The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Program is one of the most respected financial certifications worldwide. To earn the CFA charter, you must pass three levels of exams. However, the first step to this involves CFA exam registration.
This registration process is not very complicated, but it mandates your careful attention to deadlines and requirements. This blog will walk you through CFA exam registration for 2025, covering important steps, dates, fees, and useful tips.
How to complete your CFA exam registration
The CFA exam leads you to high-paying roles in investment banking, portfolio management, and risk analysis. If you are appearing for the exam in 2025, here is a step-by-step guide on the CFA exam registration process for you:
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before registering, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria:
| Criteria | Why is it needed? |
| Qualification |
|
| Valid passport | For registration and admission |
| Professional Conduct Statement form | Attested to your adherence to ethical and professional standard usage |
| Computer skills | Necessary |
Step 2: Choose your exam level and window
The CFA Program is structured across three levels, each building upon the previous one. Candidates must pass each level sequentially:
- Level I: Requires meeting the educational or work experience criteria.
- Level II: Candidates must have passed Level I.
- Level III: Candidates must have passed Level II.
Each level has different registration windows throughout the year.
| Level | Exam period | Registration opens | Early registration deadline | Standard registration deadline | Exam dates |
| Level I | February | 9 May 2024 | 9 July 2024 | 7 November 2024 | 17-23 Feb 2025 |
| May | 8 August 2024 | 16 October 2024 | 6 February 2025 | 14-20 May 2025 | |
| August | 13 February 2025 | 17 April 2025 | 9 July 2025 | 18-24 August 2025 | |
| November | 12 February 2025 | 9 April 2025 | 5 August 2025 | 12-18 November 2025 | |
| Level II | February | 9 May 2024 | 9 July 2024 | 7 November 2024 | 13-16 Feb 2025 |
| May | 8 August 2024 | 16 October 2024 | 6 February 2025 | 14-17 May 2025 | |
| August | 13 February 2025 | 17 April 2025 | 9 July 2025 | 18-21 August 2025 | |
| November | 12 February 2025 | 9 April 2025 | 5 August 2025 | 12-18 November 2025 | |
| Level III | May | 8 August 2024 | 16 October 2024 | 6 February 2025 | 14-25 May 2025 |
| August | 13 February 2025 | 17 April 2025 | 9 July 2025 | 18-24 August 2025 |
Step 3: Create an account on the CFA Institute website
Go to the official CFA Institute website and create an account. Ensure all details are correct, as they cannot be changed later. You must provide:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Date of birth
- Email address
- Educational qualifications
- Work experience (if applicable)
Step 4: Register for the CFA exam
Once your account is set up, follow these steps:
- Select your CFA exam level between Level I, II, or III.
- Pick an exam month based on availability.
- Choose a test centre near you. It is conducted in multiple cities worldwide.
- Agree to the CFA candidate agreement.
- Pay the registration fee.
Your CFA exam registration is confirmed once you receive a confirmation email from the CFA Institute.
Step 5: Pay the CFA exam fees
CFA exam registration fees depend on when you register. As the payment method, you can choose between credit cards, debit cards, and wire transfers. Exam fees are non-refundable, except under exceptional circumstances.
The CFA exam registration fees for 2025 are:
| Fee type | Level I | Level II | Level III |
| One-time enrollment fee (only for Level I) | USD 350 | NA | NA |
| Early registration | USD 990 | USD 990 | USD 1,090 |
| Standard registration | USD 1,290 | USD 1,290 | USD 1,390 |
Step 6: Appear for the exam
Once registered, start preparing immediately. Only for the Level I exam, you get 135 minutes. For both Level II and Level III, you need to finish your exam within 4 hours and 24 minutes. On exam day:
- Arrive 30 minutes early at the test centre.
- Carry a valid passport and approved calculator (BA II Plus or HP 12C).
- Follow all exam security guidelines.
Final tips for CFA exam registration
Apart from the steps, there are some other measures you need to keep in mind. They are:
- Register early to save money and secure your preferred exam date.
- Double-check your details before submission.
- You get your results via email. Check results for Level I and II within 6-7 weeks after the exam. The Level III result comes out within 8-10 weeks after the exam.
Conclusion
The CFA exam registration process may seem complex, but breaking it down into steps makes it easier to manage. Preparing for the CFA exam requires dedication and discipline. Stick to a structured study plan, use the right resources, and stay committed to your goal.
With the right approach, you can clear all three levels and earn the prestigious CFA charter. Good luck!
FAQs
- What happens if I miss the CFA exam registration deadline?
Wait for the next exam cycle if you missed the deadline. The CFA Institute does not allow late registrations after the final deadline.
- Can I defer my CFA exam after registering?
Deferrals are only allowed for specific circumstances like medical emergencies, military service, or natural disasters. You must submit a request with supporting documents to the CFA Institute.
- Can I register for multiple CFA levels in the same year?
You must pass Level I before registering for Level II, and pass Level II before registering for Level III. You cannot take multiple levels in one exam window.
