Pre-exam day preparation

In addition to studying for the CFA® exam, you also need to prepare for exam day. Here is a high-level timeline of steps to take to get exam-ready.

Several months prior to exam day

Review the testing policies.
Confirm your valid international travel passport – the only type of identification accepted – does not expire before your exam date and the name in your CFA® Institute account matches the name on your international travel passport. If your passport expires prior to exam day, read the identification exceptions. Review your passport information (sign-in required).
Familiarize yourself with the exam software features.

Connect with us and your peers on social to stay up-to-date on the latest news.

Decide when you will complete your Practical Skills Module. You must complete at least one Practical Skills Module to receive your exam result.

Practical skills Modules are required for:

Log in to your CFA Program tile and review your exam date, time, and location.
Plan your travel route to the test center on exam day. We recommend you arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time.
Review the Rules of Procedure for Professional Conduct (PDF).
Get familiar with the exam format:
Familiarize yourself with the software features of the exam in this tutorial before your scheduled exam date. Don’t make the mistake of exiting your exam early!

Log in to your CFA Program tile and review your exam date, time, and location.
Know how to clear the memory of your calculator. You will be instructed to do so before you begin your exam.
Be sure to read the entire Personal Belongings Policy. No jewelry (other than wedding or engagement rings), ornate hair clips, headbands, combs, barrettes, tie clips, or cufflinks are permitted.