One of the biggest concerns among candidates is not the exam itself, but the process surrounding it. From enrollment approvals to video-watching rules and certificate delays, confusion often arises due to a lack of clarity. This blog explains the complete NISM XV-B journey step by step.
Step 1: Renewal Intimation from NISM
Candidates receive an email informing them that their certification is approaching expiry. This email includes:
- Renewal instructions
- Enrollment link
- Basic eligibility details
It is advisable to check spam and junk folders regularly.
Step 2: Enrollment & Verification
Once you apply:
- NISM verifies your previous NISM XV certification
- Approval typically takes 2–5 working days
After approval, the XV-B option becomes active on your dashboard.
Step 3: Fee Payment & Exam Scheduling
- Exam Fee: ₹2,500
- Candidates can select a convenient exam date
Scheduling flexibility allows professionals to plan around work commitments.
Step 4: Access to Mandatory Learning Content
After scheduling:
- Login credentials are shared
- Access is granted to:
a) 13–14 video lectures
b) Downloadable slide material
These materials are accessible for seven days.
Step 5: Mandatory Video Viewing Rules
Candidates must:
- Watch each video completely
- Avoid pausing midway
- Remain visible on camera
- Maintain minimal movement
AI-based monitoring ensures compliance.
Step 6: Exam Day Experience
Before the exam:
- Room scan is required
- Camera and microphone must be enabled
During the exam:
a) Continuous monitoring
b) No external help allowed
Violations may lead to automatic submission.
Certificate Generation Timeline. Unlike regular NISM exams:
- Certificates are not issued immediately
- Processing takes 10–20 working days
Delays are normal and system-driven.
1. Understanding the AI-Proctored Nature of the NISM XV-B Exam
The NISM XV-B exam uses an AI-based remote proctoring system that continuously monitors the candidate throughout:
- Mandatory video lecture viewing
- The actual examination
The AI system tracks:
- Facial visibility and eye movement
- Head and hand movement
- Background noise and speech
- Presence of another person in the room
- Screen activity and running applications
- Internet stability and camera feed
There is no human invigilator to give warnings or explanations. Any violation detected by the system can lead to immediate consequences, making rule awareness extremely important.
2. Technical Preparation – Mandatory Do’s
Candidates must ensure the following before starting the process:
- Use a personal laptop or desktop computer
- Avoid office laptops with restricted software
- Ensure webcam, microphone, and speakers are working
- Keep the laptop plugged into power at all times
- Use an updated version of the Google Chrome browser
Mobile phones, tablets, or shared devices are not recommended and may cause technical issues.
3. Internet & Power Stability: A stable connection is critical:
- Prefer high-speed broadband or fibre internet
- Avoid mobile hotspots unless extremely reliable
- Conduct an internet speed test in advance
- Ensure power backup or sufficient battery charge
If the internet disconnects during the exam, the system may auto-submit the paper, and the exam fee is non-refundable.
4. Exam Environment Setup – Do’s to Follow Strictly
The exam environment should closely resemble a secure examination centre.
4.1 Ideal Exam Environment
- Sit in a quiet, enclosed room
- Lock the door if possible
- Inform family members or roommates in advance
- Ensure no one enters the room during videos or exams
- Keep the desk clean and clutter-free
4.2 Items to Remove from the Desk
- Books and notebooks
- Loose papers
- Mobile phones and smart devices
- Extra laptops or screens
Even accidental disturbances can be flagged by the AI system.
5. Mandatory Video Lecture Rules:
All official NISM video lectures must be watched before the exam becomes active.
5.1 Do’s While Watching Videos
- Watch each video from beginning to end
- Maintain a steady sitting posture
- Keep your face fully visible
- Maintain eye contact with the screen
- Stay within the camera frame
5.2 Don’ts While Watching Videos
- Do not pause videos midway
- Do not leave the seat during videos
- Do not talk, read aloud, or take calls
- Do not use mobile phones
- Do not open other tabs or applications
Repeated violations may lead to session termination or delay in exam eligibility.
6. Exam-Day Do’s – Best Practices.
On the day of the exam, candidates should follow these guidelines:
- Log in at least 15–20 minutes early
- Complete the room scan slowly and clearly
- Sit upright and remain calm
- Keep your face centred in the camera view
- Read questions carefully before answering
- Maintain minimal body movement throughout
The exam has no negative marking, so candidates should stay relaxed and attempt all questions.
7. Exam-Day Don’ts – Actions to Avoid.
The following actions can result in immediate disqualification:
- Looking away from the screen repeatedly
- Excessive head, eye, or hand movement
- Speaking, whispering, or mouthing words
- Allowing another person into the room
- Using earphones or headphones
- Checking mobile phones or notes
- Standing up or leaving the seat
Even seemingly harmless actions like stretching or adjusting position repeatedly should be avoided.
8. Common Mistakes Made by Candidates.
Based on recent exam experiences, candidates often make these avoidable mistakes:
- Delaying renewal until the last month before expiry
- Ignoring NISM emails or spam folders
- Assuming videos can be skipped or played in the background
- Underestimating internet stability
- Expecting immediate certificate generation after the exam
Proper planning helps avoid these issues.
9. Financial & Professional Risks Involved.
If the exam is auto-submitted or disqualified:
- The ₹2,500 exam fee is forfeited
- The entire process must be repeated
- Mandatory videos must be rewatched
- Certificate renewal gets delayed
For Research Analysts, such delays may also affect regulatory compliance and business continuity.
10. Best Practices from Successful Candidates.
Candidates who completed the exam smoothly followed these practices:
- Choose a time slot with zero interruptions
- Completed videos in one or two focused sittings
- Used a dedicated device only for the exam
- Tested the internet and camera beforehand
- Kept water nearby to avoid unnecessary movement
11. Professional Mindset – Final Advice
NISM XV-B is designed to ensure that Research Analysts remain updated, disciplined, and compliant. Treat the exam process with the same seriousness as SEBI filings, client disclosures, or regulatory audits. Calm execution and rule compliance are more important than speed.
Key Takeaway
Understanding the process removes unnecessary stress. Following instructions carefully ensures a smooth XV-B experience.
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