Introduction to Membership

The Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland (CIOBS) is world's oldest and most prestigious professional body for financial services professionals. It is the only professional body in the world which can accord the designation of Chartered Banker to Members and Fellows. Those who achieve membership of CIOBS are committing to professional standards of excellence that have been the hallmark of a unique Scottish financial services culture which is world renowned.

The award of a professional qualification and a membership designation from the CIOBS is the basis for the development of a successful career in banking and financial services. Those who join CIOBS benefit from the status, confidence and professional standing which membership accords. It shows commitment to your development which will help enhance employability and career prospects both within the financial services industry and outside.

The normal route to Membership and Chartered Banker status is to pass the qualifying examinations. There are a variety of examinations offered by the Institute from entry level Certificates programmes through to the professional qualifying examinations for Chartered Bankers. The Institute also offers a range of regulatory qualifications which meet the FSA appropriate qualification requirements.

CIOBS offers five grades of Membership depending on the level of qualification achieved:

Affiliate: There are no qualification requirements to become an affiliate member. This category of Membership is used by those who wish to participate in the activities of the Institute and receive the Scottish Banker magazine without completing the qualifying examinations. This category of membership is also used by those who complete the Mortgage Advice and Practice Certificate and wish to use the Professional Mortgage Adviser (PMA) designation.

Student: Everyone who studies for a professional qualification at Certificate or Membership level must join as a student member.

Associate: Open to those who have passed the Associateship Programme and are entitled to use the designation ACIBS. The Associateship Programme has been replaced by the Chartered Banker programme however the ACIBS membership grade will be still be available to those currently holding that designation.

Member: Open to those who previously passed the Members Course and the new Chartered Banker programme. Members are entitled to use the designatory letters of MCIBS and subject to CPD requirements can use the title Chartered Banker. In 2006 the Members Course was replaced by the Chartered Banker programme. This is the highest qualification that is awarded by examination.

Fellow: A fellowship is awarded to those who have made an outstanding contribution to the banking industry or the Institute. It is awarded by the Institute Council to those who have been nominated either by their banks or by two other fellows. This grade of membership carries the designation of FCIBS.