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IFSE Institute is concluding its operations after many years of dedicated service in financial education. To support students during this transition, IFSE has partnered with CSI to provide access to equivalent courses. Beginning March 31, 2025, students can register for these courses through CSI. Please refer to the table below for details on course equivalencies and answers to common questions to guide you through this change. 

IFSE Courses CSI Courses
Canadian Investment Funds Course Investment Funds in Canada Course 
Branch Managers’ Examination Course Branch Compliance Officer’s Course 
Investing in Alternative Mutual Funds and Hedge Funds Hedge Funds and Liquid Alternatives for Mutual Fund Representatives 
Exchange Traded Funds Course ETFs for Mutual Fund Representatives 
90-day Training Course The 90-day MF Skills Builder Course 
Ethics and Professional Conduct Course Ethical Practice in the Financial Services Industry 
Exempt Market Proficiency Course Exempt Market Proficiency Course 
Canadian Compliance Course Canadian Compliance Course 

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FAQs

Will the corresponding CSI course be different in nature to my current course?

All courses that represent proficiency for registration purposes are equivalent to IFSE’s offerings from a regulatory perspective. There will be content differences between the equivalent courses except for the Exempt Market Proficiency Course and the Canadian Compliance Course. However, the majority of course content will overlap. 

What happens if I registered with IFSE before March 31, 2025?

If you enrolled in an IFSE course before March 31, 2025, you have until June 30, 2025, to finish your coursework and exams. We recommend scheduling and taking your exam as soon as you feel prepared. 

After June 30, 2025, students who have not completed their course may enrol for CSI equivalent courses and continue their studies under CSI’s policies. 

How do I register for a course with CSI?

You can register directly for the applicable course by visiting csi.ca. 

Will my IFSE certification still be recognized after IFSE closes?

Yes, any certification(s) earned from IFSE until June 30, 2025, remains valid. We recommend that you confirm with IFSE or your employers for any specific requirements. 

What happens if I don’t complete my IFSE course by June 30, 2025?

If you do not complete your IFSE course by June 30, 2025, you will be required to register for a CSI equivalent course, subject to CSI’s policies, including any applicable registration requirements and fees. 

Will my course progress transfer to CSI?

No, course progress will not transfer. If you do not complete your IFSE course by June 30, 2025, you will be required to register for a CSI equivalent course, subject to CSI’s policies, including any applicable registration requirements and fees. 

Will I need to pay again to enroll with CSI?

Yes, enrolling in a CSI equivalent course will require a new registration and payment.  

Can I still access my IFSE course materials after June 30, 2025?

No, access to IFSE course materials will end after June 30, 2025. If your course requires an exam, IFSE recommends scheduling and completing your exam prior to June 30, 2025. 

Can I still use my CIFC books to study for the CSI exams?

Although the CIFC and CSI’s Investment Funds in Canada (IFC) course are equivalent, there are differences in course content. Therefore, we recommend that you use the material from CSI to study for the IFC course. 

Who should I contact for support regarding my IFSE course?

Until June 30, 2025, IFSE will continue to provide support. After that, CSI can assist with new course enrollments and inquiries. 

Will IFSE offer refunds for uncompleted courses?

We recommend reviewing IFSE’s refund policy, as eligibility for refunds will depend on their terms and conditions.