The RE5 is a regulatory examination for representatives rendering financial services, required under the financial advisory legislation. It is not a Unisa qualification: the examination is set by the regulator and delivered through appointed examination bodies.
This is the point that matters most. Unisa and other institutions offer preparation courses for the RE5, but passing the examination itself is administered under the regulator framework rather than awarded as an academic qualification.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Applications are generally assessed on the following.
- Appointment as a representative of an authorised financial services provider, which triggers the requirement
- Registration for the examination through an appointed examination body
- Payment of the examination fee
- Meeting the timeframe within which the examination must be passed after appointment
- A valid identity document for examination admission
- Preparation, whether self-study or through a course provider
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
The RE5 tests knowledge of the legislation governing the rendering of financial services by representatives, rather than product knowledge. It sits alongside a recognised qualification and documented experience within the fit and proper requirements.
Where a preparation course is offered by Unisa or another provider, completing it does not satisfy the requirement. Only passing the regulatory examination does.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
There is no matric subject requirement for the examination itself. What is required is appointment as a representative and registration for the examination through the appointed body.
The fit and proper requirements also cover honesty and integrity, a recognised qualification appropriate to the product categories you advise on, and continuous professional development once authorised.
Documents and Application Requirements
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your National Senior Certificate or latest statement of results
- Proof of the application fee, where one is charged
- Your final matric results, used to confirm any conditional offer
- A SAQA evaluation certificate, if you hold a foreign qualification
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Confirm the current examination structure, registration process and timeframes with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority, since these are set by the regulator and are revised.
Choose a preparation provider on its pass rates and materials rather than on any claim to award the certificate, since no provider awards it. Verify what any course actually delivers before paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the RE5 a Unisa qualification?
No. It is a regulatory examination set by the regulator and delivered through appointed examination bodies. Institutions offer preparation courses only.
What does the RE5 test?
Knowledge of the legislation governing the rendering of financial services by representatives, rather than product knowledge.
Does completing a course satisfy the requirement?
No. Only passing the regulatory examination does.
When must I pass it?
Within the timeframe set after your appointment as a representative. Confirm the current timeframe with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority.
Confirm the current examination requirements, registration process and timeframes with the Financial Sector Conduct Authority. This page is general information and not financial or legal advice. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.