Achieving CII qualifications with prior learning based on the Chartered Banker Institute Level 4 (SCQF Level 8) Diploma in Professional Financial Advice
The following examples illustrate different routes to CII qualifications and membership designations based on the Chartered Banker Institute RQF Level 4 (SCQF Level 8) Diploma in Professional Financial Advice
Other routes are available and these examples don't guarantee that all applications will receive the same prior learning award.
Similar qualification structure
The Chartered Banker Institute RQF Level 4 (SCQF Level 8) Diploma in Professional Financial Advice has a similar structure to the CII Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning:
- Each consists of six units.
- The unit names are similar
- The learning outcomes and assessments are similar for most units
- However, the unit 6 Application of Professional Financial Advice has a different assessment to CII's (R06) Financial planning practice, so there is no R06 exemption.
Non-CII qualification and Statement of Professional Standing
Bianca is an experienced financial adviser who has a Statement of Professional Standing for advising on retail investment products and securities, having completed the Chartered Banker Institute RQF Level 4 (SCQF Level 8) Diploma in Professional Financial Advice.
Bianca joins the Personal Finance Society and renews with CII when her SPS expires.
CII Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning
Bianca claims her exemptions from R01, R02, R03, R04 and R05, then passes R06 to complete the Level 4 Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning and use the DipPS professional designation.

Bianca now has 100 CII credits that contribute towards the CII Level 6 Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning.
Prior learning awards for the Chartered Banker Institute RQF Level 4 (SCQF Level 8) Diploma in Professional Financial Advice cost 20% of the price of the CII qualification units.
CII Level 6 Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning, Chartered Financial Planner title and Fellowship
Bianca completes the CII Level 6 Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning qualification, achieves the Chartered Financial Planner title and PFS Fellowship in a similar route to others who pass their remaining units through direct CII assessment.