Stay Professionally Relevant in Constantly
Shifting Markets
The line between “traditional” and “alternative” investments is vanishing. And what was once considered “non-traditional” is quickly becoming the core of global finance.
With the CAIA Charter, you don’t just learn a framework, you build the judgment and cross-disciplinary fluency to lead through complexity.
Stay relevant, build influence, and earn the confidence to navigate what’s coming next by becoming a CAIA Candidate.
What You’ll Need to Succeed
There are no hard requirements to register for the CAIA exam. But success in the program starts with the right foundation. We recommend that Candidates have:
A solid grasp of the financial services industry
Completed coursework in corporate finance and statistics
English proficiency (reading + writing)
Possess an ID that meets CAIA exam ID policy guidelines
Residency in a country not restricted by OFAC policy
Have questions? Our support team is here to help.
Ready to Begin?
- Create a CAIA account and register for the exam.
- Schedule your exam at a time and test center that works for you.
- Start studying using our digital curriculum, prep tools, and study plans.
Key Dates and Fees
Next Exam Windows
Level I: August 31 – September 11, 2026
Level II: September 14 – 25, 2026
Registration Fees
One-time enrollment fee
US$400
Exam early registration
US$995
Exam standard registration
US$1,395
Frequently Asked Questions
The CAIA (Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst) Association is the leading professional body for alternative investment education and credentialing. The organization supports the global investment industry by offering the CAIA Charter and a portfolio of education, research, and thought-leadership initiatives.
The CAIA curricula are written and prepared by the CAIA Association and are the only resource used to write exams. Program materials are reviewed and updated annually by industry experts and practitioners. For your convenience, the Level I and Level II curriculum is available in digital format and included with each new Candidate registrations. You may also purchase a print version here.
Registration for the September 2026 exams is available from April 13, 2026 – August 3, 2026. A US$400 discount applies for early registrations completed by June 8, 2026.
A minimum of 200 hours of study time is recommended for each exam level. The Level I and Level II exams are offered twice each year, in September and March, giving Candidates the opportunity to complete the CAIA program within a single year, should they choose to do so. The average candidate completes the program in 12 to 18 months, depending on experience and schedule.
After passing the Level II exam you are eligible, with relevant professional experience, to join the CAIA Association as a Member and receive the CAIA Charter. You will be part of an elite group of more than 14,000 professionals worldwide. Only after joining the Association are you eligible to add the CAIA designation to your professional profiles.