Current IFC exam structure
CSI currently lists one proctored examination, 100 multiple-choice questions, a three-hour duration, three attempts allowed and a 60% passing grade. CSI also lists an estimated 90–140 hours of study.
View the current official CSI IFC Exam & Credits page →
Current topic weightings
| Exam topic | Weighting |
|---|---|
| Introduction to the Mutual Funds Marketplace | 13% |
| The Know Your Client Communication Process | 19% |
| Understanding Investment Products and Portfolios | 18% |
| The Modern Mutual Fund | 5% |
| Analysis of Mutual Funds | 10% |
| Understanding Alternative Managed Products | 3% |
| Evaluating and Selecting Mutual Funds | 16% |
| Ethics, Compliance, and Mutual Fund Regulation | 16% |
How long is the IFIC / IFC exam?
CSI currently allows 3 hours for 100 multiple-choice questions on the Investment Funds in Canada (IFC) exam. That is an average of 1 minute 48 seconds per question. The passing grade is 60%. To practise your pace, try our free IFIC practice test before taking a full mock exam.
Which IFC exam chapters have the highest weightage?
According to CSI's current exam blueprint, the largest topic weights are Know Your Client Communication Process (19%), Understanding Investment Products and Portfolios (18%), Evaluating and Selecting Mutual Funds (16%), and Ethics, Compliance, and Mutual Fund Regulation (16%). Use the full weighting table above alongside chapter practice questions to plan revision.
What should I study before my IFC exam?
Build the concepts first, then test client suitability scenarios, product comparisons, calculations and timed questions. Our calculation practice and case studies help you apply what you have learned. Always check CSI's current exam information for updates.
What the weighting means for your study plan
Weighting is useful for allocating time, but it should not become an excuse to ignore smaller areas. High-weight topics deserve repeated practice, while low-weight topics can still produce questions that separate a pass from a near miss.
How IFICprep uses the blueprint
IFICprep separates practice into chapter questions, calculation work, case studies, Memory Retainer flashcards, Concept Vault review and mock exams. The goal is to move from topic understanding to mixed application rather than relying on passive reading.
How to prepare for the Investment Funds in Canada exam
A useful IFC exam-preparation sequence is to understand the concepts, apply them in questions and client scenarios, and then move to mixed practice under exam-like conditions.
Learn the concepts
Use the exam guide and chapter review to identify areas that need stronger understanding rather than relying on memorization alone.
Practise application
Work through IFIC practice questions, calculation questions and case studies to test how well you can use the material.
Simulate the exam
Use IFIC mock exams after topic practice to expose weak areas and improve pacing.
Exam structure and requirements can change. Confirm current Investment Funds in Canada exam information with CSI.