RE5 Certificate UNISA: How to Enroll and What to Expect

If you’re planning to build a career in the South African financial services industry, chances are you’ve already heard about the Regulatory Examination 5 (RE5). This certificate is one of the most important milestones for representatives working in insurance, banking, or investment firms.

At the University of South Africa (UNISA), many students and professionals look for guidance on how to prepare for the RE5 and whether UNISA offers relevant support.

What Is Re5 Certificate?

The RE5 Certificate is a mandatory regulatory qualification overseen by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). It ensures that representatives in the financial services sector meet the required standards of compliance, ethics, and product knowledge.

Purpose: To verify that you understand the Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services (FAIS) Act.
Who Needs It: Any representative giving advice or intermediary services under FAIS, whether you’re a new entrant or already working in the field.
Format: A multiple-choice exam with 50 questions.
Pass Mark: 65% (you’ll need to get at least 33 out of 50 correct).
Cost: Around R1,200 to R1,500 per attempt, depending on the accredited exam body.

Does UNISA Offer the RE5 Certificate?

UNISA itself does not directly administer the RE5 exam, since this is managed by the FSCA and its appointed exam bodies. However, UNISA offers financial planning, risk management, and business courses that can help you prepare for RE5 and strengthen your understanding of the regulatory environment.

If you are a UNISA student, you can:

Use UNISA courses as a foundation – Modules in law, business management, or financial planning provide a strong base for compliance knowledge.
Supplement with RE5 study material – You’ll need to register with an accredited exam body such as Moonstone or FPI (Financial Planning Institute) to actually sit for the exam.
Combine qualifications – Many professionals choose to study a UNISA qualification while simultaneously preparing for RE5, which makes them more marketable to employers.

How to Enroll for the RE5 Exam

Since UNISA doesn’t directly register candidates for the RE5, you’ll need to follow these steps through accredited providers:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Make sure you’re working in, or planning to work in, a role that falls under FAIS. Employers often guide new representatives through this process.

Step 2: Register With an Accredited Body

The FSCA appoints providers such as Moonstone to manage exam bookings. You can:

Select your exam date and location (major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban host sessions regularly).
Choose between in-person and remote online exams (where available).

Step 3: Prepare Thoroughly

Use official study guides aligned with the FSCA’s Exam Preparation Guide.
Allow at least 6–8 weeks of study if you’re working full-time.
Practice with mock exams to build confidence.

Step 4: Write the Exam

The exam lasts 2 hours.
You’ll receive results within about 4–6 weeks.
If you don’t pass, you can re-register (no limits, but costs apply each time).

What to Expect From the Process

Challenging but manageable: With consistent study, most candidates pass within two attempts.
A career requirement: Without RE5, you cannot legally give financial advice under FAIS.
Employer support: Many financial institutions sponsor exam fees or provide training workshops.
Complementary to UNISA studies: If you’re studying a BCom or Diploma at UNISA, preparing for RE5 alongside your coursework gives you an edge in the job market. You can understand XMO Meaning UNISA

Preparing for the RE5 Exam

While UNISA’s qualifications provide a solid foundation, candidates need to undertake specific preparation for the RE5 exam. This preparation involves:

Self-study: The FSCA provides a comprehensive exam guide that outlines the topics and subtopics covered in the RE5 exam. Candidates are encouraged to study this guide thoroughly.
Exam Prep Courses: There are various institutions and online platforms offering RE5 preparation courses. These courses often include practice exams, study materials, and guidance from industry professionals.
Study Groups: Joining a study group can be helpful for discussing complex topics and staying motivated. Here are the details about Moodle Proctoring Tool

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the RE5 certificate valid for?

Once passed, the RE5 is valid indefinitely. However, ongoing CPD (Continuous Professional Development) is required to maintain compliance in your role.

Can I study for RE5 while doing a degree at UNISA?

Yes. Many students prepare for RE5 alongside their degree or diploma. It’s a good way to make yourself work-ready before graduation.

How many times can I attempt the RE5 exam?

There’s no official limit, but you must pay the registration fee for every attempt. Employers often expect you to pass within a few tries.

Do I need prior financial qualifications to take RE5?

Not necessarily. While a background in finance helps, the exam tests regulatory and compliance knowledge rather than technical financial calculations.

Does UNISA prepare students directly for RE5?

UNISA doesn’t run RE5 exam sittings, but courses in business law, finance, and risk management give you a strong theoretical base to prepare more effectively.

Earning your RE5 certificate is a vital step in building a compliant and successful career in the South African financial services sector. While UNISA doesn’t administer the exam directly, combining your UNISA studies with dedicated RE5 preparation can put you ahead of the competition.

Think of it this way: your UNISA qualification gives you broad knowledge and credibility, while your RE5 certificate proves that you’re compliant and ready to operate legally in the industry. Together, they form a powerful foundation for long-term success.

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Kagiso

With five years of experience as a professor at the University of South Africa (UNISA), Kagiso brings deep academic knowledge and practical understanding to his writing.Now he creates reliable content that supports students.