Regulatory Exam Update

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The dreaded DOFA (Date of First Appointment) deadline is looming for all those people appointed between 30 June and 31 December 2012, and who have not yet successfully completed their Level 1 Regulatory examinations.

You have until 30 June 2015 by which to do so.

While it sounds light years away, please bear the following in mind:

  • Not everyone passes at the first attempt. You should leave yourself ample time to write again before the deadline, in case this happens.
  • Be wary of possible changes to legislation in the next few months which may have an impact on your preparation. Last year, changes to the FAIS Act were incorporated in the exam questions, which led to candidates having to either write within about a month, or incorporate the amended legislation in their study material.
  • As the deadline draws nearer, the stress increases. Getting it behind you will take a big load off your shoulders, and help you focus on your primary task.
  • Make sure that you are ready, then write with confidence to do well, rather than simply try not to fail.

Daily RE Questions

1 What exam must I write?
Both the RE5 and RE1 are Level One exams. RE5 is for Representatives and RE1 for Key Individuals. The RE3 exam is for licence category II candidates.
2 How much does it cost?
The FSB determines the fee. Currently it costs R1050 per exam, also in the case of a re-write.
3 What preparation material is available?
Fully updated resources are available for those requiring access to the legislation applicable to the regulatory examinations:
Please make sure that you first read the FSB’s Preparation Guide to make sure you follow the right process in preparing. Page seven includes a recent amendment to guide candidates in studying in the correct manner.
Click on the following highlighted sections to download the relevant updated Inseta learning material for key individuals, RE 1, and representatives, RE 5.
LexisNexis provides a “Legislation Handbook” together with a “Preparation Guide” containing the qualifying criteria, with a link to the relevant legislation.
The Juta FAIS Pocket Statutes also contains a CD with a comprehensive list of updated supplementary legislative material for reference purposes.
The DVD of the FSB’s telematics broadcast on the RE 1 and RE 5 provides a good introduction and overview, and can also be ordered online.
4 Where can I write?
Go to: http://www.faisexam.co.za/show_venues
5 What dates are available?
Go to: http://www.faisexam.co.za/view_schedule
6 What training is available?
As an Exam body we are not allowed to recommend companies that offer face-to-face Regulatory exam classes. You can try Google for someone in your area.
Bear in mind that this exam tests your knowledge about the laws applicable to the provision of financial advice and intermediary services. The questions are based on very specific qualifying criteria set out in the FSB preparation guide. Any training that does not have this as a basis will not prepare you properly for the exam. Do your own research and don’t just accept what others say.
7 Where can I buy old question papers?
There are no genuine “old question papers” available. Be very careful when buying such preparation aids as some of those on offer are not in line with the high standard prevailing in the actual exams and often lead to a false sense of knowledge which is sadly exposed when confronted by the actual exam. Follow the guidelines provided in the FSB Preparation Guide and you are far more likely to achieve success.

RE Schedules, Venues and Registration

Registration page