The Indian Institute of Banking and Finance (IIBF) conducts the MSME Exam to help banking and finance professionals gain a deep understanding of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Candidates preparing for the upcoming exam should review the IIBF MSME Syllabus 2025 and Exam Pattern carefully to plan their preparation effectively.
The exam aims to test the candidate’s knowledge of MSME operations, financing, development policies, and institutional framework. The syllabus is divided into eight key modules, covering the entire ecosystem of MSMEs in India.
IIBF MSME Syllabus 2025: Module-Wise Topics
The IIBF MSME Syllabus 2025 is structured into eight comprehensive modules. Each module covers specific areas related to MSME setup, financing, and policy framework.
Module | Topics Covered |
1. Setting up MSME | Evolution and definition of SMEs, their role in economic development, organizational forms, establishing SMEs, environmental scanning, market assessment, gender and entrepreneurial development. |
2. MSMEs: Policy, Regulatory and Legal Framework | SME policy framework since 1991, regulatory laws, SME Development Bill 2005, LLP Act, registration procedures, and credit reports (CIBIL, CERSAI, D&B, MIRA). |
3. Institutional Framework & MSME Financing | Central and state-level institutions supporting MSMEs such as SIDBI, NSIC, DICs, SFCs, and commercial banks; perspectives from entrepreneurs and bankers. |
4. Financing Options & Modes | Financing methods, venture capital, hybrid capital, term finance, working capital assessment, credit risk management, collateral, Mudra Bank, and RBI guidelines. |
5. MSME Development | Business development services, market and technology enhancement, modernization, CGTSI, CGTMSE, PMEGP, and other government initiatives. |
6. Clusters and Cluster Development | Meaning, advantages, types, development strategies, success factors, policy support, and examples of successful clusters in India and globally. |
7. MSME: Rehabilitation | Identification and management of sickness, restructuring, recovery options, NPA management, and legal measures. |
8. Future of MSMEs | Emerging challenges, IT linkages, relationship banking, WTO implications, Basel-II, globalization impact, and new opportunities in MSME growth. |
IIBF MSME Exam Pattern 2025
The IIBF MSME Exam 2025 will be conducted in an online computer-based test (CBT) format. The exam will assess conceptual understanding and practical knowledge related to MSMEs.
The following table highlights the IIBF MSME Exam Pattern 2025:
Particulars | Details |
Exam Name | IIBF MSME Exam 2025 |
Subject | Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) |
Mode | Online (CBT) |
Language | English Only |
Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Number of Questions | 120 Questions |
Total Marks | 100 Marks |
Exam Duration | 2 Hours |
Passing Criteria | Minimum 60 marks out of 100 |
Negative Marking | No Negative Marking |
Key Highlights of IIBF MSME Exam 2025
- The exam is designed for banking professionals and financial officers dealing with MSME clients.
- The question paper will cover all eight modules of the syllabus.
- Candidates can attempt the test only in English language.
- The exam will be conducted in a computer-based format at designated centres.
- A minimum score of 60 out of 100 is required to qualify.
