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Exam guide · Updated June 2026

CeMAP Exam Format 2026

Everything you need to know about the CeMAP and FSRE exam structure — units, question types, time limits, pass marks, and how marks are awarded. Updated for the September 2025 specification.

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Overview

CeMAP (Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice) is the primary mortgage adviser qualification in the UK. It is awarded by Walbrook Institute London (formerly the London Institute of Banking & Finance, LIBF). Passing CeMAP meets the FCA's competency requirements for advising on regulated mortgage contracts.

Since September 2025, CeMAP has been structured as the Financial Services, Regulation & Ethics (FSRE) qualification for Module 1, plus Mortgage Advice and Practice units for Modules 2 and 3. The exam format below reflects the current specification.

FSRE — Module 1 (FRE1 + FRE2)

UnitQuestionsTimePass markFormat
FRE1 — Industry, Regulation & Key Parties25 MCQ + 3 case studies (5 Qs each) = 40 marks60 min70% (28/40)Standalone MCQ + linked case studies
FRE2 — Skills, Principles & Ethical Behaviours25 MCQ + 3 case studies (5 Qs each) = 40 marks60 min70% (28/40)Standalone MCQ + linked case studies

Mortgage Advice — Modules 2 & 3 (MRT1, MRT2, ASEW/ASSC)

UnitQuestionsTimePass markFormat
MRT1 — Mortgage Law, Practice & Application50 MCQ60 min70% (35/50)Standalone MCQ
MRT2 — Mortgage Products & Post-Completion40 MCQ60 min70% (28/40)Standalone MCQ
ASEW/ASSC — Assessment of Mortgage Advice Knowledge6 case studies (10 Qs each) = 60 marks120 min70% (42/60)Linked case studies only

Question types

Standalone MCQ

A single question with four answer options (A–D). Only one answer is correct. These test knowledge recall and understanding of regulatory rules, definitions, and processes.

Linked case studies

A short client scenario followed by a set of questions that all relate to that scenario — 5 questions per case in FRE1 and FRE2, 10 per case in the ASEW/ASSC synoptic assessment. These test your ability to apply knowledge to a real-world mortgage advice situation — the type of question that catches candidates who only memorised facts.

Pass, merit and distinction thresholds

Each unit is graded on a percentage basis. See CeMAP pass marks explained for the full breakdown.

You do not need a merit or distinction to qualify as a mortgage adviser — a pass in each unit is sufficient. However, some employers use the grade as a signal of thoroughness.

How exams are taken

Since 13 January 2026, every CeMAP exam has been sat online via Brightspace with remote invigilation — Pearson VUE test centres are no longer used. You book through Walbrook Institute London, sit the exam on your own device under webcam supervision, and get provisional results immediately on submission. There is no fixed exam timetable — you can sit when you feel ready.

How to prepare for the 2026 format

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Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on each CeMAP exam?

FRE1, FRE2 and MRT2 each have 40 total marks. MRT1 has 50 standalone MCQs. ASEW/ASSC has 60 questions across 6 case studies.

How are CeMAP exams taken in 2026?

Since 13 January 2026, every CeMAP exam is sat online via Brightspace with remote invigilation. Pearson VUE test centres are no longer used.

What is the CeMAP pass mark?

70% on every unit — 28/40 on FRE1, FRE2 or MRT2, 35/50 on MRT1, or 42/60 on ASEW/ASSC.