RES5 vs M9: which module do you need first?
RES5 is the rules, ethics and skills module every financial adviser representative needs, with the strictest pass marks (75% and 80%). M9 is product knowledge for life insurance. Most new advisers sit RES5 first, then M9 and M9A.
RES5 vs M9 at a glance
| RES5 | M9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | RES5: Rules, Ethics and Skills for Financial Advisory Services | CMFAS Module 9: Life Insurance and Investment-Linked Policies |
| Questions | 150 multiple-choice questions: Part I (110) and Part II (40) | 100 multiple-choice questions |
| Time | 3 hours | 2 hours |
| Passing score | 75% for Part I and 80% for Part II (each part passed separately) | 70% (70 out of 100) |
| Format | Closed book, computer-based | Closed book, computer-based |
| Cost | S$150 (SCI members) or S$180 (non-members) before GST, plus a S$21.80 registration fee per attempt | Set by SCI (single product modules have been listed at roughly S$80 to S$137); check SCI before you register |
| Languages | English | English |
| Where | SCI computer-based examination centre, Singapore | SCI computer-based examination centre, Singapore |
| Level | Rules and ethics | Life insurance |
What each exam covers
RES5
- The Financial Advisory Regulatory Framework
- Representatives and Licensing
- Advising Clients and Recommending Products
- Fair Dealing and Market Conduct
- AML/CFT and Data Protection
- Ethics and Professional Skills
M9
- Principles of Life Insurance
- Types of Life Insurance Policies
- Policy Provisions, Riders and Nominations
- Investment-Linked Policies
- Annuities and Retirement Planning
- Needs Analysis, Underwriting and Claims
Which should you take?
RES5 is the rules, ethics and skills module every financial adviser representative needs, with the strictest pass marks (75% and 80%). M9 is product knowledge for life insurance. Most new advisers sit RES5 first, then M9 and M9A.
Try both, free
Each free practice test takes about 10 minutes and shows your score by topic. No signup.
FAQ
What is the difference between RES5 and M9?
RES5 is the rules, ethics and skills module every financial adviser representative needs, with the strictest pass marks (75% and 80%). M9 is product knowledge for life insurance. Most new advisers sit RES5 first, then M9 and M9A.
Which is harder, RES5 or M9?
RES5: 150 multiple-choice questions: part i (110) and part ii (40) in 3 hours. M9: 100 multiple-choice questions in 2 hours. The longer exam covers more ground, but the harder one is the one further from your daily work. Take both free practice tests to see where you stand.
Can I hold both RES5 and M9?
Yes. CMFAS modules are separate exams, and most representatives need several, matched to the products they'll advise on.
How do I prepare for RES5 and M9?
Start with the free practice test for each, then study by topic. Premium is per exam (S$187 a month each), so most people start with the exam they'll sit first and add the second when they're ready.
More comparisons
Exam details are summarized from SCI's and IBF's published information as of October 2026. Confirm with SCI or IBF before you book. CMFASQuizBank is not affiliated with MAS, SCI or IBF.