Access the Most Requested Policies and Procedures
Admission and Appointment Policy
All candidates must follow these instructions or you will not be admitted into the testing room.
Calculator Policy
Only two calculator models are authorized for use during CFA Program exams.
Deferral Policy
Learn how to qualify for an exam deferral.
Identification Policy
Every CFA Program candidate must have a valid international travel passport to register and sit for the exam.
Personal Belongings Policy
Learn what items are permitted in the testing room, what is not permitted, and COVID testing policy procedures.
The Complete List of CFA Program Policies and Procedures
Admission and Appointment Policy
All candidates must follow these instructions or you will not be admitted into the testing room.
Only two calculator models are authorized for use during CFA Program exams.
As part of the enrollment and registration process, candidates agree to abide by the Candidate Agreement.
Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
The Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct (Code and Standards) are the ethical benchmark for investment professionals around the globe. As a CFA Institute member, CFA Program candidate, or CIPM® Program candidate you are required to follow the Code and Standards.
View our modified exam day procedures that incorporates social distancing and increased safety measures due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Deferral Policy
Learn how to qualify for an exam deferral.
CFA Institute is committed to offering the CFA exam in a manner and location accessible to individuals with disabilities, in compliance with legal regulations. Learn about the requirements for requesting disability accommodations.
Candidates are permitted to take the exam a maximum of two times per calendar year, but not in consecutive windows or windows that are six months or less apart.
CFA Institute requires that every CFA Program candidate have a valid international travel passport to register and sit for the exam.
Identification Document Exceptions
Review examples of Unacceptable Forms of Identification.
Misconduct and Rules Violations
If you engage in any misconduct during the CFA exam, you may be dismissed from the test center and subject to other penalties. Read all Misconduct and Rules Violations.
CFA Institute complies with The Office of Foreign Asset Control ("OFAC") Policy, and is unable to provide services to individuals who live in countries subject to certain sanctions.
Learn what items are permitted in the testing room, what is not permitted, and COVID testing policy procedures.
When you enroll in the CFA Program, you will be prompted to read and acknowledge a candidate privacy notice.
Refund and Withdrawal Policies
For candidates submitting an initial registration, a full refund is available within 14 days of payment. CFA Institute also offers a withdrawal option for all three levels of the exam.
Test center personnel will perform security inspections, including inspection of personal belongings, clothing and eyeglasses, as well as the use of a metal detector wand.
Testing Accommodations Candidate Acknowledgement Policy
Candidate acknowledgement policy for disability accommodation requests.
During testing, candidates are allowed up to two unscheduled breaks.
Payment Methods and Print Curriculum
Learn what payment methods are accepted for the CFA Program. All payments must be made in US dollars.
CFA Program Print Curriculum Information
The print version provides the curriculum as a set of six volumes and can be purchased separately.
Take the Next Step in Your Career
Enroll and register for the CFA exam.
