The SCR Exam Syllabus is designed by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) to equip financial and risk professionals with deep knowledge of climate change, sustainability, ESG integration, and climate-related financial risks. As climate risk becomes a core concern for global financial markets, the SCR certification has emerged as one of the most respected credentials in this domain.
This detailed guide explains the SCR exam syllabus subject-wise, weight-wise, and module-wise, helping candidates clearly understand what to study, how much to focus on each topic, and who should take the exam.
What is the SCR Exam?
The Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR) Exam is a globally recognized certification offered by GARP. It focuses on the financial implications of climate change and sustainability, emphasizing real-world applications rather than purely theoretical concepts.
The SCR exam syllabus combines climate science with financial risk management, governance frameworks, green finance instruments, and scenario analysis.
Why Understanding the SCR Exam Syllabus is Important
A clear understanding of the SCR exam syllabus helps candidates:
- Focus on high-weightage topics
- Prepare strategically and efficiently
- Align study with real-world financial risk practices
- Improve chances of passing the exam on the first attempt
SCR Exam Syllabus Overview
The SCR exam syllabus is divided into multiple core modules, each covering a critical dimension of climate and sustainability risk in finance.
Core Areas Covered
- Climate science fundamentals
- Sustainability and ESG integration
- Climate risk identification and measurement
- Green and sustainable finance
- Climate models and scenario analysis
- Governance, policy, and disclosures
- Net-zero transition and carbon reporting
- Nature-related financial risks
- Practical case studies
SCR Exam Syllabus – Subject-Wise Table
| Module Name | Key Topics Covered | Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations of Climate Change | Climate science, greenhouse gases, global warming | 15–19% |
| Sustainability | ESG frameworks, sustainable investing | 10–15% |
| Climate Change Risk | Physical and transition risks | 10–15% |
| Policy, Culture & Governance | Regulations, governance structures | 10–15% |
| Green & Sustainable Finance | Green bonds, sustainable markets | 10–15% |
| Climate Risk Measurement & Management | Models, stress testing, metrics | 15–19% |
| Climate Models & Scenario Analysis | Climate scenarios, modeling tools | 10–15% |
| Net Zero | Decarbonization strategies | 4–6% |
| Climate & Nature Risk Assessment | Biodiversity and ecosystem risks | 4–6% |
| Case Studies | Real-world financial applications | Integrated |
Detailed SCR Exam Syllabus Explanation
1. Foundations of Climate Change
This module forms the backbone of the SCR exam syllabus. It introduces candidates to the scientific basis of climate change.
Key Topics Include:
- Earth’s climate system
- Greenhouse gases (CO₂, methane, nitrous oxide)
- Global warming vs climate change
- Climate feedback loops
- Physical impacts on ecosystems and economies
Why It Matters:
Financial professionals must understand climate science to assess long-term financial risks accurately.
Weightage: High (15–19%)
2. Sustainability and ESG Integration
This section of the SCR exam syllabus focuses on sustainable development and ESG principles.
Key Topics Include:
- ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors
- Sustainable investing strategies
- Impact investing
- Corporate sustainability metrics
- Integration of ESG into portfolio management
Importance:
ESG has become central to investment decision-making and risk assessment.
Weightage: Medium (10–15%)
3. Climate Change Risk
One of the most practical modules in the SCR exam syllabus, this area explores how climate change translates into financial risk.
Types of Risks Covered:
- Physical Risks: Floods, heatwaves, storms
- Transition Risks: Policy changes, technology shifts
- Liability Risks: Legal and reputational issues
Applications:
- Credit risk
- Market risk
- Operational risk
Weightage: Medium (10–15%)
4. Policy, Culture, and Governance
This module explains how regulatory frameworks and corporate governance shape climate risk management.
Key Topics Include:
- Global climate policies (Paris Agreement)
- Regulatory expectations for financial institutions
- Corporate culture and accountability
- Role of boards and senior management
Why It’s Important:
Strong governance ensures effective climate risk oversight.
Weightage: Medium (10–15%)
5. Green and Sustainable Finance
This is a core part of the SCR exam syllabus, focusing on financial instruments designed to support sustainability.
Key Topics Include:
- Green bonds and sustainability bonds
- Climate finance markets
- Sustainable lending and insurance
- Role of financial institutions in climate transition
Real-World Relevance:
Green finance is critical to funding global climate goals.
Weightage: Medium (10–15%)
6. Climate Risk Measurement and Management
This is one of the highest-weightage sections of the SCR exam syllabus.
Key Topics Include:
- Climate risk metrics
- Data sources and limitations
- Stress testing frameworks
- Risk mitigation strategies
Why It Matters:
Institutions must measure and manage climate risk systematically to remain resilient.
Weightage: High (15–19%)
7. Climate Models and Scenario Analysis
This module focuses on forward-looking risk assessment tools.
Key Topics Include:
- Climate models (IAMs, GCMs)
- NGFS climate scenarios
- Scenario-based stress testing
- Use of models in financial planning
Practical Value:
Scenario analysis helps institutions prepare for uncertain climate futures.
Weightage: Medium (10–15%)
8. Net Zero and Transition Planning
This lower-weightage section of the SCR exam syllabus addresses decarbonization strategies.
Key Topics Include:
- Net-zero targets
- Transition pathways
- Carbon accounting
- Emissions reporting standards
Weightage: Low (4–6%)
9. Climate and Nature Risk Assessment
This emerging topic expands beyond climate to include nature-related risks.
Key Topics Include:
- Biodiversity loss
- Ecosystem services
- Nature-related financial disclosures
- Integration with climate risk
Importance:
Nature risks can amplify financial and systemic risks.
Weightage: Low (4–6%)
10. Case Studies and Practical Applications
Case studies are embedded throughout the SCR exam syllabus.
Examples Include:
- S&P Global climate risk integration
- HSBC climate stress testing
- Real-world portfolio adjustments
Purpose:
To test application of concepts, not rote learning.
SCR Exam Weightage Summary
| Weight Category | Subjects Included |
|---|---|
| High (15–19%) | Foundations of Climate Change, Climate Risk Measurement & Management |
| Medium (10–15%) | Sustainability, Climate Change Risk, Policy & Governance, Green Finance, Scenario Analysis |
| Low (4–6%) | Net Zero, Climate & Nature Risk Assessment |
Who Should Study the SCR Exam Syllabus?
The SCR exam syllabus is ideal for:
- Risk managers
- Investment professionals
- Portfolio managers
- ESG analysts
- Banking and insurance professionals
- Policymakers and consultants
Career Benefits of SCR Certification
Understanding the SCR exam syllabus prepares candidates for roles such as:
- Climate Risk Analyst
- ESG Consultant
- Sustainable Finance Manager
- Risk and Compliance Officer
Final Thoughts on SCR Exam Syllabus
The SCR exam syllabus is comprehensive, practical, and future-oriented. It reflects the growing importance of climate and sustainability risks in global finance. By mastering each module strategically—especially high-weightage areas—candidates can confidently clear the exam and enhance their professional credibility.
Important Link
| Official Website | Click Here |
| Syllabus PDF | Click Here |
FAQs – SCR Exam Syllabus
Q1. Is the SCR exam syllabus technical?
No, it focuses more on conceptual understanding and real-world application.
Q2. Which section has the highest weightage in the SCR exam syllabus?
Climate Risk Measurement & Management and Foundations of Climate Change.
Q3. Is finance knowledge mandatory for SCR?
Basic finance knowledge is helpful but not mandatory.
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