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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 is one level, and you have 6 months to take your exam.

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Exam Format

The CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions to be completed within 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Exam Fees, Costs, and Scheduling

The registration fee for the Certificate in ESG Investing is USD 795. Beginning 1 January 2024, with the updated 2024 Certificate in ESG Investing curriculum, the registration fee will increase to USD 865.

The Certificate in ESG Investing is not yet offered globally. We are working to expand the certificate into additional markets. At this time, for example, we are not able to test candidates on mainland China. This applies to in person testing as well as online proctored exams. We are working with local regulators to obtain approval to test candidates in the region. Once approval is obtained, we will update this notice. Please review the complete list of test center locations before registering.

Once registered, you will have up to 6 months to schedule and sit for 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.

Exam Preparation

The Certificate in ESG Investing curriculum is available in our Learning Ecosystem as well as in print and a downloadable PDF format. The Learning Ecosystem (LES) is a customized online learning program that makes studying engaging, efficient, and effective. It adapts to your needs, strengths, and weaknesses to serve you the right material at the right time and focus on areas you need to work on most. Information about how to access the LES will be included in an email after you register.

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. Read this guide on Understanding Your Exam Result.
  • 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.