What is the difference between the online Diploma course series and the Home Study Course+
The STA Diploma Part 1 and 2 courses are lecture based and fully interactive. Each week the students log in to Zoom for a live lecture where they have the ability to ask the tutor questions. If they miss a lecture then they can catch up with a recording post event. Access to lecture recordings is made available to students for the duration of the course. The Home Study Course is like an ebook, ie. not video based. Students can start the Home Study Course at any point and take as long as they like to prepare for the examinations rather than following a strict schedule. The success rate of both methods of learning is very similar so the decision as to which route you choose to prepare for the Diploma qualification depends on your preferred method and lifestyle.
How often do you run your online lecture based courses?+
We run each course once in the year. The Diploma Part 1 course starts mid October and the Diploma Part 2 course starts in January.
How long are your courses?+
The Diploma Part 1 course runs for seven weeks, one evening a week (usually a Wednesday) from 6.00pm-8.00pm. It ends with the Diploma Part 1 examination in early December. The Diploma Part 2 course runs for 12 weeks, one evening a week (again usually a Wednesday) from 6.30pm-8.00pm. It ends with the Diploma Part 2 examination in April.
Where are courses held?+
The Diploma Part 1 and 2 courses are held online via live Zoom webinar and therefore you can watch from wherever in the world. We record the lectures so students can catch up in their own time if unable to watch live. Students retain access to these recordings for the duration of the course.
Do you run any one or two day courses?+
The STA runs occasional one-day courses on technical analysis. For more information on this please email
[email protected]
Do you offer in-house training?+
If you are interested in corporate, tailor-made courses introducing your staff to technical analysis, please email the STA office on
[email protected]
When can I start the Home Study Course?+
You can start the STA Home Study Course (HSC) at any point. Like an e-book (ie. not videos), students can start reading the different modules and go at their own pace. It is downloadable and usable offline on PC, Mac, iPad or Android. The course includes 15 units with multiple choice questions, an exam prep module, and past Part 2 papers.
How often do you hold the exams?+
The Diploma Part 1 exams are held three times a year in March, July, and December. The Diploma Part 2 exam is held twice a year in April and October.
Do you have to have passed the Part 1 Exam before sitting Part 2?+
There is no need to have passed the Part 1 exam before sitting the Part 2 exam. Both can be sat while attending the STA Diploma Part 2 Course. However, both exams must be passed to earn the STA Diploma qualification.
If I fail, do I get another chance or do I have to register again?+
You have to re-register to resit the exam.
What percentage of students pass the exams?+
It depends on the cohort, but on average 70% of students sitting the exams pass.
What is the pass mark for the Part 1 exam?+
67%. Those achieving 85% or above are awarded a Merit.
What is the pass mark for the Part 2 exam?+
60%. Those achieving 85% or above are awarded a Distinction.
What do examiners look for in the Part 2 paper?+
They look for both knowledge and its application – reasoning, conclusions, and client-ready advice. High-quality chart analysis and report structure are important. Question 1 requires a minimum of 35/60. A total of 60/100 is needed to pass overall.
What happens if I fail the Part 2 exam?+
You receive feedback on weaknesses and improvement areas. Appeals are only accepted for practical issues, not academic reasons. Part 1 is machine-graded; Part 2 is double-checked by professionals.
What is the difference between the STA Diploma and CFTe?+
The CFTe is IFTA's two-stage qualification. Level I is like STA Part 1 (MCQs), Level II like STA Part 2 (essay-based). STA students who achieve MSTA status can also obtain the CFTe certificate by paying a $200 fee.
Is the Diploma qualification widely recognised?+
Yes. Passing both exams grants you the STA Diploma and MSTA designation. It’s well regarded and can lead to CFTe certification and CISI exemptions. Full MSTAs with 3+ years' experience may join as full MCSI members.
How many hours should I allow to prepare for the exam(s)?+
A minimum of 3–6 hours per unit in the HSC or per lecture is recommended, plus time for the reading lists for both exams.
Will the STA Diploma help me secure a job as a technical analyst?+
While not a job guarantee, the STA Diploma is a valuable credential that enhances your portfolio and risk analysis skills.
Who is a typical student?+
Typical students are both private and professional investors. Job titles include analyst, trader, portfolio manager, hedge fund manager, and more.