CFA program changes start with the registrations for February 2024 exam round

CFA Program is going through an evolution that is bigger than ever since its creation. These changes will keep it up-to-date and further solidify its role as the premier investment analysis credential. Below are six updates in the program with the timeline:

Expanded Eligibility

Expanded program eligibility rules for those in university means that students can kickstart their career while still in study mode—and stand out from the crowd for internships and early career roles. CFA Institute has extended CFA Program candidate eligibility by one year to include university students with two years remaining in their undergraduate studies.

Hands-On Learning

Self-contained, Practical Skills Modules at each level teach on-the-job: the CFA Program has been expanded to include practical, relevant skills training to provide candidates with on-the-job application of what they are learning in the curriculum. (Level I candidates beginning with the February 2024 exam, Level II candidates with August 2024 exam round)

Focused Curriculum

A sharpened focus on what is practically relevant, while providing optional reference readings for candidates who wish to review or reference the basics, overall study time is more aligned to the brand promise of 300 hours. (Beginning with February 2024 exam)

Practice Pack

A suite of additional prep materials for Level I, including extra practice questions and mock exams from the authors of the CFA Program. CFA Institute is now offering a Level I Practice Pack that includes 1,000 more practice questions and six additional mock exams to go with the study materials currently received as part of registration.(Available for purchase in May 2023 with February 2024 Program enrollment and exam registration)

Level III Specialized Pathways

Candidates will soon be able to focus on the traditional Portfolio Management track, or to pursue one of two new pathways in Private Wealth or Private Markets. The three versions will have a 'common core' of curriculum at Level III, supplemented by specialized content for each pathway. All three will be in pursuit of one credential: the CFA Charter. (Beginning with the February 2025 exam round)

Digital Badges for Level I and Level II

Recognizing the achievements of candidates with digital badges along the way will assist candidates in their career paths and be a proof-point to employers of a candidate's commitment through their learned skills and experience, professionalism and ethical practices. The digital badges will be accompanied by marketing and awareness-building with employers, to improve the visibility and value placed on progress through the Program. They will be clearly distinguished in the market, have one-click social sharing and offer instant verification to employers and colleagues to boost credibility and solidify candidates’ accomplishment. (Beginning from 2023)