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  • Current CII Exams Pass Rates – as at June 2026

    The Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) has released its exam pass rates for 2025. In this article, we examine the latest figures, compare them to previous years, and highlight what these trends might mean for candidates planning their qualification route.

  • Understanding the Latest QROPS Changes and Overseas Transfer Rules

    In this article, we look at recent changes to Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes (QROPS) - useful reading for those studying for any of the CII R04, J05, or AF7 exams.

  • Auto-Enrolment: Understanding Today’s Rules and Tomorrow’s Changes

    In this article, we explore the dynamic changes in auto-enrolment relevant to CII R04 candidates. Learn about the current rules and the changes on the horizon.

  • Small Pots vs Trivial Commutation: How to Withdraw Small Pension Amounts Efficiently

    For those with modest pension savings, navigating how to access funds in retirement can be confusing. In this article, we look at two key ways to withdraw smaller pension amounts efficiently: small pots and trivial commutation. This article is relevant for anyone studying for their CII R04, J05, or AF7 exams.

  • Basic vs New State Pension: Key Differences Explained

    In this article, we take a look at the key differences between the two main types of State Pension: the Basic State Pension and the New State Pension - relevant to the CII's R01, R04, R05, R06, AF1, AF7, and AF5 exams.

  • A Look at Recent Past Papers for the CII J05 Exam – April 2026

    In this article, we are taking a look at the questions asked in recent CII J05 exams. This will be useful reading for you if you are preparing to sit this exam in the near future; it will help you to focus your revision on the areas that are likely to be examined.

  • You Can Never Do Too Many Pension Questions!

    Due to take the CII R04 exam any time soon? Capped drawdown may not be an option for clients retiring today, but many individuals still hold this form of drawdown, and it is still very much part of the R04 syllabus. There is a good chance it could be tested in your exam, so we thought we'd talk you through a couple of typical R04 questions on this subject.

  • Brand Bitesize: Pension Carry Forward

    In this Brand Bitesize video, we talk about the basic criteria that must be met for pension carry forward to apply. This is useful for CII R04, AF5, AF7, or R06 exam revision.

  • The Pension Protection Fund: A True Lifeboat in Stormy Times

    Those studying for the CII R04 and AF7 exam will need a thorough understanding of the Pension Protection Fund (PPF). In this article we look at how important the protection offered by the PPF is to members of defined benefit pension schemes.

  • Eat the Frog: How to Tackle Your Toughest Revision Tasks First

    Not all revision tasks are equal – some demand more focus and effort than others. This article outlines a straightforward approach to tackling the most challenging topics first, helping make study sessions more effective. Read on to learn how to put this into practice.

  • Class 3 National Insurance: The Opportunity Remains

    Class 3 National Insurance contributions are one of the most lucrative investment opportunities your clients could ever come across. Those studying for R04 will find this article particularly useful to their exam revision.

  • Key Amendments Announced in the Autumn Budget 2025

    In this article, we pull out the key amends announced in the Autumn Statement that you’ll need to be aware of in terms of your CII exams. This article is particularly relevant to exams R01, R02, R03, R04, AF1, AF4, CF6 and R07.

  • Pensions Tax Relief: What are you being asked?

    Those candidates studying towards the CII R04 exam may have noticed the rather prominent ‘be aware’ box in Chapter 2B of the study text regarding the annual allowance and money purchase annual allowance. This points out the importance of reading an exam question carefully particularly when it comes to tax relief on pension contributions. This article is relevant for anyone studying for the AF5, AF7, AF8, R04, or R06 exams.

  • Drawdown Investment Pathways Explained: Essential Knowledge for CII Pensions Exams

    Here, we delve into the intricacies of the investment pathways introduced by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) within recent years. We provide clear explanations of the four different options available and how they match specific retirement goals. Whether you're preparing for a CII pensions-related exam, such as AF7, AF8, R04, or J05, or seeking a better understanding of these pathways, read on as we explore their significance, requirements, and implications on pension investments.

  • Newsletter for July 2025

    Here's an update on all that's news at Brand Financial Training.