The Certified Alternative Investment Manager (AIM) is Equalifi’s exam-based qualification for professionals seeking structured knowledge of alternative investments. It recognises a sound understanding of alternative asset classes, fund structures, investment strategies, due diligence, portfolio considerations and risk.
The AIM follows the full EAS syllabus, covering private equity, venture capital, private credit, real estate, infrastructure, hedge funds, structured products, family-office allocation, fund economics, valuation, due diligence, risk management, ESG and technology-enabled investing.
The AIM is assessed through a single MCQ examination, which also serves as Level 1 of the Equalified Alternatives Strategist (EAS) designation.
Pathway to the EAS designation
| Award | Assessment | What it recognises |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Alternative Investment Manager (AIM) | MCQ Examination | Structured knowledge across the full EAS syllabus |
| Equalified Alternatives Strategist (EAS) | MCQ Examination, plus Project and Viva | The ability to apply that knowledge in practice, with sound professional and ethical judgement |
AIM holders may progress to the project and viva at any time to earn the EAS designation, without retaking the examination.
Who should take the exam?
Investment and wealth professionals, family-office teams, AIF and fund professionals, analysts, advisers and other finance practitioners who wish to demonstrate structured knowledge of alternative investments.
Important
The Certified Alternative Investment Manager (AIM) is an educational qualification awarded by Equalifi. It does not constitute a regulatory licence or authorisation to provide investment advice, manage funds or distribute financial products.
Exam details
Equalifi offers the examination through an external, remote-proctored platform. Once registration and payment are confirmed, candidates receive an exam link by email. Candidates may schedule and take the exam at any time within one year of registration, subject to the platform’s requirements.
Candidates need a reliable internet connection and a computer with a working camera. Please read the technical and exam-day instructions before beginning the exam.
| Sr. No. | Name of module | Type of questions | Test duration | No. of questions | Passing criteria | Negative marking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Certified Alternative Investment Manager (AIM) | MCQ | 2 hours | 100 | 60% | 20% per incorrect answer |
Validity
The Certified Alternative Investment Manager (AIM) certification does not expire.
Candidate audit
Equalifi audits a percentage of applications at random on a regular basis. Candidates are responsible for providing the requested supporting documentation to verify the education and professional background stated in their registration form. Equalifi does not contact employers or educational institutions to obtain verification documents on a candidate’s behalf.
Candidates selected for audit are notified by email and have 10 business days to respond. They must meet the audit requirements before receiving the AIM certification.
Failure to comply with the audit, falsification or misrepresentation of information, or any unprofessional conduct will result in denial or cancellation of the registration and/or revocation of the AIM certification, and all fees will be forfeited. A candidate who does not comply with an audit will also be subject to audit when reapplying in future.
Fee details
Exam fee: INR 3,540
The fee is inclusive of GST and applies to each attempt.
Access Pass benefits
Fee waiver: Equalifi Chartered, Professional and Virtual Pass holders receive a 50% waiver on the exam fee.
Learn more about the Equalifi Access Pass.
Exam preparation: For stronger exam readiness, candidates are encouraged to join the Alternative Investment Leaders Cohort, Equalifi’s executive education programme in alternatives. Access Pass holders receive a fee waiver of 10% to 50%, depending on their pass category.