IR Academy | International Certificate in Investor Relations
IN COLLABORATION WITH
IR Academy is the training division of Arwin & Partners dedicated to developing the skills needed to operate with confidence, structure, and professionalism in the world of Investor Relations.
Why study Investor Relations?
Investor Relations is an increasingly central function in the relationship between companies, investors, financial markets, and other stakeholders.
In this context, training becomes an essential tool for strengthening technical skills, professional methodology, and credibility with the financial community.
Our IR Academy was created to provide qualified training programmes for those who work, or wish to work, in Investor Relations.
The Arwin & Partners training approach
IR Academy draws on Arwin & Partners’ experience in strategic consulting across financial communication, Investor Relations, capital markets, ESG, and sustainability.
The goal is to offer training that is closely connected to the real needs of companies, financial markets, and the professionals who manage daily dialogue with investors, analysts, and institutional stakeholders.
Through IR Academy, Arwin & Partners brings to bear expertise developed in support of listed companies, issuers, businesses preparing for IPO, and organisations seeking to strengthen their communication with the market.
At a glance
- Over 2,300 certified professionals
- More than 20 years of history
- Internationallyrecognised qualification
- Certification developed by The Investor Relations Society
International Certificate in Investor Relations
The international certification for IR professionals
Developed by the Investor Relations Society, the ICIR is an internationally recognised professional qualification designed to provide comprehensive preparation across the key aspects of the Investor Relations profession.
The programme enables candidates to build a structured understanding of the IR role, financial and market dynamics, regulatory and reporting requirements for listed companies, and the core principles needed to operate competently in the relationship with investors and stakeholders.
Who is the ICIR for?
The ICIR is designed for professionals already working in Investor Relations or related functions, as well as for those looking to build a career in this field.
Investor Relations Professionals
Professionals already working in an IR function who wish to consolidate their skills through an internationally recognised qualification.
CFOs and Finance Managers
Finance professionals who interact with investors, analysts, financial markets, and institutional stakeholders.
Corporate Communications
Corporate and financial communications professionals who want to develop a deeper understanding of market dynamics and the role of information within the financial community.
ESG and Sustainability Professionals
Professionals involved in communicating ESG performance, non-financial disclosure, and engagement with investors and stakeholders.
Professionals transitioning into an IR role
Individuals looking to move into the world of Investor Relations and gain structured preparation to develop new career opportunities.
What you will learn
Core Investor Relations competencies
The ICIR programme covers the main areas of knowledge required of an IR professional, combining theoretical principles, regulatory context, and practical applications.
What you will gain
A pathway to stronger skills, professional method, and credibility
The International Certificate in Investor Relations enables you to develop a structured understanding of the IR function, deepen your knowledge of financial markets, and acquire skills that can be applied immediately in professional practice.
Upon completing the programme, you will have gained:
- An internationally recognised professional credential
The ICIR allows you to enhance your professional profile with a qualification recognised across the global IR community..
- Greater professional credibility
Greater professional credibility
Strengthen your authority with companies, investors, analysts, and stakeholders.
- Gain clearer insight into how markets work and the logic that drives investor and analyst decision-making.
- Immediately applicable skills
Turn the knowledge acquired into concrete tools for managing Investor Relations activities.
- A stronger grasp of the regulatory environment
Build familiarity with governance frameworks, regulation, and disclosure obligations.
- Greater confidence in engaging with the market
Develop a more informed and effective approach in your relationships with investors, analysts, and stakeholders.
- A more structured working method
Handle the planning and day-to-day management of Investor Relations activities with greater effectiveness.
Optional Courses
Supporting your certification journey
The ICIR pathway can be complemented by two optional courses, designed to support candidates in their preparation and reinforce understanding of the key syllabus topics.
Introduction to IR & Financial Markets
A one-day online course providing an introduction to the world of Investor Relations, listed companies, and financial markets.
The course covers the IR role, how markets function, the main financial stakeholders, the interaction between companies, investors, and analysts, and an overview of reporting obligations.
It is particularly suited to those who wish to build a solid foundation before embarking on the certification pathway.
ICIR Revision Course
A one-day online course designed to support candidates in preparing for the final ICIR exam.
The programme allows candidates to review the key areas of the syllabus, clarify any remaining questions, and consolidate their understanding of the most relevant topics, with particular focus on governance, regulation, and reporting.
It is a valuable resource for approaching the exam with greater confidence and a clear method.
How the ICIR pathway works
The ICIR pathway is structured to allow candidates to prepare flexibly, combining self-study, official materials, online mock exams, and optional courses.
Download the brochure
Download the full brochure for a detailed overview of the programme structure, syllabus, exam format, optional courses, fees, and operational information about the ICIR certification.
Contacts
Request more information
Would you like to receive more details about the International Certificate in Investor Relations or the optional support courses?
Fill in the form and the Arwin & Partners team will get back to you with all the information you need about the programme, enrolment process, and exam preparation.
FAQ
Who is eligible for the ICIR?
The ICIR is suitable for professionals already working in Investor Relations or related fields, as well as those who wish to enter the IR function and develop structured competencies in this area.
How long does preparation take?
Approximately 40 hours of self-study are recommended, though the time required may vary depending on the candidate’s prior experience and familiarity with the topics covered.
How long is the exam?
The exam lasts one hour.
What is the minimum passing score?
A score of 65% or above is required to pass, equivalent to at least 39 correct answers out of 60.
What does the registration fee include?
The registration fee includes access to the official Study Guide, the mock exam platform, and the final exam session.
Are the optional courses compulsory?
No. The optional courses are not compulsory. They are designed to support candidates in their preparation, strengthen understanding of the key syllabus topics, and help them approach the exam with greater confidence.
When are the exams held?
Exam dates are agreed directly with Arwin & Partners, who will contact candidates to confirm the date and time of their exam session.
Is the certification internationally recognised?
Yes. The ICIR is an internationally recognised qualification in the Investor Relations field and is widely recognised as a professional benchmark for those who work, or wish to work, in this area.