A new era of portfolio construction has emerged.

Join the credential and professional network that is shaping the future of investing.
Earn the CAIA Charter.

When it comes to distinguishing the key trends developing in the industry – from the rise of private debt and digital assets to new ways of thinking about geopolitical risk, ethics, and portfolio construction, the CAIA credential is your key advantage.

Why invest in a CAIA designation?

Industry Recognition

Advance your career with globally-recognized knowledge and credibility in alternative investments.

Explore Membership

Emerging Trends

Create opportunities with new insights within emerging industries, advanced tech, and niche markets and be able to recognize evolving strategies for future innovation.

Review Curriculum

Gain Long-Term Sustainability

In today’s rapidly changing economic, geopolitical, regulatory, and social setting, long-term stewardship of assets requires interdisciplinary knowledge.

Uncover Insights

 

you're in good company

13
13K
MEMBERS

WORLDWIDE
35
35
CHAPTERS AROUND

THE GLOBE
80
80
ACADEMIC & ASSOCIATION

PARTNERSHIPS

The CAIA Curriculum: Built by Investors, for Investors.

CAIA

In an era where the boundaries between traditional and alternative assets have evaporated, and where cutting-edge strategies and interdisciplinary insights are essential, the CAIA curriculum is a key advantage that meets the evolving demands of institutional investors.

Discover How

The official CAIA Curriculum is included with your program registration at no additional cost, and is updated regularly to incorporate relevant, practical industry developments, and the latest academic research.

We’re here to help.

Contact CAIA and let one of our knowledgeable staff answer your questions.

Contact Us

 

Explore Our Study Resources

Check out our updated study tools.

Learn More

Curriculum TOPICS

Level I

  • Professional Standards and Ethics
  • Introduction to Alternative Investments
  • Real Assets
  • Private Equity
  • Private Debt
  • Hedge Funds
  • Digital Assets
  • Additional Strategies

Level II

  • Emerging Topics
  • Universal Investment Considerations
  • Models
  • Institutional Asset Owners and Investment Policies
  • Risk and Risk Management
  • Methods for Alternative Investments
  • Accessing Alternative Investments
  • Due Diligence and Selecting Managers
  • Volatility and Complex Strategies

 

90%

of CAIA Members indicated that the CAIA designation has helped them to better serve the end investor.

Demonstrate your commitment to superior professionalism, upholding industry standards, and continued learning with the CAIA Charter.

 

Having recognized the significant growth displayed by alternative investments in the global economy, I decided to invest my time and energy into the CAIA program to become an expert in the field.

Lee Moroney, CAIA, Associate Director, Clearwater Advisors, Cayman Islands

 

Successful completion of the two exams puts you among an elite group of more than 13,000 professionals worldwide.

Register Now

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

All you need to know about the CAIA Exam, including resources available for you to thrive.

 

Who will benefit from enrolling in the CAIA program?
Professionals who want to develop a deep level of knowledge and demonstrated expertise in alternative investments and their contribution to the diversified portfolio should pursue the CAIA Charter including,
  • Asset Allocators
  • Risk managers
  • Analysts
  • Portfolio managers
  • Traders
  • Consultants
  • Business development/marketing
  • Operations
  • Advisors
How many exams will I need to take?
The CAIA Charter is granted upon completion of two levels of qualifying exams, combined with relevant professional experience. However, CFA charterholders may be eligible for a CAIA Level I exam waiver. See eligibility requirements here.
What study materials are available?
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 curriculum is available digitally and included with a paid exam registration.
When is the next CAIA Exam?
The Level I CAIA Exam will be administered from March 4, 2024 – March 15, 2024; the Level II CAIA Exam window is from March 18, 2024 – March 29, 2024.
What is the registration deadline?
Early registration – which offers a US$400 discount for first-time Candidates – begins October 9, 2023 and ends on December 4, 2023. Regular registration ends on February 12, 2024.
What is the cost of the CAIA Charter program? 
For first-time Level I registrants, there is a one-time enrollment fee of US$400 plus a standard registration cost that includes the digital curriculum of US$1,395. Learn more about our early registration discount and fee policies here.
Do I have to take the exam in person?
No. We offer an online-proctored option as well. Carefully read the OnVUE physical and system requirements to determine if you meet the technology requirements.
What is the timeline for completing the program?
A minimum of 200 hours of study time is recommended for each level of exam. 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.
What do I achieve after successfully completing the program?
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 13,000 professionals worldwide. Only after joining the Association are you eligible to add the CAIA designation to your professional profiles.

Register today for the CAIA exam to get a globally-recognized credential that will provide you with a clear career path – become a CAIA Charterholder.

Register Now