Before you book the NISM Series XV Research Analyst exam, it helps to know the exact numbers — passing marks, fees, negative marking and certificate validity. This 2026 reference answers all of them in one place.
NISM Series XV passing marks
The NISM Series XV passing mark is 60% — you need 60 out of 100 marks to clear the exam. There is 25% negative marking, so every wrong answer deducts 0.25 marks. This makes accuracy as important as knowledge.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total marks | 100 |
| Passing marks | 60 (60%) |
| Negative marking | 25% (−0.25 per wrong answer) |
| Number of questions | 100 |
| Duration | 2 hours |
NISM Series XV exam fees
The NISM XV exam fee is approximately ₹1,500 plus applicable GST, paid online when you register on the NISM certification portal. The fee covers one attempt. If you do not clear the exam, you must register and pay again for a re-attempt.
How to register for the NISM Series XV exam
- Visit the official NISM certifications portal (certifications.nism.ac.in).
- Register / log in and complete your profile and KYC details.
- Select Series XV – Research Analyst Certification Examination.
- Pick a test centre, date and time slot based on availability.
- Pay the exam fee online.
- Download the admit card; carry a government photo ID to the centre.
The exam is computer-based and results are usually shown immediately after you submit.
NISM Series XV certificate validity
The NISM Series XV certificate is valid for 3 years from the date you pass the exam. To stay certified beyond that, you must renew before expiry.
How to renew the NISM Series XV certification
- Re-examination: Pass the NISM Series XV exam again before your current certificate expires, or
- CPE (Continuing Professional Education): Complete the prescribed CPE programme for Research Analysts within the validity period.
Renewing before expiry is important — if your certificate lapses, you may need to re-take the full exam.
What you need on exam day
- A valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, PAN, passport, driving licence).
- Your admit card (printed or digital, as specified).
- Arrive 30 minutes early for verification.
Calculators are provided on-screen; you cannot carry your own electronic devices into the test hall.
How hard is the NISM Series XV exam?
The exam is moderately difficult — manageable with focused preparation. The challenge comes from the breadth of the syllabus and the negative marking, not from extreme conceptual depth. Candidates who practise extensively and score 70%+ in mock tests clear it comfortably.
Practise free on ScoreSetu: 620 NISM XV questions with explanations, plus timed mock exams that mirror the real 100-question, 2-hour format and 60% pass mark.
Quick recap
- Passing marks: 60% (60/100), 25% negative marking.
- Fees: ~₹1,500 + GST per attempt.
- Validity: 3 years, renewable via re-exam or CPE.
- Format: 100 questions, 2 hours, computer-based.
Know the numbers, prepare with real practice, and walk into the NISM Research Analyst exam with confidence.