Comments on: Studying the Canadian Securities Course

By: Bruce

Bruce — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 18:00:38 +0000

I found the in person course very valuable and stimulating. The question is partly one of budget and partly just what you think you learn better with: self study with the CSI materials or self-study combined with an in-person course. If you have some kind of background in stock market topics from courses or work, then I’d say you could probably get by without a prep course.

By: D

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 16:06:53 +0000

Hi Bruce,

I am actually debating whether I should take CSC preparation at U of T. I also rather prefer going to class. The only thing stopping me is that if I take the preparation courses at U of T, I still need to enroll with CSI for the full course to be eligible to write the exams, which I find odd but that is what CSI told me.I will end up paying 1290$ for UofT and approx. $900 for CSI. It is quite steep, considering I am paying from my own pocket.Was that the case with you? Thanks for the info in advance!

By: Bruce

Bruce — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 19:03:05 +0000

Hi Julia,

My impression thus far is that 90-95% of the people take the course either get it paid for by their employer or simply have to take it to keep and/or obtain a position. I find it particularly strange that the Institute refuses to sell the textbook – either digital or paper – without the whole course. What I’m doing is taking a study / preparation course through the School of Continuing Studies at the University of Toronto.

But, strictly speaking, that is not required. As I understand it, you can register with the Institute and study their materials on your own and then take the exam whenever you feel ready. I find that I can learn better and enjoy the learning more with a live class rather than sitting at home trying to figure it all out myself. I know people that have passed the exam purely through self study so it is an option. I just didn’t think that option would work well for me though.

By: Julia

Julia — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:20:29 +0000

Hi Bruce! I’ve thought about taking this course as well – and noticed that there was a lack of information out there as well. I was also surprised at the lack of support from the CSC in terms of studying for the exam – it seems as though all the courses that are offered are through a university or college. I’m hoping that by the time I want to take it I will be in a position to ask my employer to pay for it (as long as I pass!). Good luck!