NISM Series XIII: Common Derivatives Certification – Complete Guide 2025

1. Introduction

The NISM Series XIII: Common Derivatives Certification Examination is an essential credential for professionals dealing in equity and currency derivatives in India’s financial markets.
This certification is conducted by the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) — an educational institution established by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to promote investor education and develop skilled financial professionals.

The exam is designed to ensure that individuals working in the derivatives market understand the concepts, strategies, trading mechanisms, and regulatory framework related to derivative products.

It is particularly important for:

• Finance professionals working with brokers, investment firms, and trading houses,
• Students aspiring to build a career in capital markets, and
• Beginners and traders who want to gain official recognition of their knowledge.

To make preparation easier, CrackCertify.in offers comprehensive online mock tests, expert study notes, and video-based learning courses to help aspirants clear the NISM Series XIII exam with confidence.

2. About the NISM Series XIII: Common Derivatives Certification

Purpose of the Exam

The NISM Series XIII Certification aims to equip candidates with:

• An understanding of derivative instruments such as futures and options.
• Knowledge of trading, clearing, and settlement mechanisms.
• Awareness of risk management, margin systems, and regulatory compliance for derivatives trading.

Who Should Take It

This certification is ideal for:

• Derivative dealers, sub-brokers, and analysts.
• Portfolio managers, traders, and compliance officers.
• Students or fresh graduates looking to start a career in equity, currency, or commodities derivatives.

Benefits of Certification

• Regulatory recognition by SEBI for market participants.
• Enhanced credibility for professionals in brokerage, investment, and trading roles.
• Career growth opportunities in trading desks, investment advisory, and risk management.
• Comprehensive understanding of one of the most dynamic segments of financial markets.

3. Exam Highlights (Quick Facts Table)

Particulars	Details
Exam Name	NISM Series XIII: Common Derivatives Certification Examination
Conducted by	National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM), under SEBI
Mode of Exam	Online, at NISM-authorized test centres
Number of Questions	100
Maximum Marks	100
Passing Marks	60% (i.e., 60 marks)
Negative Marking	25% for each wrong answer
Exam Duration	2 hours (120 minutes)
Exam Fees	₹1,500 (subject to revision by NISM)
Certificate Validity	3 years from the date of passing

4. Eligibility Criteria

Minimum Qualification

There are no formal educational prerequisites, but a background in finance, commerce, or economics is highly beneficial. Candidates must be comfortable with basic mathematical and financial concepts.

Who Can Apply

• Students pursuing commerce or management studies.
• Finance professionals working with brokers, traders, or investment firms.
• Retail investors and traders interested in derivatives trading.
• Compliance and back-office staff involved in derivatives operations.

5. Syllabus & Topics Covered

The NISM Series XIII syllabus focuses on conceptual clarity and practical understanding of derivatives.

Topic-Wise Syllabus

1. Introduction to Derivatives
• Basic concepts, evolution, and role in risk management.
• Types: Futures, Options, and Swaps.
2. Understanding Futures Contracts
• Pricing, payoff structures, and arbitrage opportunities.
• Margining, settlement, and mark-to-market processes.
3. Understanding Options Contracts
• Terminology, types, and payoffs.
• Option pricing models and Greeks.
4. Trading Strategies Using Derivatives
• Hedging, speculation, and arbitrage strategies.
• Spreads and combinations.
5. Clearing, Settlement, and Risk Management
• Role of clearing corporations.
• Margin systems and position limits.
6. Regulatory Framework and SEBI Guidelines
• SEBI regulations for derivatives.
• Investor protection, code of conduct, and compliance requirements.

Important Focus Areas

• Derivative pricing and valuation.
• Risk management systems.
• Option strategies and payoff diagrams.
• SEBI regulatory framework.

CrackCertify.in covers each topic through structured study materials, chapter-wise tests, and full-length mock exams, ensuring a complete understanding of the subject.

6. Exam Pattern

• Format: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs).
• Total Questions: 100.
• Marks: 100.
• Duration: 2 hours.
• Passing Score: 60%.
• Negative Marking: 25%.

Difficulty Level

The exam is of moderate difficulty, testing conceptual clarity and numerical aptitude. Candidates must focus on formulas, payoff calculations, and scenario-based questions.

Time Management Tips

• Divide time equally: 1 minute per question.
• Attempt easy questions first.
• Avoid excessive calculations — use approximation when possible.

Online Exam Procedure

Candidates appear at authorized test centres, complete the computer-based test, and receive results immediately after submission.

7. Registration Process

Follow these simple steps to register for the NISM Series XIII Exam:

1. Visit the official website: https://certifications.nism.ac.in.
2. Click on Register / Sign Up to create a new account.
3. Log in and select Series XIII: Common Derivatives Certification Exam.
4. Choose your exam centre, date, and time slot.
5. Pay the exam fee (₹1,500) online.
6. Download the admit card after successful payment.
7. Carry valid ID proof on exam day.

CrackCertify.in provides practice tests that replicate the actual exam format, helping candidates build speed, accuracy, and confidence before the final test.

8. Course Details (CrackCertify Offerings)

CrackCertify offers a complete learning ecosystem for NISM Series XIII aspirants:

• 🎓 Online Video Lectures – Concept-wise explanations by industry experts.
• 📘 Study Materials (PDF + Notes) – Covers every topic of the official syllabus.
• 🧩 Full-Length Mock Tests – Practice real-exam simulation tests.
• 📊 Instant Performance Analytics – Review strengths and weaknesses.
• 💰 Affordable Lifetime Access – Study anytime, anywhere without limits.

9. Fees Structure

Component	Amount (INR)	Remarks
Official NISM Exam Fee	₹1,500	Payable to NISM during registration
CrackCertify Course (with Notes)	₹799	Full syllabus + chapter quizzes
CrackCertify Combo (Course + Mock Tests)	₹1,199	Special discounted package

10. Career & Job Prospects

The NISM Series XIII Certification opens up numerous opportunities in the derivatives and capital market sector.

Popular Job Roles

• Derivative Dealer / Analyst
• Equity or Commodity Trader
• Risk Management Executive
• Portfolio Analyst
• Compliance Officer

Industries That Value This Certification

• Stockbroking Firms
• Investment Banks and NBFCs
• Asset Management Companies (AMCs)
• Hedge Funds and Trading Desks

Career Benefits

• Recognition as a qualified derivatives professional.
• Faster promotions and higher salary prospects.
• Opportunities in both domestic and global trading firms.
• Typical salary range: ₹3–7 LPA (freshers) and up to ₹12 LPA (experienced professionals).

11. Preparation Tips

• Understand Concepts First: Focus on the logic behind futures and options.
• Make Short Notes: Summarize key formulas and definitions.
• Practice Mock Tests: Identify weak areas and improve accuracy.
• Revise Regularly: Revisit SEBI regulations and trading mechanisms.
• Time Practice: Simulate real exam conditions before attempting the actual test.

CrackCertify’s mock tests and analytics dashboard help you master question patterns and time management, giving you an edge on exam day.

12. FAQs

Q1. Who should take the NISM Series XIII Exam?
Anyone involved or interested in derivatives trading, compliance, or investment roles.

Q2. What is the validity of the certificate?
The certification is valid for 3 years from the date of passing.

Q3. Can I reattempt the exam if I fail?
Yes, candidates can re-register and retake the exam by paying the exam fee again.

Q4. Is there negative marking?
Yes, 25% of the marks assigned to the question are deducted for wrong answers.

Q5. How much time is required for preparation?
With focused study and mock practice, 3–4 weeks are usually sufficient.

Q6. Are CrackCertify mock tests similar to the real exam?
Yes. They are designed to simulate the actual NISM exam pattern and difficulty.

13. Conclusion

The NISM Series XIII: Common Derivatives Certification is a valuable credential for anyone aspiring to excel in India’s financial markets. It demonstrates your understanding of derivative products, trading strategies, and SEBI regulations, making you a credible and skilled market professional.

Start your preparation today with CrackCertify’s expert-led courses, detailed study notes, and real-exam mock tests — the ultimate toolkit for NISM success.

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