Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum

Candidates enrolling in the CAIA program are presumed to have an understanding of the basic concepts of finance and quantitative analysis. The Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum materials are available for your optional use in determining whether you possess this knowledge.

The Guide to Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum organizes these foundational concepts into topics and learning objectives. CAIA candidates are expected to possess the knowledge and quantitative analysis skills covered in the Guide to Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum and to apply them on the CAIA Level I and II exams.

The Self-Evaluation for Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum is an optional tool designed to help you determine your readiness to begin the CAIA program. Additional information about the Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum can be found in the Guide to Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum. These resources are provided solely for your optional use in determining your readiness for the CAIA program.

Using the Self-Evaluation for Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum

  1. Log on to CAIA.org to take the Self-Evaluation.
  2. If your score on the Self-Evaluation indicates that you need further study in the concepts and topics in the Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum, review the Guide to Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum. If necessary, work through the recommended readings in those areas.
  3. You can take the Self-Evaluation again to reassess your knowledge.

Foundations of the CAIA Curriculum Recommended Readings

ISBN Book Purchase from Amazon.com Purchase from Barnes & Noble
978-0470052204 Defusco, Richard A., Dennis W. McLeavey, Jerald E. Pinto, and David E. Runkle. Quantitative Investment Analysis. 2nd ed. New Jersey: John Wiley and Sons Inc, 2007. Buy Buy
978-0073530703 Bodie, Zvi, Alex Kane, and Alan J. Marcus. Investments, 9th edition. New York: McGraw-Hill Irwin, 2010. Buy Buy