CISI Islamic Finance Qualification (IFQ)

Islamic finance is one of the fastest growing areas in modern banking. By acquiring the Islamic Finance Qualification, you'll gain the necessary knowledge, insights and qualification to work in this dynamic sector and set yourself apart from the competition.

The IFQ has been jointly developed by the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) and the École Supérieure des Affaires (ESA), one of the leading business schools in the Middle East. It is the first international benchmark vocational qualification in the area of Islamic finance.

Key Information

  • First international benchmark vocational qualification in Islamic finance
  • Choose from classroom or distance-learning options (subject to availability)
  • Hundreds of delegates already trained in IFQ
  • Excellent first-time exam pass rate
  • Experienced full-time tutors with Islamic industry experience
  • Industry-recognised online and printed study materials
  • Study with a CISI accredited training provider
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Set yourself apart from the competition

The IFQ is aimed at existing financial advisers and employees of leading financial institutions specialising in Sharia-compliant finance, trade, investment and insurance.

The IFQ is primarily a practical qualification, but also covers the legal aspects of Sharia which underpin all Islamic contracts.

The BPP IFQ offers you a unique qualification in a niche area of the financial services industry. Islamic finance is now one of the fastest growing sectors of the financial marketplace – driven by the new wealth of the Middle East and by the needs of the Muslim community both in the UK and across the globe. Taking the Islamic finance qualification can open up new career opportunities for you.

Boost your career prospects

We have already trained hundreds of delegates through the IFQ. Of course, we've helped professionals through a range of other finance qualifications such as the CISI Certificates.

Your tutor will have experience not just of teaching and helping delegates to prepare for the examination, but also of working with conventional and Islamic Finance banks.

Islamic finance is growing fast

The Islamic finance industry is growing at 15-20% per annum, according to experts. Having already established itself in UK, Germany and Switzerland, some experts are predicting that it could become a major competitor to the conventional finance industry.

The importance of Islamic finance products

As a result of these developments, Islamic financial institutions have developed a vast range of products designed to serve the growing market. Several 'Islamic equity' investment funds have also been launched, with both FTSE and Dow Jones providing indices to monitor this growing market.

Islamic finance is important in helping the City of London maintain and develop its status as the global financial centre. Standard and Poor has estimated that Islamic banks and financial institutions manage approximately US$1 trillion of funds all over the world (Standard and Poor's Islamic Finance Outlook 2011).

Tailored training for your business

You can choose from classroom courses (subject to availability) or distance learning. We also provide an in-house service for some of the courses. Contact us on 0845 226 2422 or email in-house@bpp.com for more information on this option.

Dates and prices will be available soon.

How IFQ is structured

This course will focus on the syllabus and fully prepare delegates for the exam, which contains 100 questions to be completed in two hours. During your two-day course we will cover the following key topic areas:

  • Knowledge of the principles of the Sharia’a (Fiqh al Muamalat) and its application to Islamic banking and finance.
  • Knowledge of the types of Islamic finance contracts and products from a technical and Sharia’a perspective.
  • Understanding of the practices in Islamic finance markets and the principles of investment selection.
  • The high ethical standards essential for working in the Islamic finance industry.
  • An understanding of the influence of Sharia’a in a business context.
  • Preparation to hold key positions in the Islamic finance and Takaful (Islamic insurance) industries.

How the course is assessed

You gain the IFQ via Computer Based Testing, so you can take the exam at a time of your choice.

Flexible learning

The BPP Islamic Finance courses are designed to fit around your personal and business life.

Choose to study either on a classroom-based course (subject to availability) or, at your own pace, via our distance learning option.

Classroom study

All our courses are taught by tutors with both academic and professional experience. The classroom environment is fully interactive, meaning you can ask questions and get immediate feedback from your tutor.

Distance learning

Our distance learning option allows you to study when, where and how you want – using online tutorials, revision kits and study guides. You'll also receive tutor support at every stage – with contact via email.

Key study points

  • Online tutorials and revision kits
  • Full tutor support, whether learning in the classroom or distance learning
  • Rapid email response
  • Practice exam papers and consolidation exercises
  • Study guides for time management tips and learning techniques
  • PowerPoint course slides of class tutorials


How to book

To book a place:

Study locations

Classroom teaching for the IFQ is held at our London Liverpool Street study centre – close to Bank, Moorgate and Liverpool Street Underground stations. Based at the heart of the UK's financial services district, it allows you to rub shoulders with the industry's leading thinkers.


How to apply

To book a place now: