The profession's own standards, above and beyond the regulator's rules. The CII Code of Ethics sits at the centre here, along with what it means to be a professional — competence, integrity, and keeping your knowledge current. Questions test the principles and how they apply to real dilemmas.
What code of ethics covers in the R01 exam
- The CII Code of Ethics and its core principles
- Acting with integrity, and in the client's best interests
- Competence, and the duty not to advise beyond it
- Continuing professional development (CPD) and structured learning
- Confidentiality and the proper handling of client information
- Complying with the letter and the spirit of relevant regulation
Where candidates lose marks
Choosing the answer that keeps the client happy over the one the Code actually requires.
Treating CPD as optional once qualified — it is a continuing obligation.
Assuming ethics and compliance are the same thing (see the next area — they are not).
Worked example questions
Real R01-style questions from our bank, with the correct answer and the reasoning. No sign-in needed.
What is the primary purpose of documenting the reasoning behind an ethical decision?
- ATo reduce the number of compliance audits
- BTo accelerate product sales
- CTo shorten client meetings
- DTo maximise commercial efficiency
- ETo provide accountability and evidence of fairnessCorrect
Why: Documenting the rationale ensures transparency, accountability, and provides a record for regulatory or client review.
What is the ethical rationale for reviewing client communications for clarity?
- ATo minimise adviser training costs
- BTo reduce compliance team workload
- CTo ensure clients fully understand advice and outcomesCorrect
- DTo increase discretionary mandates
- ETo shorten suitability reporting time
Why: Clear communications ensure informed decisions and demonstrate fairness in advice delivery.
Which process most clearly supports inclusivity in firm recruitment policies?
- ASelecting candidates solely on adviser referrals
- BWeighting hiring heavily on sales experience alone
- CRecruiting only from specific social groups
- DPrioritising applicants based on family connections
- EUsing blind CV screening to reduce unconscious biasCorrect
Why: Blind CV screening minimises unconscious bias, ensuring fairer recruitment decisions.
Free, exam-style R01 questions across the syllabus, with an explanation for every answer and a per-topic breakdown at the end. The full 100-question mocks come with Pro.
Start free practiceCode of Ethics — questions answered
What is the CII Code of Ethics?
It is the professional standard CII members commit to, built on core principles: act with integrity, act in the client's best interests, act with due care and competence, and comply with the letter and the spirit of relevant rules. R01 tests how it applies to real dilemmas.
Is CPD compulsory after qualifying?
Yes. Continuing professional development is an ongoing obligation, not a one-off — members must keep their knowledge and competence current, which is itself an ethical requirement under the Code.
The other R01 syllabus areas
Independent study material, not affiliated with or endorsed by the Chartered Insurance Institute. Always check the official CII website for the current R01 syllabus, format and fees. The CII sets a nominal pass mark of 65% and adjusts it per sitting.