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Exam Overview

The CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing uses a self-study model that can be tailored to fit your schedule. The program has one level; your exam can be scheduled within one year of registering.

man and woman looking at computer

Exam Format

The CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing exam:

  • Consists of 100 questions in total, split between the following question types:
    ○ Standard multiple choice questions, and
    ○ Item set questions. Item sets consist of a vignette followed by 4-6 multiple choice questions which can be answered based on the information provided in the vignette.

  • To be completed within 2 hours and 20 minutes

  • Administered in person at test centers in select markets*

  • Online proctoring is available, depending on local regulations and system capability 

    *ProProctor remote proctoring for CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing is not available in all markets at this time. Please check if remote examination or a physical test center is available in your area before registering.

Exam Fees, Costs, and Scheduling

Exam Registration Fee

USD 675

You can register for the Certificate in ESG Investing, USD 675. You may choose to purchase a hard copy of the syllabus (the Official Training Manual) after registration for an additional USD135 + shipping.

Read about changes to the 2023 ESG Curriculum before you register.

Register

Once registered, you will have up to one full year to schedule your exam with Prometric. We recommend beginning to study before scheduling. Then depending on your study pacing, schedule your exam one month prior to your desired exam period. At a minimum, allow 2 working days after receiving your registration confirmation to schedule your exam.

If you do not schedule your exam within this period, you may re-register for USD 475.

Which Option is Right for You: In-Person Site Testing or Online Proctored Testing

CFA Institute now offers two different ways to take your exam: In-Person Site Testing (IST) at a testing center, or Online Proctored Testing (OPT), where you may take the test at home if you meet certain strict vendor requirements.

Want to learn more about these options?

Online Proctored Testing (OPT)

In Person Testing (IST)

Take a Test Drive in Each Experience

In-Person Site Testing (IST) Online Proctored Testing (OPT)
Testing Procedure
  • Select a test date, time, and location from a list of available sites and test windows
  • On exam day, report in person to the testing site
  • Exam is monitored by onsite proctors
  • Select a test date and time from a list of open test windows
  • Online proctors conduct the exam, including:
    • Guiding candidates through setup of system and testing room
    • Verifying candidate identity (valid ID)
    • Monitoring entire exam
General Testing Requirements
  • Arrive on time to testing site
  • Bring a valid ID
  • Identification name must exactly match registration name

Proper Environment

  • Well-lit, fully enclosed room
  • Privacy for entire length of exam

Equipment & Internet Capabilities

  • Reliable, wired internet or strong wi-fi connection
  • Laptop or desktop computer capable of downloading vendor software (ProProctor) and passing system check
  • Dedicated power source
  • Ability to show 360-degree view of testing room
Questions to Answer Before You Register and/or Schedule
Questions to Answer Before Test Day

Exam Results

  • Exams are graded as either "pass" or "did not pass," along with detailed performance feedback.
  • Your exam results will be provided on-screen at the end of your examination, and a copy will be emailed to you.
  • You can access your score report to view your results within 24 hours of exam completion via https://scorereports.prometric.com/
  • Your results will also be available in your CFA Institute account within 14 days of your completed exam appointment.