CII IF7 study plan

Map the full IF7 claims-handling syllabus into a personal topic list and rate each topic as strong, shaky, or unknown

Define the core claims-handling sequence from first notification through to settlement and closure, and write it out in your own words

Explain the roles of the policyholder, broker, loss adjuster, insurer, and third parties at each stage of a claim

Identify the main regulatory and conduct obligations that shape how a UK claim must be handled

Describe how notification is received, validated, and recorded, including the information a handler must capture at first contact

Explain the purpose and content of a claims notification or first advice, and how it differs from a formal claim form

Outline how claims are triaged and reserved, and why early reserving matters

Distinguish the handler's duties around acknowledging, investigating, and communicating within set timeframes

Explain how policy coverage is confirmed against the wording, including exclusions, conditions, and warranties

Describe how a handler investigates a claim, gathers evidence, and uses adjusters or experts appropriately

Apply the principles of indemnity, subrogation, and contribution to straightforward claim scenarios

Identify common fraud indicators and outline the handler's response when fraud is suspected

Explain how liability is assessed and quantified in third-party and property claims

Describe the main heads of loss and how quantum is calculated and evidenced

Outline how negotiation and settlement authority work, including escalation and referral

Distinguish settlement methods and explain when each is appropriate

Explain how claims are reserved, reviewed, and reported, including the role of case reserves and IBNR

Describe the handler's role in detecting and reporting suspicious or large claims

Outline how complaints, disputes, and declined claims are handled and communicated

Explain the handler's obligations on data protection, confidentiality, and record keeping

Explain how subrogation and recovery are pursued, including evidence and time limits

Describe how reinsurance and co-insurance affect the handling of a claim from the handler's perspective

Outline how claims handling interacts with brokers, clients, and third-party service providers

Identify the main conduct risks in claims handling and how they are managed

Complete a full timed mock exam under realistic conditions

Mark the mock against the mark scheme and categorise every lost mark as knowledge, application, or technique

Re-study the two weakest topics identified from the mock

Practise structuring answers so that each point earns marks clearly and concisely

Revise the error log and confirm each weak area is now understood

Complete a second timed mock and compare scores with the first

Recite the key definitions, timeframes, and process steps from memory

Finalise exam-day strategy covering timing, question selection, and answer structure