CFA Access Scholarship is designed to make the CFA Program more accessible by reducing exam registration fees and, for awards beginning 4 March 2026, providing access to the Practice Pack. The scholarship targets individuals who may not be able to afford the full program fees and promotes the CFA Institute’s mission and values.
The scholarship is provided by CFA Institute. Applicants are expected to meet CFA Program registration requirements and to review the Access Scholarship Rules for full eligibility and policy details. Decisions are made by CFA Institute and applicants notified after the application window closes.
CFA Access Scholarship Benefits
- Reduced CFA Program exam registration fee: USD $400 (Premium Registration Package).
- Includes Practice Pack study materials.
- Opportunity to pursue a globally recognised CFA qualification.
- Development of investment and analytical skills.
- Pathway to becoming a CFA charterholder.
CFA Access Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Meet CFA Program enrollment requirements:
- Possess a valid international travel passport.
- Demonstrate English proficiency (exams are only in English).
- Show financial need.
- Not be currently registered for a CFA exam.
- Have a strong interest in investment and finance.
How to Apply for CFA Access Scholarship?
- During the application windows noted above, the Access Scholarship application will be available to apply for here: https://cfai.smapply.io/prog/access_scholarship_may_exam/.
- Log in using a computer. The application cannot be completed on mobile devices.
- You will receive a confirmation email after submitting your application.
- If you do not receive a confirmation email contact us for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the CFA Access Scholarship. These answers cover how to apply, award timing, evaluation criteria, scholarship rules, validity, and related policies.
How do I apply?
During the application windows, the Access Scholarship application is available at the CFA Institute application portal (https://cfai.smapply.io/prog/access_scholarship_may_exam/). Applicants must log in using a computer because the application cannot be completed on mobile devices. After submission you will receive a confirmation email; contact CFA Institute if you do not receive it.
When are awards issued?
Applicants will be notified directly by email approximately four weeks after the application window closes. Specific decision dates are listed with each application window and communicated to applicants following review.
What are the evaluation criteria and approval process?
Access Scholarships are for individuals who may have difficulty affording the full cost of the CFA Program. Financial need is a key consideration. Applications are reviewed and awarded by CFA Institute, and all decisions are final.
What are the scholarship rules?
Applicants should read the full Access Scholarship Rules available on the CFA Institute site. The rules outline eligibility, policies, and important conditions that applicants must understand before applying.
How long is my scholarship valid?
Access scholarships are valid for only one exam cycle. You must apply during the application window for your preferred exam; the scholarship will be valid only for the exam cycle it was awarded for and cannot be applied to other exam windows.
What happens if I do not use my scholarship before it expires?
If you fail to utilize your scholarship by not registering, not scheduling, or not appearing for the exam, you will not be eligible to receive future scholarships.
What happens if I am unable to sit for my exam?
Candidates registering with a scholarship are not permitted to purchase a paid deferral but may request an emergency deferral if they meet the specified criteria outlined by CFA Institute.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships in different exam cycles?
No. The Access Scholarship is valid for one exam cycle only. You must apply during the relevant application window for the exam you intend to sit; applying in a different window will only grant a scholarship for that window.
Can I combine the Access Scholarship with other CFA Institute scholarships?
No. Candidates may only apply for one scholarship per exam registration and cannot combine the Access Scholarship with other CFA Institute scholarships for the same exam registration.
Are scholarships available for all CFA Program levels?
Yes. Access Scholarships are available for Levels I, II, and III, depending on the exam window. Availability by level aligns with the specific application windows listed for each exam cycle.
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