CAIIB ABFM Module-Wise Preparation Tips & Tricks, Check Details

The CAIIB ABFM exam has been scheduled for 13th December 2025, and professionals who have applied for the exam have just around 40 days left for their preparation. Balancing a full-time job and preparing for the exam can be overwhelming, but with the correct approach, it is possible to cover the syllabus efficiently in a short time.

In this blog, we provide a module-wise strategy to help professionals score well using concept-focused learning, PDFs, videos, and MCQs.

How to Start with Module A (Management)?

Focus on understanding concepts, especially management functions, change management models, and schools of management. Use PDFs for most topics and videos only for difficult concepts.

AspectDetails
Chapters6 chapters (5 on management functions, 1 on other topics like communication & decision-making)
Focus AreasManagement processes, Learning organizations, Schools of management, Change management models
Study MaterialCrash course PDFs – primary source; videos only for difficult topics
StrategyUnderstand concepts first then practice MCQs and then revise key points
Expected ScoreCovering Module A conceptually can give you 17-18 out of 25 marks
TimeframeStart immediately and try to complete as soon as possible

Note:

  • Don’t skip any chapter; all are important for conceptual clarity.
  • Watch videos only for tricky topics like Change Management models or Systems Theory.

Important Topics of ABFM Module A

The details of the important topics of ABFM Module A are as follows:

  • Functions of Management: Planning, Organizing, Staffing, Directing, Controlling
  • Management Thoughts: Classical, Neo-classical, Modern
  • SWOT Analysis: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
  • Planning Process & Components: Steps & types of plans
  • Management by Objectives (MBO): Concept & benefits
  • Types of Organizational Structures: Line, Functional, Matrix
  • Staffing: Recruitment, Selection, Training, Development
  • Performance Appraisal: Methods & importance
  • Leadership, Motivation, Communication: Core of directing
  • Controlling: Features & link with planning

Also Check: CAIIB ABFM Important Topics

What is the Best Approach for Module B (Finance)?

Prioritize Leverages and Capital Budgeting as they carry the highest weight. Use videos for these topics, and read the rest from PDFs.

AspectDetails
Key TopicsLeverages, Capital Budgeting, and Decision Making
Study MaterialVideos for Leverages & Capital Budgeting; PDFs for basics & Decision Making
StrategyWatch videos (1.25x speed), go through note PDFs, and practice numerical examples
Expected ScoreThese topics alone can fetch 15-18 out of 25 marks

Note:

  • Focus on formulas and examples along with theory.
  • Decision Making topics can mostly be covered via PDFs; watch videos only if you face difficulty.

Important Topics of ABFM Module B

The details of the important topics of ABFM Module B are as follows:

  • Sources of Finance: Equity, Debt, Preference Capital
  • Preference Shares: Features, types, dividend policy
  • Leverage Concepts: Financial, Operating, Combined (with formulas)
  • Capital Investment Decisions: Payback Period, NPV, IRR, Modified IRR
  • Foreign Investment Analysis: Approaches to evaluate overseas projects
  • Risk & Uncertainty in Capital Budgeting: Sensitivity & Scenario Analysis
  • Decision-Making Tools: CVP Analysis, ABC Analysis

How to Prepare for Module C (Advanced Finance/Corporate Finance)?

Module C has the highest weight (approx. 30 marks). Complete preparation requires both PDFs and videos, especially for formulas, mergers, and amalgamations.

AspectDetails
Key TopicsFormulas, Mergers & Amalgamations, Numerical problems
Study MaterialVideos (Crash batch) + PDFs
StrategyFirst read PDF then watch videos to understand concepts & examples and then practice numericals
Expected ScoreFull coverage can yield 25-28 out of 30 marks
Timeframe4-6 hours for PDF + video coverage; max 8 hours if watching all videos thoroughly

Note:

  • Don’t skip any topic; all subtopics are important for scoring.
  • Focus on understanding formula application, not just memorization.

Important Topics of ABFM Module C

The details of the important topics of ABFM Module C are as follows:

  • Corporate Valuation Approaches: DCF and others
  • Equity Valuation Models: P/E, Book Value Approach
  • Special Cases in Valuation: Cross-holdings, cyclical industries, convertible securities
  • Mergers & Acquisitions: Types, anti-takeover strategies, tax relief in amalgamation
  • Hybrid Securities: Debentures, Bonds, Preference Shares
  • Start-up Finance: Definition, benefits, challenges, government policies
  • Private Equity & Venture Capital: Concepts, stages, differences

How to Approach for Module D (Factual & Miscellaneous)?

Module D is relatively easy. Most topics can be covered using PDFs, with short videos for tricky areas like SPAC or Business Analytics.

AspectDetails
Key TopicsStartups, SPAC, Business Analytics, Miscellaneous factual content
Study MaterialPDFs primary; videos for understanding complex topics
StrategyRead PDFs fully then watch short videos for challenging sections (10-30 minutes)
Expected ScoreFull coverage can fetch 20+ marks (approx. 22 marks)
TimeframeAround 4 hours with focused reading and selective video support

Tips:

  • Prioritize understanding the key terms and concepts.
  • Module D is factual, so memorization plays a small role.

Important Topics of ABFM Module D

The details of the important topics of ABFM Module D are as follows:

  • Business Analytics as a Management Tool: Role & key elements
  • Green & Sustainable Finance: ISO standards, application in financial institutions
  • SPAC: Definition, features, process, De-SPAC stages
  • AI & Cybernetics in Business: Control theory, automation, testing processes

Study Plan to Prepare for ABFM Paper

With just few days left, covering all modules systematically need a weekly plan, dedicating 1 hour daily or 3-4 hours over weekends.

WeekFocus
Week 1Complete Module A conceptually
Week 2 Complete Module B, prioritize Leverages & Capital Budgeting
Week 3 Complete Module C with videos + formulas + numericals
Week 4 Complete Module D, focus on tricky topics via PDFs/videos
Week 5 Complete revision of all modules with PDFs and MCQs

Tips:

  • Track progress weekly; adjust sequence if you’re stronger in some modules.
  • Reserve videos for difficult topics; PDFs suffice for most areas.
  • Use mock tests 2-3 times, including 2 days before exam, to build confidence.

Preparation Tips for Scoring 50+ in ABFM

To prepare for the CAIIB ABFM, it is important to study smartly by prioritizing important concepts and practicing regularly. Here are some simple tips that will help aspirants prepare in a structured and professional way.

  • Focus on understanding concepts first: Learn the ideas and principles behind each topic, and memorize only when needed, mainly in Module A (Management) and Module D.
  • Practice MCQs regularly: Solve multiple-choice questions alongside studying each module to strengthen your understanding and improve exam readiness.
  • Revise formulas with examples: Always practice formulas using real examples; avoid memorizing formulas alone without understanding how to apply them.
  • Set dedicated study hours for each module: Plan specific time slots for every module and ensure no topic is left out.
  • Use PDFs as your main study source: Rely on PDFs for most topics, and refer to videos only when you face doubts or need clarification.
  • Track weekly progress: Review your preparation every week, evaluate what you have learned, and adjust your study plan to stay on track.

FAQs

Q1. What is the CAIIB ABFM exam date for 2025?

Ans: The CAIIB ABFM exam is scheduled for 13th December 2025.

Q2. How many modules are there in ABFM?

Ans: There are four modules: Management, Finance, Advanced Finance/Corporate Finance, and Contemporary Topics.

Q3. How much time should I dedicate to each module?

Ans: Allocate dedicated hours per module and avoid skipping any topic.

Q4. Should I focus on concepts or memorization first?

Ans: Concepts first, memorization second, especially for Modules A and D.

Q5. How should I approach formulas in the exam?

Ans: Understand the application through examples rather than memorizing them blindly.