CISI status for APU finance grads

A leg up: The CISI-APU collaboration is set to elevate graduates’ professional standing with opportunities for networking, continuing professional development, and access to resources.

PROFESSIONAL development in any sector is a boon in today’s evolving world.

Thanks to a new collaborative initiative, Bachelor and Master of Finance graduates from the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) now have a unique pathway to develop their professional journey in the dynamic landscape of the financial sector.

With the prestigious Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) extending its membership opportunities, these graduates have a clear path to elevate their professional standing through a tiered system.

This ensures that the graduates not only are equipped with academic knowledge, but also benefit from real-world industry exposure and recognition.

The leading professional body for securities and investment practitioners in the United Kingdom and beyond, CISI has a membership structure that comprises five distinct grades: Affiliate, Associate (ACSI), Member (MCSI), Individual Charter and Student Membership.

In the wake of the CISI-APU collaboration, Master of Finance graduates from the varsity will be granted CISI accreditation, elevating their status to Associate membership.

This recognition will open doors to a network of opportunities for the graduates within the global financial community.

APU’s master graduates with a specialisation in fintech are not left behind as they are extended the Associate membership eligibility, acknowledging their expertise in navigating the complexities of the fintech sector.

In addition, the varsity’s Bachelor in Banking and Finance (Hons) graduates, encompassing all specialisms, can now transition into the professional realm with CISI’s Affiliate membership.

This presents an opportunity for these graduates to align themselves with a globally recognised institution, irrespective of their level of industry experience.

Whether affiliates or associates, APU graduates enrolling in CISI membership will unlock a suite of benefits, including the MyCISI Member App, designatory letters (for ACSI members), Continuing Professional Development (CPD) scheme, access to CPD Events and CISI TV, MyCISI rewards, and membership badges.

Other benefits include Professional Refresher elearning modules and The Review magazine, participation in professional forums and training and competence interest groups, exclusive invitations to events like the CISI Annual Integrity Debate, networking opportunities, including the CISI annual dinner, and participation in the CISI mentoring scheme.

Affiliate members of CISI at APU are not only a part of an exclusive network; they gain access to a plethora of benefits.

In an effort to encourage early enrolment, CISI has extended a 25% discount on membership fees for APU students joining as Associate or Affiliate members, serving as an incentive for individuals to seize the moment and leverage the benefits that come with the membership.

APU School of Finance and Accounting head Assoc Prof Dr Chong Lee Lee said APU graduates embark on a journey that transcends academic achievements as they step into the professional realm armed with CISI membership.

“The collaboration between APU and CISI is not only about certificates; it’s about shaping futures, fostering excellence, and empowering a new generation of finance professionals to thrive in a dynamic and ever-evolving industry.”

CISI chief executive officer Tracy Vegro said the financial services sector is perpetually evolving and CISI’s membership and lifelong learning resources will offer APU graduates a competitive edge.

“With the profession constantly innovating on the fintech and AI front, APU students are well-placed to become a huge asset to any employer.”