How to earn and maintain the CIPM designation

The following steps detail how to earn your CIPM designation and maintain your status with ongoing professional learning opportunities:

1. Enroll in the CIPM Program by registering for the Level I exam

There are no entrance requirements for Level I. If you’re a CFA Charterholder or have successfully completed the Level III CFA exam, you can register directly for Level II.

2. Complete Level I and Level II exams

CIPM exams are offered in March and September.

3. Become a regular member of CFA Institute

You need to be a regular member of the CFA Institute to earn the CIPM designation. Learn more about applying for membership.

4. Maintain your Mandatory Professional Learning (MPL)

As a CIPM designation holder, you need to complete at least 15 credits each year to maintain your designation.

Who should enroll

The Certificate in Investment Performance Measurement is particularly beneficial if you work in one of the following roles:

  • Investment Performance Analyst
  • Investment Consultant
  • Portfolio Manager
  • Risk Analysts / Managers
  • Compliance Officer
  • Financial Adviser / Planner
  • Manager of managers

Study tools to support your learning

The Learning Ecosystem is a comprehensive digital learning platform, available when you register for the CIPM Program. Adaptive and mobile-friendly, it lets you learn at your own pace, when and where it’s convenient for you.

Through the Learning Ecosystem, you’ll access the official program curriculum as well as study tools like personalised study plans, mock exams, flashcards, and more.

CIPM Program: Is it right for me?

Take the readiness assessment

The CIPM Program curriculum prepares you in effective investment performance (return and risk) evaluation, manager selection, and investment reporting based on the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS®) standards.

Frequently asked questions

There are no specific prerequisites for enrolling in the CIPM Program, although candidates typically have some experience in investment performance measurement, analysis, or a related field.

Earning the CIPM designation helps professionals gain advanced knowledge in performance attribution, GIPS® Standards, and risk management, improving career prospects and credibility in the investment industry.

The CIPM Program consists of two levels and can typically be completed within 18 months, depending on the candidate’s pace of study and other commitments.

From studying through to exam day and beyond, there is a variety of resources to help you successfully complete the CIPM Program. Visit CIPM Program candidate resources to learn more.

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