The world of alternative investments is constantly evolving and the CAIA Association is committed to helping its members stay abreast of new developments in the field. Our curriculum is updated regularly to reflect current issues in alternative investments. To ensure that members are informed about changes to our curriculum, we developed the Self-Evaluation Tool (SET). This web-based tool is intended to help members evaluate their knowledge of alternative investments research and practices using the CAIA curriculum as the benchmark.

The content of the SET is presented in two formats: multiple-choice questions and constructed-response (essay) questions. The 17 multiple-choice questions and 3 constructed-response questions are written by experts in the field of alternative investments who are familiar with the latest developments in the CAIA curriculum. None of the questions are retired from past exams. A rigorous review process follows the question development phase to ensure that the SET meets CAIA’s high standards.

To facilitate learning, the evaluation tool includes an answer key. Upon answering all 20 questions, members immediately receive the correct answers and expanded feedback, accompanied by links to reference materials specific to each question. The reference materials are part of the newly developed CAIA Member Library, available exclusively to CAIA members. Through the library, members have access to articles in the CAIA Association's Level II Core & Integrated Topics book and other resources.

It is important to note that the SET is not an exam and there is no passing standard. The SET is strictly a learning resource. Members are, however, required to complete the SET once every three years to maintain use of the CAIA designation. Members have access to the SET year-round through CAIA.org.

We encourage our members to learn more about CAIA’s SET and hope they will continue to find it useful for their professional development!

Kathy Champagne

Associate Director of Exam Administration