What has changed in the new ESG curriculum?

• The 2023 ESG curriculum will include content updates and additional end of chapter questions/response explanations. A summary of changes to the content of the ESG Program will be published to our website by 10 October.
• Registered candidates will be able to access the 2023 ESG curriculum in the Learning Ecosystem beginning 1 December.
• Exam will be 100% multiple choice; all item set eliminated
• Exam question format will align with CFA style guide; some of the more significant changes:
  • 3 answer choices
  • Clear rationales for correct and incorrect answers
  • No K-Type questions
  • Direct LOS support
• Minimum passing score will switch from being determined through standard setting followed by pre-equated process to a proportion correct score derived from the original MPS.

What if a candidate is already registered and studying the current curriculum?

For candidates who wish to sit for their exam in 2023, they will be tested on the new 2023 curriculum. Access to the LES for information about curriculum changes will be provided. Testing can be scheduled on the 2023 curriculum beginning 1 February.

Why is there no testing in January 2023?

The pause in exam scheduling provides a clean break between when the two versions of the curriculum are testing. It also provides a buffer period for contingency scheduling for the few candidates who must test on the current curriculum.

Can a candidate request a contingency exam appointment in January?

No. There are a small number of candidates who have existing exam appointments in January. They have been informed that they will need to reschedule at no cost.

Has the length of the ESG Program changed for currently registered candidates?

No. Candidates who register through 30 November 2022 continue to have 12 months to complete the program. Candidates who register beginning 1 December 2022 will have six months to sit for their exam.

Q: What is the Certificate in ESG Investing?

A: The CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing offers you both practical application and technical knowledge in the fast-growing field of ESG investing — an opportunity to both accelerate progress and demonstrate purpose.

Q: Why should I take the Certificate in ESG Investing?

A: Developed in consultation with leading firms, the certificate will enable you to expand your ESG knowledge and stay ahead in your field. It has been designed for practitioners working in investment roles who want to learn how to analyze and integrate material ESG factors into their day-to-day roles.

It will also be suitable for anyone looking to improve their understanding of ESG issues working in:

• sales & distribution
• wealth management
• product development
• financial advice
• consulting
• risk

The skills learned will be equally applicable to all asset classes.

Q: How will the Certificate in ESG Investing benefit me and my career?

• Gain a unique and practical qualification
• Improve your competitive career advantage and increase your employability
• Expand your ESG knowledge and stay ahead in your field
• CFA Institute qualifications are recognized by leading firms
• Develop the skills and competencies to fulfill both your fiduciary responsibilities and your firm’s responsible investment mandates
• Gain a digital badge to highlight to others the skills you have acquired

Q: How do candidates register for the Certificate in ESG Investing?

A: Registration is a two-step process, completed online via the CFA Institute website. When clicking “Register Now,” users will be prompted to create an account with CFA Institute and once complete, users may register and pay for the Certificate in ESG Investing.

Q: What are the entry criteria?

A: There are no formal entry criteria for this qualification, but it is strongly recommended that candidates have a solid grounding in the investment process achieved via formal qualification or experience.

Q: What do candidates receive when they register?

A: When you register for the Certificate in ESG Investing, you will have access to the Learning Ecosystem, which includes the following resources:

• The syllabus
• Digital version of the curriculum
• Self-assessment questions
• Mock exam

Q: How much is the ESG exam?

A: The ESG examination and online learning materials cost USD 795. This includes the exam sitting and access to a digital copy of the curriculum There is no option for candidates to purchase the exam only. The exam fee is paid through a secure online payment screen.

Q: How long do candidates have to complete their studies and the ESG exam?

A: Once registered, you will have up to 6 months to schedule your exam with Prometric. We recommend beginning to study before scheduling. Then depending on your study pacing, schedule your exam one month prior to your desired exam period. At a minimum, allow 2 working days after receiving your registration confirmation to schedule your exam. If you do not schedule your exam within this period, you may re-register for USD 595.

We are excited to announce that the 2023 curriculum will be available in our Learning Ecosystem as well as in print and a downloadable PDF format. The Learning Ecosystem (LES) is a customized online learning program that makes studying engaging, efficient, and effective. It adapts to your needs, strengths, and weaknesses to serve you the right material at the right time and focus on areas you need to work on most. Information about how to access the LES will be included in an email after you register.

When you register for the Certificate in ESG Investing, you will have access to the Learning Ecosystem, which includes the following resources:

• The syllabus
• Digital version of the curriculum
• Self-assessment questions
• Mock exam

Q: How long does it take to study for the Certificate in ESG Investing?

A: The recommended study time for the Certificate in ESG Investing is 100+ hours. Depending on your existing level of investment expertise and knowledge of ESG factors you may take fewer hours to successfully study for the exam.

CFA Institute now offers two different ways to take your exam: In-Person Site Testing (IST) at a testing center, or Online Proctored Testing (OPT), where you may take the test at home if you meet certain strict vendor requirements.

Want to learn more about these options?

Online Proctored Testing (OPT)

In Person Testing (IST)

Take a Test Drive in Each Experience

Q: What is the length and format of the exam?

A: 100 questions assessed by multiple choice questions and item set scenarios. The total time allowed for the exam is 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Q: Is the exam available in other languages apart from English?

A: No, the exam will only be available in English.

Q: How many times can I sit the ESG exam?

A: Candidates are limited to three attempts within six months.

Q: How do I get my exam results?

A: Exams are graded as either “pass” or “did not pass,” along with detailed performance feedback.
Your exam results will be provided on-screen at the end of your examination, and a copy will be emailed to you.
You can access your score report to view your results within 24 hours of exam completion via https://scorereports.prometric.com/
Your results will also be available in your CFA Institute account within 14 days of your completed exam appointment.

Q: How do I reference that I am an ESG Certificate?

A: Successful candidates should state clearly that they have achieved the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing. There is no designation associated with the Certificate and ESG should not appear after your name.