course pricing here

Registering for a course
How do I register for a course?

Follow these instructions.

  1. Choose the LOGIN/REGISTER box.
  2. For returning students, login using your username and password. Choose “Enrol in a Course” in the menu bar.
    For new students choose "Become a Student" and supply all mandatory information in the following screens.
  3. If you have a contract code and password, enter it where required and click "Yes". If you do not have a contract code, click "No".
  4. Choose the course you want to enrol in. Click “Next”.
  5. If optional products are available for purchase, they will appear for you to choose. Click “Next”.
  6. Complete your profile information as indicated on the screen. Take care in completing your mailing and shipping address to ensure that any materials that you have ordered will be delivered promptly and correctly. Click the "Save" button to proceed to the shopping cart.
  7. Verify your shopping cart information and click on "Process Payment".
  8. Review the Terms and Conditions completely. To accept the Terms and Conditions, check the box and click "Yes". If you do not want to accept the Terms and Conditions, click "No". Your course enrolment will be cancelled.
  9. Provide your credit card information and click on "Pay Now". Please do not touch the screen until your payment has been processed. A copy of the receipt will appear and can be printed for your records. The receipt will also be stored in your student record for future reference.
Where can I find a receipt for my transactions online?

Follow these instructions.

  • Login to IFSE.
  • Click "Shopping" in the menu bar.
  • Choose "Purchase History " from the submenu.
  • Choose the reference no. of the transaction you wish to view.
How do I get my tax receipt for a course?

IFSE issues tax receipts for eligible tuition fees (i.e., course fees above $100 before tax). Tax receipts are available online each year after the last day of February for courses taken in the preceding calendar year.

You can access your tax receipt by logging into your IFSE account.

  • Choose "Tax Receipt".
  • Choose "Printable Version" beside the tax receipt you wish to print.

If you take IFSE courses with our Academic Partners, you will receive tax receipts from the college or university, and not from IFSE, if course fees were paid directly to the school.

What is a contract code and password?

If you are associated with an organization that has negotiated a special rate and/or bundle with IFSE, you will need the contract code and password to access the offering. Check with your employer or organization, or contact us prior to registering for a course. IFSE is unable to refund any price difference after purchase.
If you register for a course with IFSE using a contract code and password you will be recognized, in our system, as being sponsored by the organization associated with the contract code.

Studying for a course
How do I access my online course?

Follow these instructions:

  • Login to IFSE.
  • Choose the course you want to access and click "Launch this Course".
What types of resources are available to help me study?

IFSE may provide additional tools for purchase to help you study. Tools can include printed textbook, study guide, video recordings, webinar or additional sample exam questions. Refer to the course page to view available tools and prices.

Can I pick up my book from the IFSE office?

If there is a printed textbook, study guide, workbook or any other type of printed material available for your course, it will be shipped directly from IFSE’s printing supplier. Your printed materials will arrive, by courier, within five to seven business days in Canada. Delivery of materials may take longer if you live outside of Canada. IFSE does not carry any inventory of books at the head office.

Can I take an IFSE course in a classroom setting?

Yes, many of our partner colleges or universities across Canada offer IFSE’s Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC) and the Life License Qualification Program (LLQP). Note that our partners deliver our courses independently of IFSE and administer the programs on their own timeline.

For a list of Academic Partners, click here.

What if I have a question about the course materials?

All content-related inquiries may be sent to coursequestions@ifse.ca. Please include the following information so we may better assist you:

  • Student name
  • Student number
  • Course name
  • Exact location of question in the course (unit, lesson, page title)
  • Your question
What if I can’t finish my course by the enrolment deadline? Can I extend it?

If applicable for your course, you may request a course extension of three months. The extension must be purchased at least 15 calendar days prior to (and not including) the course expiration date. You are entitled to one course extension per enrolment. Fees apply.

Note: Some courses (e.g. Continuing Education) are not eligible for course extensions.

Taking a paper-based proctored exam
How do I know if my course has a paper-based exam?

With a paper-based exam, you will be required to attend a specified exam session in person and where the event is invigilated by a proctor. The exam is delivered in a paper format; that is, you will receive an exam booklet with test questions and an answer sheet where you are required to fill in your answers.

The individual webpages for each course provide information about their respective exam under the Exam Details section. For paper-based exams, the exam format will be paper.

Where is the exam schedule?

The exam calendar for paper-based exams can be found by selecting the EXAM DATES box at the top of the website.

How do I register for a paper-based exam?

Check the course webpage to verify whether your exam format is paper-based. For all paper-based exams, you must register at least 10 calendar days prior to (and not including) the available exam date. To register:

  • Login to IFSE.
  • Choose "Exams" from the submenu.
  • Choose "Register for Exam".
  • Choose a Location.
  • Choose an Exam Date.
  • Review the Exam Terms and Conditions completely. To accept the Exam Terms and Conditions, check the box and choose "Register" to proceed to Payment Screen. If you do not want to accept the Exam Terms and Conditions, choose "Back". Your exam registration will be cancelled.
  • Click "Process Payment" (even if the payment is $0) to ensure your exam is booked.
What do I need to bring to the paper-based exam?

You must bring valid, non-expired government-issued photo identification, such as a passport, driver’s license or citizenship card. If you are unable to produce valid photo identification, you will not be allowed to sit your exam. Contact us prior to your exam date if you are unable to supply us with acceptable photo identification.

Bring at least one pencil, an eraser and a calculator to the exam. Supplies will not be provided at the exam centre. The calculator must not have printing capabilities. Cell phones and other electronic devices cannot be used as a calculator. Scrap paper for working out calculations will be provided. Note: Proctors cannot accept payment for outstanding course- or exam-related fees at the exam centre.

What is the cost for a paper-based exam?

Your first exam attempt is typically included in the price of the course enrolment; however, there may be some exceptions. You can find course pricing here.

Second and subsequent exam attempts are subject to an exam re-write fee.

What if I need to schedule my paper-based exam within 10 calendar days of an exam date?

Contact us to see whether this is possible. In addition, you will be charged a late exam registration fee if we are able to accommodate your request.

Can I write a paper-based exam at another location that is not on the exam schedule?

You may request a special exam sitting if there is no exam centre available near you or you require an accommodation.

  • Special Exam Sitting: IFSE can set up a special exam for you at an agreed-upon location, date and time. We can also make arrangements for groups or international locations. The cost of a special exam sitting can be found here. It may take up to 15 calendar days to arrange a special exam sitting.
  • Special Exam Accommodations/Accessibility: IFSE is committed to providing exam accommodations that are accessible for all individuals. It may take up to 30 calendar days to arrange a special exam accommodation.

Contact us for more information.

Can I change my exam location/date once I have registered for my paper-based exam?

Yes, but you must do so 10 calendar days prior to (and not including) your examination date. It is your responsibility to ensure you are registered at the correct examination centre.

What happens if I can’t make the scheduled exam date for my paper-based exam?

You may re-schedule to another available date at no cost if you re-schedule at least 10 calendar days prior to (and not including) your original examination date. A late exam re-scheduling fee will apply if you re-schedule within 10 calendar days of your original examination date.  You must contact us for all late re-scheduling.

If you fail to appear at a scheduled examination, you will be charged a missed exam fee and you forfeit the exam attempt.

What happens if I do not show up for my paper-based exam?

If you are scheduled to write an exam and you do not show up, you will be charged a missed exam fee and you forfeit that exam attempt and any fees that you have paid for that exam write.

What if I fail my paper-based exam and need to re-write?

If you fail an exam and need to attempt it again, this is considered a re-write. You will only be allowed to re-write if you are eligible for another attempt.  You can follow the same process as registering for a paper-based exam. There is a fee to re-write a paper-based exam and you must register 10 calendar days prior to (and not including) your exam date. Click here for more information.

If you need to re-write your exam within 10 calendar days of an exam date, you must contact us to see whether your request can be accommodated. There is a fee for a late exam re-write. Click here for more information.

Taking an online unproctored exam
How do I know if my course has an online unproctored exam?

Online unproctored exams are not invigilated so you do not need to go to a specified exam session. Online unproctored exams are available through the IFSE website 24/7 so you have the flexibility to do them whenever you wish.

The individual webpages for each course provide information about their respective exam under the Exam Details section. For online unproctored exams, the exam format will be online.

Do I need to register for an online unproctored exam?

No, an online unproctored exam is an exam that is taken via www.ifse.ca. The exam is available 24/7 and may be completed from any location where there is internet access. You receive your grade immediately upon submission.

How do I take an online unproctored exam?

You can access your online unproctored exam by logging into your IFSE account. Once you have logged in:

  • Choose "Launch this Course".
  • Once you launch the course, you can access your Examination or Assessment.
What is the cost to rewrite an online unproctored exam?

There is no cost to re-write an online unproctored exam with the exception of the Labour Sponsored Investment Funds Course (LSIF), Canadian Deposits Self-Study Course offered by the Registered Deposit Brokers Association (RDBA) and the 90 Day Training Course (3 attempts allowed for each of the 9 case study exams). Click here to view the cost to re-write the online exam for these courses. You must contact us to pay the re-write fee. Once the re-write fee is paid, IFSE will reset your exam.

What happens if my computer crashes during an online unproctored exam?

IFSE Institute cannot be held responsible for technical problems that you experience with your equipment or internet service. You can check out the user requirements here.

Taking a computer-based online proctored exam (IFSE eTest)
How quickly will I get my certification exam results?

You can typically expect to receive your exam results within 1 to 2 business days

Is the computer-based online proctored exam available in French?

Yes, the exam is available in French and English.

It’s been several days and I still don’t see my exam results. What can I do?

Please contact us at 1-888-865-2437 or info@ifse.ca and someone will help you.

What are the technical requirements for an online proctored exam?
  • A working webcam
  • Microphone (or headphones with a microphone)
  • A stable and fast Internet connection
  • Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox web browsers (Note: Google Chrome is recommended. Safari is not supported).

 

Students must also perform a demonstration test on their computer to prepare for their actual exam. The demo test helps students get familiar with the exam interface and checks their equipment and Internet connection.

What happens if I encounter technical difficulty?

You will receive information prior to your exam that will contain a technical support contact number.  In the event you are unable to proceed with your exam, you may contact IFSE at 1-888-865-2437 to help you to reschedule.

What is a computer-based online proctored exam?

With a computer-based online proctored exam, you write the exam using your own computer in your own environment while being proctored (monitored) in a different location. The exam is delivered through the computer and you will answer each test question by inputting the information into your computer.

Technology is used to monitor your activity during the exam and to communicate with you if necessary. You are required to meet specific systems requirements to take the test using this format.

Who is IFSE using to proctor the exams?

IFSE has partnered with YouTestMe to offer computer-based testing on IFSE’s platform.

Will exams available for booking 24 hours a day / 7 days a week?

Yes. Exams are available for booking on-demand 24/7.

Taking a PEARSON VUE computer-based test centre proctored exam
What does “CBT” stand for?

CBT stands for Computer Based Testing.

How do I know if my course has a computer-based exam?

With a computer-based exam, you will be required to attend a specified exam session in person and where the event is invigilated by a proctor. IFSE has partnered with Pearson VUE to offer computer-based testing, which means you will write your exam in a Pearson VUE or affiliate location. The exam is delivered by a computer, you will answer each test question into the computer directly.

The individual webpages for each course provide information about their respective exam under the Exam Details section. For computer-based exams, the exam format will be computer-based test delivered by Pearson VUE.

How do I register for a computer-based exam?

IFSE has partnered with Pearson VUE to offer computer-based testing. Currently, only certain courses have this option available. Check the course webpage.

Once you register for the course, you will be sent an “Authorization to Test letter”, by email, from IFSE.  You will also receive a detailed email about your Pearson VUE “Web Account” from Pearson VUE.  These emails will provide more information on how to register for a computer-based exam.

You may register for a computer-based exam by logging into your IFSE account. Once you have logged in:

  • Choose "Exams".
  • Choose "Pearson VUE Computer Based Testing". Follow the instructions given to you on your "Authorization to Test Letter" (and detailed email from Pearson VUE) to activate your Pearson VUE account and schedule your exam.

Contact us if you require assistance.

What is the check-in process for the computer-based exam?

Arrive at the test centre 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This will give you adequate time to complete the necessary sign-in procedures. Please be prepared to show one form of ID, have your digital photo taken and provide a digital signature. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, you may be refused admission and forfeit the exam attempt and any applicable fees paid.

What is the cost for a computer-based exam?

Your first exam attempt is typically included in the price of the course enrolment; however, there may be some exceptions. You can find course pricing here.

Second and subsequent exam attempts are subject to an exam re-write fee.

Can I change my exam centre once I have registered for my computer-based exam?

Appointments may be re-scheduled or cancelled through the “Re-schedule a Test” or “Cancel a Test” button on Pearson VUE website. You have to login into your IFSE account first and then click to the Pearson VUE website. Requests to re-schedule or cancel a test appointment must be made at least one business day (24-hour minimum) before your scheduled appointment time.

What happens if I can’t make the scheduled exam date for my computer-based exam?

You can cancel or re-schedule a computer-based exam up to one business day (24-hour minimum) from your scheduled appointment time. If you fail to provide sufficient notice of cancellation or re-schedule, or you do not show up for your exam appointment, you will forfeit the exam attempt and any applicable fees paid. In addition, IFSE will charge you a missed exam fee.

What happens if I do not show up for my computer-based exam?

If you are scheduled to write an exam and you do not show up, you will be charged a missed exam fee and you forfeit that exam attempt and any fees you have paid for that exam write.

What if I fail my computer-based exam and need to re-write?

If you fail an exam and need to attempt it again, this is considered a re-write.  You will only be allowed to re-write if you are eligible for another attempt.  You can purchase a new exam attempt for a fee (“re-write fee”). IFSE will notify Pearson VUE of your eligibility and once you receive confirmation, you can login to your account and schedule your exam.

Taking a PEARSON VUE computer-based online proctored exam
What is a computer-based online proctored exam?

IFSE has partnered with Pearson VUE to offer computer-based testingand their online remote proctoring platform is called OnVUE. With a computer-based online proctored exam, you write the exam using your own computer in your own environment while being proctored by an individual in a different location. The exam is delivered through the computer and you will answer each test question into the computer directly.

Technology is used to enable the proctor to monitor your activity during the exam and to communicate with you if necessary. You are required to meet specific systems requirements to facilitate this test delivery format.

How do I know if my exam is available for online proctoring?

The individual web-pages for each course provide information about their respective exam under the Exam Details section. The exam format will be computer-based online proctored exam.

How do I register for an online proctored exam?

Currently, only certain courses have this option available. Check the course webpage.

To register for your exam, you can follow the steps below:

  1. Log into your IFSE account
  2. Click on “Exams"
  3. Click on “Register for Exam Sitting”
  4. Choose “Computer-based exam delivered by Pearson VUE”
  5. Click on “Next”
  6. Review the Exam Terms and Conditions completely. To accept the Exam Terms and Conditions, check the box and choose "Register" to proceed to Payment Screen. If you do not want to accept the Exam Terms and Conditions, choose "Back". Your exam registration will be cancelled.
  7. Click "Process Payment" (even if the payment is $0) to ensure your exam is booked.
  8. Click on "Exam" on menu item.
  9. Once your exam status is “Active”, click on the Pearson VUE link to schedule, reschedule or cancel your exam
How do I know if I can meet the system requirements for an online proctored exam?

Before scheduling your exam appointment, you will be required to do a systems test to ensure that you are able to proceed with the online test.

The systems test does not detect firewalls and VPNs. Therefore, it is up to you to ensure you are in a FIREWALL & VPN free environment for your exam.

Do not take your exam in a setting with a corporate firewall (including VPN) or alert your Network Administrator to the network configuration requirements. We recommend testing on a personal computer. Work computers generally have more restrictions that may prevent successful delivery.

When can I write the exam?

Appointments are available 24/7. You can book into any open timeslot.

What is the cost of the online proctored exam?

The fees for online proctored exams are found here.

What is the check-in process for online proctored exam?

It’s recommended that you start your check-in 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time. Check-in is an automated process that includes another systems check to make sure that you still have the technical ability to proceed with the exam, ID check, and taking photos of yourself and your environment. If there is a problem with the check-in, you will be routed to a live greeter who can help you rectify any issues. Once you successfully complete the check-in process, you will be routed to the next available proctor who will unlock your exam.

What identification is acceptable?

You are required to present a current government-issued ID with picture. The name on your ID must match the name in your web account profile and in your appointment confirmation email.

Acceptable forms of identification include: driver’s license, passport, military ID, identification card (national/state/province identity card), alien registration card (green card, permanent resident, visa), health card (for Quebec residents only), and government-issued local language ID (not in roman characters and accepted only if issued by the country in which you are testing).

Minors who are under the age of 18 are permitted to present a valid student ID as a form of identification. A minor’s guardian must also present a valid ID and provide verbal consent during the check-in process.

Am I allowed to have my phone, books, calculator, or pencil with me during my exam?

There is a clean desk policy when you write an online proctored exam. You are not allowed to have any items accessible to you. However, your cellphone must be available (but out of immediate reach) in case the proctor needs to contact you. You will be provided with a calculator and whiteboard in the platform. You are not permitted to use your own calculator.

How do I launch my online proctored exam?

To launch your online proctored exam, you must have already registered and scheduled it. If you did and it's soon time for your exam, you can follow the steps below:

  1. Log into your IFSE account
  2. Click on “Exams"
  3. Click on "Exam" on menu item
  4. Click on “Continue” to be redirected to the Pearson VUE system.
  5. Click on your scheduled exam under "Purchased Online Exams".
  6. Click “Begin Exam” and follow the on-screen prompts to complete the check-in process.
  7. Once you have completed the check-in process you will be contacted by a Proctor to begin your exam.
What if I experience technical difficulties at the time of my exam?

Contact Pearson VUE to assist you and if necessary, they will cancel or reschedule your exam if you are unable to proceed.

What happens if I can’t make it to my scheduled exam time?

You must reschedule or cancel your exam before your scheduled exam time or you risk losing any fees you paid, an exam attempt, and you will be charged a missed exam fee. You can log in to the scheduler to change it yourself or contact Pearson VUE for assistance.

Where can I find the calculator and whiteboard on the screen?

During your exam, you will have the option to use a built-in digital whiteboard feature to do scratch work or take notes and the integrated calculator to complete all your calculations.

You can access the whiteboard by clicking on the Scratch Pad icon at the top of your screen. You can get familiar with the whiteboard feature before your exam here.

You can access the calculator by clicking on the calculator icon on top of every question.

Below is a snapshot of the top bar of the screen during your exam session, showing where each button is located:

Physical scratch paper or note boards and calculators are not allowed when taking your exam.

What are the consequences if I break the rules (e.g. bringing in a calculator or scrap paper, leaving the camera view or a third-party enters the camera view)?

Breaking the rules of the exam will lead to the termination of your exam by the proctor as mentioned on the terms and conditions of your purchase. Please ensure you respect the rules at all times during your exam.

What if I experience technical difficulties during my exam?

Communicate with your proctor or if you are disconnected, attempt to reconnect. Contact Pearson VUE to assist you and if necessary, they may need to reschedule your exam if you are unable to proceed.

What happens if I do not show up for my scheduled exam?

You will forfeit any fees you paid, and lose an exam attempt as well as being charged a missed exam fee.

What if I change my mind and want to write a paper-based exam?

Once you register for a computer-based exam, you cannot change the format to paper-based. You may be able to write your computer-based exam in a Pearson VUE testing centre, if there is availability.

After Your Exam
How do I get my exam results?

Exam results for Computer-based Test Centre Proctored and Computer-based Online Proctored exams are available online within 2 business days following the exam if you have no outstanding fees.

Exam results for Online Unproctored exams are available immediately upon submission.

Exam results for Paper-based Proctored exams are available online within 3 to 5 business days if you have no outstanding fees.

When your grade has been released, you can access your exam results by logging into your IFSE account. Once you have logged in:

  • Choose “My IFSE”
  • Choose “Courses”
  • Choose “Show me my Marks for this Course” (this link only appears when your results are available).
I recently completed an IFSE course. Do I receive a CE certificate?

Yes, if your course is eligible for continuing education credits. You can access your CE certificate online 24 hours after you successfully complete your course.

You can access your CE certificate by logging into your IFSE account. Once you have logged in:

  • Choose "CE Certificates".
  • Choose "Print" beside the CE certificate you wish to print.
I recently completed an IFSE course. Do I receive a transcript?

Courses with a formal proctored exam in the Investment & Banking and Exempt Market Programs will have a transcript. A transcript can be used as an official grade document and is available online 24 hours after your grade is posted.

You can access your transcript by logging into your IFSE account. Once you have logged in:

  • Choose "Transcripts".
  • Choose "Print" beside the transcript you wish to print.
Can I have my transcript amended?

Yes, we can make name changes on a transcript. We will require a copy of your valid, government-issued photo ID (with visible signature) indicating the name change emailed or faxed to us. There is no cost to amend a transcript.

I recently completed an IFSE course. Do I receive a diploma?

Courses with a formal proctored exam in the Investment & Banking and Exempt Market Programs will have a diploma. A diploma is a formal document issued by IFSE which can be displayed to signify your successful completion of a course. Once you pass your course, you can request a diploma that will be delivered to you by mail.

Can I have my diploma amended or replaced?

We can make name changes on a diploma. We will require a copy of your valid, government-issued photo ID (with visible signature) indicating the name change emailed or faxed to us.

We can also send you a replacement diploma upon request. Click here for the cost to amend or replace a diploma.

I recently completed the Canadian Deposit Self-Study course. Do I receive a certificate?

Non-member students enrolled in the Canadian Deposit Self-Study course, offered by the Registered Deposit Brokers Association (RDBA), will receive a certificate of achievement upon successful completion of the course and a letter of confirmation to apply for CE credits.  Current members of the RDBA will receive their appropriate designation and a letter of confirmation to apply for CE credits. All course completion documents are issued by RDBA.

Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC)
How do I become registered as a mutual fund dealing representative?

You must first complete your proficiency requirement by passing the Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC) exam. The CIFC is an online self-study course with a formal proctored exam. You have one-year from the date of enrolment to successfully pass the exam. When you are ready for your exam, you can register into an available exam session that is convenient for you.

After you successfully pass your exam, you must be sponsored by a mutual fund dealer to complete the application process.

What is the Web Trainer for CIFC™?

The Web Trainer for CIFCTM is a series of pre-recorded, online tutorials. An instructor takes you through key concepts from the course to help you prepare for your exam. This is an optional product and is available on your desktop immediately after purchase. This product is not refundable.

What is the SeeWhy Learning Review and Practice?

There are 500+ online Key Concept Flash Cards and Exam Prep Questions with detailed answer keys in this optional product. Flash cards are in a simple question & answer format to help you cover a lot of ground quickly. You will be prepared for exam day with the detailed easy-to-understand explanations in the Exam Prep Questions. Some questions also have trainer audio tips to guide you through complex concepts. After purchase, click on the link to access the SeeWhy tools. This product is not refundable.

What is the study guide?

A study guide is a hardcopy book that complements the online course material. It includes summaries of course information and highlights key points and definitions to aid learning. It also includes exercises. Study guides are optional for purchase and you will receive them within seven business days. This product is not refundable.

What is the CIFC Exam Preparation Live Webinar?

A live webinar is real-time training with an IFSE instructor, delivered online. The CIFC Exam Preparation Live Webinar includes six two-hour modules. You will be able to interact with the instructor to get the answers you need to pass the CIFC exam. Sessions are recorded and archived on your student desktop, enabling you to playback the sessions. This product is not refundable.

Do I receive a transcript or diploma?

You will receive an official grade transcript and diploma upon successful completion of the course. Official grade transcripts may be printed online from your desktop after you login. Diplomas will be delivered by mail. For more information, read the FAQs under After your exam.

Life License Qualification Program (LLQP)
How do I become licensed to sell life insurance?

There are several steps you need to take to become licensed to sell life insurance in Canada. View our blog post How do I become a life insurance agent in Canada? to find out how.

How do I become certified through IFSE?

INSURANCE program courses are divided into the following 5 modules:

  • Life insurance
  • Accident and sickness insurance
  • Segregated funds and annuities
  • Ethics and professional practice (common law or civil code)

 

Depending on the license type and jurisdiction, you take the module combination that's right for you. Each module has an online proctored certification exam that requires a minimum grade of 60% for successful completion. You must pass all modular exams in order for IFSE to certify you.

For example, if you want to be certified for LLQP (common law), you must pass all the following modular exams before IFSE will certify you to write the provincial exams:

  • Life insurance exam
  • Accident and sickness insurance exam
  • Segregated funds and annuities exam
  • Ethics and professional practice (common law) exam
What is the Canadian Insurance Participant Registry (CIPR)?

CIPR is a national registry for participants in the insurance industry. After you register for an insurance course, you must create a CIPR profile and provide IFSE with your CIPR number. Once you pass all your certification exams, IFSE will update your information on CIPR in order for you to register for your provincial licensing exams. You are responsible for ensuring your legal name is correctly reflected on your CIPR profile.

For the LLQP and A&S courses, what are the printed textbooks?

This optional product is a hardcopy version of the CISRO/OCRA manuals. The number of books you will receive depends on the course.

Course No. of books
LLQP (common law) 4
LLQP (civil code) 4
LLQP (Canada) 5
A&S (common law) 2
A&S (civil code) 2
A&S (Canada) 3

Books are delivered within five to seven business days of ordering. This product is not refundable.

For the LLQP and A&S courses, what are the study guides?

Study guides are available online as part of your course registration. However, you have the option to purchase them in a hardcopy book format. The number of books you will receive depends on the course.

Course No. of books
LLQP (common law) 4
LLQP (civil code) 4
LLQP (Canada) 5
A&S (common law) 2
A&S (civil code) 2
A&S (Canada) 3

Books are delivered within five to seven business days of ordering. This product is not refundable.

For the LLQP and A&S courses, what are the SeeWhy Learning online study tools?

There are a variety of online study tools available to help you study for your LLQP or A&S course. They include study guides, audio lessons, practice exams, quizzes and flash cards. For more information, view the LLQP and A&S course pages.

What happens when I pass all my modular certification exams?

If you are enrolled in an Insurance program course, you will be certified on the Canadian Insurance Participant Registry (CIPR) upon successful completion of the course. Certification dates are posted onto the CIPR system one business day after passing all modular exam in your course. You are responsible for ensuring your legal name is correctly reflected on your CIPR profile.

How do I book my LLQP provincial licensing exams?

Please contact your provincial Insurance Council to register for the LLQP Provincial Licensing exams.

How long after I pass all my modular exams do I have to pass my provincial licensing exams?

Your certification on the CIPR system is valid for a one-year period from the date you pass the final modular exam in your course. In general, you will have one year to pass all your modular exams. Please check your eligibility for licensing period with your provincial regulator.

How do I use the tablet during my LLQP provincial licensing exams?

You will be given a tablet to use when you attend your LLQP provincial licensing exams. Watch this video on how to use the tablet. Click here to view.

Is there a fee to write the modular online proctored exams?

Yes. Up to a maximum of 4 attempts for per module.

Please see the table below:

Situation Cost
Exam Registration - First Attempt $12.50
Exam Rewrite $12.50
How do I purchase an IFSE eTest Online Proctored Exam?

You will need to purchase your IFSE eTest through IFSE’s learning platform using the exam booking feature:

To purchase the exam, please follow the steps below:

  • Log into your IFSE account
  • From the menu bar, click on “MY IFSE”and then “EXAMS”
  • Choose “Register for IFSE eTest Online Proctor Exam”
  • Review and Accept the “Exam Terms and Conditions
  • Enter your payment information when prompted by the system
  • The system will then process your payment

 

After you have followed the steps above, please note it can take up to 5 minutes for your access to the testing website to change from “PENDING” to “ACTIVE.”

Once your status becomes ACTIVE, you will be able to take your modular exam. To do so, please follow these instructions:

  • From the menu bar, click on “MY IFSE”and then “EXAMS”
  • Click on “IFSE eTest Online Proctor Exam”
  • Click on “ONLINE Proctor Exam Platform”
  • You will be transferred to the testing platform. Click START to being your IFSE eTest
How many questions are on the modular online proctored exams?
Module Number of Exam Questions
Life Insurance 30
Accident and Sickness Insurance 30
Segregated Funds and Annuities 30
Ethics and Professional Practice (Common Law) 20
Ethics and Professional Practice (Civil Code) 20
Exempt Market Proficiency Course (EMP)
How do I become registered as an exempt market dealing representative?

You must first complete your proficiency requirement by passing the Exempt Market Proficiency Course (EMP) exam. The EMP is an online self-study course with a formal proctored exam. You have one-year from the date of enrolment to successfully pass the exam. When you are ready for your exam, you can register into an available exam session that is convenient for you.

After you successfully pass your exam, you must be sponsored by an exempt market dealer to complete the application process.

How do I register for my EMP exam?

The EMP exam is offered as a computer-based test through our partner, Pearson VUE. For information about computer-based tests, check out the FAQs under Taking a computer-based exam.

Do I receive a transcript or diploma? 

You will receive an official grade transcript and diploma upon successful completion of the course. Official grade transcripts may be printed online from your desktop after you login. Diplomas will be delivered by mail. For more information, read the FAQs under After your exam.

Technical questions
What are the technical requirements for using this website?

Click here to download our IFSE Technical Requirements Guide.

How do I know if my system can login to the live webinar?

IFSE uses Cisco WebEx for our Live Webinars. To test your system in advance, please visit the WebEx site and follow the instructions.

Terms and definitions
What is an Academic Partner?

IFSE has a network of Academic Partners across Canada. Academic Partners are colleges and universities which provide IFSE courses in a classroom setting. Click on Academic Partners to find one near you.

What does “IFIC” stand for?

IFIC is the Investment Funds Institute of Canada, a trade association dedicated to enhancing the integrity and growth of the investment funds industry in Canada. IFSE Institute is wholly owned by IFIC. You can find more information about IFIC at www.ific.ca.

What is a profile?

Your profile, also referred to as your "student profile," is information retained on IFSE’s system that relates specifically to you. It starts with the information you provided when you signed up with us and expands as you perform activities, such as enroll in a course, schedule an exam, make a payment and access your grades.

What is a proctor?

A proctor is a person responsible for overseeing and monitoring an exam. He or she is unable to answer any questions about the exam or your status with IFSE. His or her job is strictly to invigilate the exam.

What is self-study?

Self-study means that you set your own timetable for completing lessons and study at your own pace. All courses must, however, be completed within the allotted timeframe.

What are printed text materials or textbooks?

Printed text materials or textbooks are hardcopy versions of the online course material. They are optional to purchase and take between five to seven business days to be delivered. They do not include any interactive components (i.e., exercises, quizzes, case study and practice exam) from the online course. Instead, you are instructed to go online to complete those elements. This product is not refundable.

Refunds
Am I entitled to a refund if I cancel my course?

You will be entitled to a partial refund of your course enrolment fees if you cancel your online course within 15 calendar days of enrolling (including the registration date) or your paper-based course within 30 calendar days of enrolling (including the registration date). IFSE charges a $75 (plus tax) administration fee on all eligible course cancellations.

You are not eligible for a refund if you have completed an exam attempt.

Note: Courses in the Insurance or Continuing Education programs are not eligible for refunds. In addition,  IFSE courses and products are non-transferrable.

Am I entitled to a refund if I return my book (e.g., study guide, printed textbook, etc.)?

No, optional printed materials are non-refundable.

Am I entitled to a refund for my SeeWhy Learning products?

No, SeeWhy Learning products are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

Am I entitled to a refund for my Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC) Exam Preparation Live Webinar?

No, optional products are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

Am I entitled to a refund for my Web Trainer for CIFC™?

No, optional products are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

Case Studies

Are you looking to start or advance your career in the financial services industry but are unsure of what that may involve? The following case studies will give you a taste of what it’s like to pursue – and be successful in – certain financial services careers.

 Jennifer Miller 

Jennifer Miller is an administrative assistant with SurePath Group, a financial advisory and insurance practice located in Red Deer, Alberta. Already responsible for a high volume of back office support in her firm’s investment and insurance businesses, Jennifer has been looking to transition to a travel insurance agent role. The completion of IFSE’s Accident and Sickness Insurance (A&S) course was a vital component in this new step in her career.

 

Jennifer knew some of what to expect from the course; several colleagues on the insurance side of the practice had enthusiastically recommended the A&S course to her. While she already had a solid foundation of experience in investments and financial planning, Jennifer found the A&S course particularly useful in providing new insights into this specialized area.

The subject matter of the A&S course is deep and detailed, but Jennifer found that it fit very well into her existing work and family life. Jennifer reports that by committing herself to cover one chapter a week, plus practice quizzes and practice tests, she was able to fit her A&S studies seamlessly into her busy schedule, which includes her full-time job and two school-aged children.

How has the A&S course helped Jennifer in her day-to-day job?

“It was interesting and practical to learn about all the groups, programs and individual benefit types in the insurance industry. The A&S learnings were very useful to me in my changing role and in my own career progress. If I were to look again into expanding my role, I’d definitely go with IFSE.”

Advice from Jennifer for other students taking the A&S course

“I’d advise them to study! Even though the exam’s open book, I found I needed to know the material. You don’t want to spend an hour during the exam looking up the answer. I met a couple of people at my exam who had already failed the previous day, so you don’t want to spend your time taking the exam multiple times.”

 Dallas Skoda 

Dallas Skoda works in a client-facing administrative role for Braun Financial Services Ltd., a financial planning firm located in New Westminster, British Columbia. He’s well on his way to becoming a certified financial planner, and says IFSE’s Life License Qualification Program (LLQP) has been a big part of fulfilling that goal.

 

Dallas’s work mainly involves the segregated fund, life insurance and disability insurance markets, and he’s currently shadowing a senior advisor to learn how to build up his own book of business. IFSE’s online LLQP came highly recommended to him by colleagues.

Although Dallas already came into the LLQP with a professional and educational background in finance, he found that the LLQP further expanded his existing expertise. Not only did Dallas learn about the intricacies of the insurance industry, the LLQP gave him the knowledge base to be able to convey complex information easily to clients.

How has the LLQP helped Dallas in his day-to-day job?

“The program gave me a better handle on how to explain technically oriented subjects, such as how some insurance products work, to clients. So instead of giving them a technical definition, which no client really has the knowledge of, background in or inclination to even listen to, the LLQP helped me explain these matters to someone who doesn’t know anything about finance.”

Advice from Dallas for other students taking the LLQP

“Get a background in finance first. I have a degree in finance, but anything helps. I would suggest even a one-year certificate or diploma. There were a lot of things in the LLQP in which it helps to have somewhat of a background on.”

 Ella Arsenault 

Ella Arsenault is a Branch Manager and Compliance Officer at Excel Private Wealth. While she had already been a Branch Manager prior to taking the Officers’, Partners’, and Directors’ Course (OPD), she was looking to expand her responsibilities. Ella viewed the OPD as the next logical career step, since the course would allow her to gain capabilities related to compliance – an area of growing importance in financial services.

 

The OPD helped her reach her goals, as she became qualified for the Compliance Officer role and now serves as backup to the company’s Chief Compliance Officer

Ella chose the OPD because of IFSE’s reputation as a leading education provider. She had taken IFSE courses before – namely the Canadian Investment Funds Course, Exempt Market Proficiency Course and Branch Managers’ Examination Course – so she was familiar with IFSE’s ease of registration, user-friendly course format and “study at your own pace” flexibility.

When considering her experience with the OPD, Ella thought all the content was valuable and equipped her with the knowledge to succeed in compliance. Learning about suitability rules, “Know Your Client” requirements and risk management procedures helped her immediately in her compliance duties. She found the OPD to be well planned and comprehensive. The course helped her achieve the next level of responsibility and opened the door for future career advancement.

How has the OPD helped Ella in her day-to-day job?

“From a compliance perspective, I understand the rules and regulations as they pertain to the client-advisor relationship, and this knowledge is crucial in my role. As an example, when we were revising certain client information forms, I knew exactly what sections were needed and what details we had to gather from clients. This made the process more efficient and resulted in accurate, compliant forms.”

What advice does Ella have for other students taking the OPD?

“Be sure to do the test questions, as they help you learn the material. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t just guess because you’ll likely be wrong. Go back to the course content, find the right answer and then return to the test to reinforce your learning. Otherwise, both the right and wrong answers could pop into your head at the exam, since your mind will recall having chosen both answers during the practice test.”

 Rosemary Barber 

Rosemary Barber is an Administrative Assistant at Les Associés Redsell-Séguin & Associates, IPC Investment Corporation. While she had been productive in her position, she knew she could contribute even more to the team. One day, she was discussing professional training with a colleague and asked her which course she had taken to become a Licensed Assistant. Rosemary’s colleague directed her to IFSE’s Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC).

 

Rosemary decided to take the CIFC since she knew that once she became licensed, she would be able to accomplish much more in her role at work. She also intends to take the Branch Managers’ Examination Course to help her advance further in her financial services career.

When considering her experience with the CIFC, Rosemary found that the interactive testing throughout the online course greatly assisted her in identifying areas to which she needed to pay added attention before proceeding to the next component. The testing helped her learn the course content more thoroughly and better prepare for the exam.

Having successfully completed the CIFC, Rosemary became a Licensed Assistant and has now expanded on her responsibilities. For instance, when a representative is away from the office and a client calls looking for assistance, she is better able to help with their needs.

How has the CIFC helped Rosemary in her day-to-day job?

“Recently, I assisted several clients while a representative in our office was on vacation, so we were able to maintain a high level of service in a seamless manner, contributing to continued client satisfaction. This would not have been possible if I hadn’t taken the CIFC.”

What advice does Rosemary have for other students taking the CIFC?

“I would recommend doing plenty of practice exam questions. I found the Study Guide and also the CIFC Exam Preparation Live Webinar recordings to be extremely helpful. Hearing the instructor on the webinar go through each question and answer was very beneficial.”

 George Donnery 

George Donnery is a Senior Customer Service Representative at CIBC. Having been in customer service for several years, first in the U.K. and then in Canada, he decided he was ready to take his career forward and work towards a more financial advisory role.

That’s when he turned to IFSE for training and education that could help him reach his career goals.

 

He took the Canadian Investment Funds Course (CIFC) and found it to be comprehensive, effectively covering all aspects of the Canadian financial environment. George believes the course offered excellent value as his company benefits from partnership pricing with IFSE.

When considering his experience with the CIFC, George cites the video tutorials (Web Trainer for CIFC™) as being very helpful. He states that not only were the tutorials informative, but they also presented the information clearly, breaking down the material in an efficient manner and helping him understand the content quickly.

Having successfully completed the CIFC, he started exploring other positions within his company. He advanced from being a Customer Service Representative to his current senior role. George envisions transitioning into a sales position down the road.

How has the CIFC helped George in his day-to-day job?

“In my role I don’t advise or discuss investing specifics with clients, but I can provide general information. For instance, I spoke to a client about RRSPs. She’s in her 20s and wasn’t focused at all on retirement savings, so we discussed the benefits of starting young and building a strong foundation for her future. I also informed her about the LLP and HBP as potential ways to help finance education and home buying, respectively, and how RRSP funds can play a role, if needed. I made the client think about her financial needs for now and in the future, as well as the value of an RRSP.”

What advice does George have for other students taking the CIFC?

“I suggest that students take advantage of all the ways that the course facilitates learning (e.g., videos, tutorials, online content) to broaden and deepen their understanding of the course materials.”

 David Berliner and Raphael Bouskila 

In 2013, David Berliner (CEO) and Raphael Bouskila (President) co-founded an online investment platform for clean energy projects such as solar energy and efficiency installations.

Their company’s platform pools the money of predominantly institutional and accredited individual investors who seek access to investment opportunities in such projects that align with their community and environmental values.

 

Since David and Raphael needed registration as dealing representatives of an exempt market dealer, they fulfilled the regulatory requirement by completing IFSE’s Exempt Market Proficiency Course (EMP). They found the course to be extremely valuable because the content was straightforward and focused precisely on the areas they needed. Raphael, who also completed IFSE’s Officers’, Partners’, and Directors’ Course (OPD), calls the EMP “the industrystandard course in our field.”

When considering their experience with the EMP, Raphael and David found the entire learning process to be practical and targeted. For instance, the sections that covered products like principal-protected notes and flow-through shares served to expand their minds to the possibilities of what financing-related products their company could offer its investors.

Completing the EMP was critical for David and Raphael when launching their “impact investing” company. They embrace going beyond minimum compliance requirements as they value taking a careful approach to running their business in order to protect investors’ capital.

How has the EMP helped Raphael and David in their day-to-day job?

“ We spend all day in the exempt market world, so everything we’ve learned is useful. For example, when we launched our Green Bond, we considered all the possible types of qualified investors so we could better grasp the potential market. Ultimately, we are committed to meeting our clients’ interests, and what we’ve learned from the EMP helps us achieve that.”

What advice do David and Raphael have for other students taking the EMP?

“ Use the course content to put compliance rules into perspective. When you consider the course material in context of exempt markets, you’ll better understand important concepts such as the motivation behind the regulatory requirements (i.e., protecting the crucial relationship between issuer, investor and dealer).”

 Jatinder Bajwa 

Jatinder Bajwa is a Banking Centre Leader (also known as a Branch Manager) at CIBC. As he was streamed at the bank to become a Banking Centre Leader, Jatinder proactively turned to IFSE before his promotion and took the required Branch Managers’ Examination Course (BM).

He chose IFSE to fulfill his training needs because his employer highly recommended the BM. Jatinder also consulted with colleagues who had competed the course and he received positive feedback about their experience.

 

Jatinder enrolled in the BM and soon discovered why the course is highly regarded. The content was well organized and easy to understand, equipping him with all of the requisite knowledge for his new position and expanded responsibilities.

When considering his experience with the BM, Jatinder found that the risk management material was invaluable. He learned how to mitigate (and, wherever possible, avoid) risk from both the bank’s and the client’s perspective. Jatinder also views the section on effective supervision as extremely practical, since he must often coach sales staff on determining client suitability and providing financial advice.

Having been the preferred candidate for an opening as Banking Centre Leader, Jatinder met all of the requirements in advance, with the BM being an important component.

How has the BM helped Jatinder in his day-to-day job?

“Recently, our banking centre underwent an internal process assessment. Although such audits are standard for us, it can be stressful if you don’t know what to expect. Having taken the BM, I understood the concepts and was able to coach my staff (and prepare myself!) for the audit interviews. The assessment went smoothly and my team appreciated my help.”

What advice does Jatinder have for other students taking the BM?

“Preparation is key, learning all of the concepts inside out. Also try to apply the course content to your job so it becomes relevant and not just theoretical. It’s also great that IFSE provides ongoing access to your course, even after you’ve completed it, so go back to the content when needed. I still refer to it now when certain questions arise.”