HKSI Diploma Programme Examination

The HKSI Diploma Programme Examination (DPE) was first introduced into the market place in July 2000, and since its inception has become a prestigious Hong Kong finance qualification, highly regarded by industry employers. The programme aims to set a single standard of competency across the securities and investment industry. Candidates who complete the DPE will acquire a combination of high-level theoretical and practical skills including:

• Economic analysis and financial modeling skills
• Investment analysis and portfolio management skills
• Overview of key legal and ethical issues for market practitioners

The DPE is recognised by both local regulatory bodies and by a variety of international professional associations and universities. It is also recognised as one of the key admission criteria for HKSI Membership.

Potential candidates are required to register as a DPE Registered Student prior to enrolling for any DPE examinations for the first time. The DPE consists of three papers and it is offered twice a year, normally in January and July. Candidates are required to complete all three papers within 3 years of their first eligible examination session following registration in order to be awarded the HKSI Certificate. Candidates who possess recognised qualifications may apply for exemption from DPE Paper 1.

Candidates can prepare for the DPE examinations either by self study or by attending preparatory courses.

The HKSI has recently developed the Professional Diploma in Financial Markets (PDFM) from the DPE. This new programme offers students a high degree of flexibility, allowing them to pursue the programme at their own pace and by their preferred mode of study. The DPE and the PDFM will be offered in parallel for three years following the launch of the PDFM in July 2006 after which the DPE will lapse and will be replaced by the PDFM. The last opportunity for candidates to register as a DPE Registered Student will be in May 2006 which is the enrolment deadline for the DPE examinations to be held in July 2006.

Candidates enrolling in any DPE Paper now have the opportunity to enjoy complimentary STUDENT MEMBERSHIP for one year.