Before beginning the CFA journey, it is essential to understand the CFA exam eligibility requirements for 2026. Registration for the CFA exams is not open-ended. The CFA Institute has clearly defined education and professional experience criteria that candidates must satisfy. Many aspirants are unsure whether CFA can be pursued after Class 12, whether a bachelor’s degree is mandatory, whether undergraduate students can register, or whether work experience is required. This guide explains CFA eligibility in a clear, structured, and level-wise manner.
Educational Qualification Requirements
Eligibility for CFA Level I
- They have already completed a bachelor’s degree from a recognised institution
- They are currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree and their selected exam window falls within 23 months of their graduation month
This flexibility allows students to begin the CFA Program while still in college. However, it is important to note that although Level I and Level II can be attempted before graduation, the bachelor’s degree must be completed before appearing for CFA Level III.
Eligibility for CFA Level II
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree
- An expected graduation date that is within 11 months of the Level II exam window
Because of the shorter eligibility window, undergraduate students must plan their Level II attempt carefully to avoid registration issues.
Eligibility for CFA Level III Exam
While passing Level III completes the examination component of the CFA Program, earning the CFA charter also requires relevant professional experience. To be awarded the charter, candidates must:
- Pass all three CFA exam levels
- Complete 4,000 hours of qualified professional work experience
- Accumulate this experience over a minimum period of 36 months
This work experience can be gained before, during, or after completing the CFA exams.
Work Experience–Based Eligibility Route
- At least 4,000 hours of a combination of professional work experience and/or higher education
- The experience must be accumulated over a minimum of three years
The work performed should involve professional-level responsibilities that contribute to the investment decision-making process. Examples include financial analysis, investment research, valuation, portfolio analysis, or risk assessment. The CFA Institute evaluates each candidate’s experience individually, and final eligibility approval rests entirely with the Institute.
Age Requirement for the CFA Exam
Passport Requirement for CFA Registration
- The passport is valid at the time of registration
- The passport remains valid on the exam day
No other form of identification is accepted at Prometric test centres. Candidates without a valid passport will not be allowed to appear for the exam.
CFA Eligibility for Students and Graduates in India
Candidates who have already completed a bachelor’s degree are eligible to register for CFA Levels I, II, and III, subject to Level III degree requirements. The CFA Institute does not impose any restriction on academic background. Students from commerce, engineering, science, arts, or other disciplines are all eligible to pursue the CFA Program.
What Type of Work Experience Qualifies for CFA
- Equity or investment research
- Portfolio or fund analysis
- Financial analysis and valuation
- Risk management
Corporate finance roles involving financial modelling or decision support
CFA Eligibility for Indian Students
CFA Exam Registration Requirements for 2026
- The CFA exams are conducted entirely in English and are administered in a computer-based format at Prometric test centres worldwide. The CFA exams and curriculum are delivered in English, so good proficiency greatly improves your chances of understanding the syllabus and performing well in the exam.At the time of registration, candidates must agree to comply with the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. Any violation of these ethical standards may result in exam cancellation, suspension, or permanent disqualification from the CFA Program.
Who Is Not Eligible for the CFA Exam
- Their graduation date falls outside the permitted eligibility timelines
- They do not meet the required education or professional work-experience criteria
- They do not possess a valid passport on the exam date
CFA Exam Eligibility and Career Scope
Meeting the CFA eligibility criteria only allows entry into the program. Long-term career growth depends on successfully clearing all three levels, acquiring relevant professional experience, and developing strong analytical and ethical skills. Candidates who start early, plan their attempts strategically, and follow a disciplined preparation approach significantly improve their chances of success.
Conclusion
There is no age limit or restriction on academic background, but holding a valid passport is compulsory. Understanding these requirements early and planning accordingly can significantly improve a candidate’s chances of clearing the CFA exams and advancing in the finance profession.
Candidates who clearly understand eligibility and plan early often benefit from structured guidance, and many aspirants prefer enrolling in CFA classes in Mumbai that focus on exam strategy, ethics, and application-based learning.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, there is no age limit for registering for the CFA exams.
Yes, however you can register for CFA Level I only if you are enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program and your exam window is within 23 months of your graduation month.
Yes, undergraduate students may register if their exam window falls within 23 months of their expected graduation date.
Yes, completion of a bachelor’s degree is mandatory before appearing for the CFA Level III exam.
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