Kaplan Schweser Frequently Asked Questions

Online Tech Support FAQs

 

Live Online Class FAQs

Kaplan uses Zoom for live online events. Click here for instructions on how to create and set up your Zoom account.

To optimize your classroom experience with Zoom, we recommend you visit the Zoom Download Center and install the Zoom client. We encourage you to also run a system check prior to your first session to ensure the best possible live online classroom experience.

You can simply refresh your browsing window by clicking the refresh icon or by using the shortcut Ctrl + R (or Cmd + R on Macs).
You will need to request the desktop version of the site:
  • In Chrome, click on the three little dots in the bottom right of your browser window, tap the box next to "Desktop Site."  
  • In Safari, tap and hold the "Aa" in the upper left until the menu appears, and then choose “Desktop Site."   
  • In Firefox, click on the three dots in the upper right, and then tap the box next to "Request Desktop Site.."
You may encounter audio/video issues or perhaps an inability to connect to the webpage. Please try the following solutions:

  • Use one of the other recommended browsers.
  • Clear your browser’s cache and cookies:
  • If possible, use a wired internet connection.
  • Try another network connection, such as your phone’s cellular network.
  • Ensure you’re not using a VPN, proxy server, or network with restrictive firewalls (like a work network). Some public networks found in libraries or airports may also be overly restrictive.
  • Visit the page in an incognito (Chrome) or private browsing (Firefox) window and be sure you don’t have any browser extensions enabled.

We recommend using Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox.

Internet Explorer is not a supported browser. 
Your audio/video settings are managed in a few places. Please ensure the following:

  1. Your microphone/camera are active/not muted in the event itself.
  2. You have allowed microphone/camera use in your browser. A pop-up should appear the first time you try to use them.
  3. The audio is enabled on your computer, and your microphone/camera isn’t being used in any other applications.

Chrome:

  1. Open Chrome and navigate to a website away from Kaplan Real Estate Education (such as google.com).
  2. On your browser toolbar, click the Chrome menu at the top right.
  3. Click Settings > Advanced > Privacy and security > Clear browsing data.
  4. Next to “Time Range” choose All time.
  5. Ensure that the only two items that have check marks next to them are “Cookies and other site data” and “Cached images and files.”
  6. Click Clear data.
  7. Close Chrome to complete the process.
  8. Open Chrome and log back in.

Firefox:

  1. Navigate to a website away from Kaplan Schweser (such as google.com).
  2. Click the Open menu button, and choose Options.
  3. Select the Advanced panel.
  4. Click on the Network tab.
  5. In the Cached Web Content section, click Clear Now.
  6. Close the about: preferences page. Any changes you’ve made will automatically be saved.
  7. Important: Close completely out of the browser (Use X in upper corner to close).
  8. Once closed, reopen and log back in.

Safari 8.0+:

  1. Locate the “Settings” Icon.
  2. Within the settings, you will find an option that says “Safari.”
  3. Scroll down until you see the option for “Advanced.”
  4. Then click on where it says “Website Data.”
  5. From here, scroll down and select “Remove all website data."
When choosing to share your screen, your browser will ask if you’re sure you want to allow the feature to show your screen to others. Make sure you’ve allowed screen sharing through your browser.

Technical Support FAQs

Log in to www.schweser.com and click on Tools > Internet Options > Privacy Setting. Drag the bar to the bottom of the scale to accept all cookies.
Please navigate to this website to install the Temasys plugin on your machine OR forward onto your IT team to install across your company’s network.

To ensure a smooth transition for your organization, please take the following steps and contact us if you have any issues.

  1. Allow for TCP connection secured over TLS over port 443 along with UDP Ports 443 and 10,000 - 20,000
  2. If your company utilizes an internet browser not natively compatible with WebRTC (IE11 or before, Safari 10 or before), install the Temasys plugin. 
When launching the Live Classroom from a browser that does not natively support WebRTC (i.e., IE 11), the user will receive an Audio/Video Plugin Required message.

WebRTC is a protocol supported by modern browsers. If your browser does not support WebRTC, you must install the Temasys WebRTC browser plugin or use a supported browser. Please see the list below. We recommend utilizing the latest versions of your browser. To test your browser, please run this test: Kaplan Connection 2.0 Browser Test.

Kaplan makes every attempt to make our websites and products mobile- and tablet-friendly. However, not all features are compatible with all tablets and phones.

  • When working on regulated course materials, we recommend using a Windows- or Mac-based desktop or laptop computer.
  • We recommend the use of Windows 7-11 or macOS 10.9 or later operating systems.
  • We recommend the use of current Chrome, Firefox, or Safari browsers. We also support Microsoft Edge.
  • For business customers, please verify the browser choice and use with your manager or IT department.
  • We recommend online learners have at least a 2Mbps connection.

Kaplan Schweser Login FAQs

Once payment is received, a username and password will be assigned to your account at https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login. If you previously created an account, please use your own username and password. If you do not know your username and password, please click the "Forgot your password?" link on the login page.

In order to use your Online Access, please log in to https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login and choose your product level from the product tab(s) above left. A dropdown selection will reveal the current offerings for that product.

CFA Institute Investment Foundations Students:
After your order has been processed, go to https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login and create a username and password. If you previously created an account, please enter your username and password. If you do not know your username and password, please click “Forgot your login?”, enter your email address that you registered with, and hit submit. Your password will be emailed to you and you can then log in. Your online products will be listed on the screen when you access your account.
Kaplan Schweser’s registration system is case sensitive so please capitalize letters where appropriate and eliminate spaces. Sometimes a space is captured when cutting and pasting, so try typing the username and password.
Update system requirements, if needed. Log in to https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login and click on Tools > Internet Options > Privacy Tab > Settings to allow the www.schweser.com website. Log in to https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login and click Tools > Internet Options > General Tab to delete cookies. Do not log in to the internet using your employer’s virtual private network (VPN).
This error occurs when you click on the “x” instead of clicking on the “Log Out” link.

General Kaplan Schweser FAQs

 

General FAQs

Please see our return policy here.
To report potential errors, please log into your online account, and click on the “InstructorLink” icon on the dashboard. Once you are in the InstructorLink section, complete the “Report an Error” form. We respond to all errata submissions that identify actual errors, and we generally respond to other inquiries as well.

Kaplan Schweser was founded by Dr. Carl Schweser in 1990, while he was a professor in the college of business at the University of Iowa. Prior to that time, Carl had taught in CFA® programs in North America for a number of years.

Dr. Andrew Temte has been with Schweser since its inception in 1990. Schweser was acquired by Kaplan, Inc., a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company, in 1999. At that time, Dr. Temte became its president and CEO. Kaplan Schweser now enjoys the full backing of a trusted name in education and training with Kaplan’s resources at its disposal. Even though Schweser is now a part of a bigger organization, we are still committed to our tradition of fulfilling candidate needs, as well as continually enhancing the quality of service to our customers.

To email the instructor, log in to your online access account on https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login. Once logged in, select “InstructorLink” under “Study Tools.” Any comments sent via this link will be sent directly to the instructor.
All prices on the website are listed in US dollars.

Shipping Method: Canada–UPS Express

  • Please allow one business day for order processing.
  • Canada shipments (includes brokerage): UPS Express (2–4 business days)

Shipping Method: International–UPS Express, UPS Express Saver, UPS Expedited

  • Please allow one business day for order processing.
  • Please note: Shipments imported into non-United States territories may incur taxes, duties, or customs fees collected by custom agencies of their country. Our product prices and shipping prices do not include these fees and we have no control over any additional charges. The customer is responsible for payment of any taxes, duties, customs fees, etc. directly to customs/UPS.

Be advised: The UPS Service Guarantee does not apply when transportation networks are disrupted due to conditions beyond UPS’s control, such as weather, natural disaster, UPS facility delays, and so forth. In addition, delivery of your order may be delayed during holidays that are observed by UPS.

Shipping Method: United States–United Parcel Service

  • Please allow one business day for order processing.
  • UPS Ground will be delivered in 2–5 business days, depending on location order is being shipped to.
  • UPS 2nd Day Air orders (must be received by 1:00 pm Eastern Time) will be delivered on the second business day.
  • UPS Next Day Air orders (order must be received by 10:00 am Eastern Time) will be delivered on the next business day.
  • For UPS Next Day Air Saturday, please call our office 877.311.9770 (U.S.) or +1 608.779.8327 (International) by 12:00 pm Eastern Time on Friday to place your order.

Be advised: The UPS Service Guarantee does not apply when transportation networks are disrupted due to conditions beyond UPS’s control, such as weather, natural disaster, UPS facility delays, and so forth. In addition, delivery of your order may be delayed during holidays that are observed by UPS.

Our study packages and classes offer access to the Kaplan Schweser Community, an online forum where you can ask questions, find answers, and engage with industry experts and your fellow candidates. For all other questions, you can contact us by calling 877-311-9770 or +1-608-779-8327 (International), using our live chat feature, or by filling out our contact form on the contact us page.

Every year, the governing bodies announce a new curriculum for their respective designations. These updates include adding new readings, dropping old readings, and altering many of the learning outcomes associated with old readings that are retained in the curriculum. This requires a complete rewrite of the previous year’s Schweser materials, including books, QBank, Mock Exams, and other products. Because of these changes, previous editions of the Kaplan Schweser materials are not the best source of study materials. To ensure you are prepared for the upcoming exams, you need to have up to date study materials.

Tuition Support FAQs

Yes, anything that Kaplan sells can be added on the total tuition amount.
All courses can be taken under this loan program as long as the totals are at least $1000.00 for the tuition portion.
Anyone can apply for this career loan. Sallie Mae will consider co-borrower and co-signer applications to improve your qualifications for approval.

COVID FAQS

  • Do not attend class, take care of yourself, and view the recorded lessons in your syllabus. 
  • Please do not attend class in person again until you feel better. 
  • If you are having any of the below COVID symptoms, do not attend class until you obtain a negative COVID test result (rapid test is acceptable) and you have no more symptoms. 

    COVID-19 Symptoms
    1. Fever (temperature of 100.4°F / 38°C or above)
    2. Chills
    3. New cough
    4. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    5. Fatigue, headache, or muscle/body aches
    6. Sore throat
    7. New loss of taste or smell
    8. Congestion or runny nose
    9. Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)

Please contact us below for additional support!

Contact Us

  • You may enter the classroom after day 5 from exposure with a negative test result (rapid test is acceptable) taken on day 5 or later, unless the local laws regarding COVID-19 are more restrictive. 
  • Don’t worry about missing anything! You can view the recorded lessons in your syllabus.
  • Please call 1-877-311-9770 to discuss your learning path as soon as possible. We need to inform your classmates and the instructor of possible exposure as soon as we can to prevent additional potential spread. We also have safety protocols we will follow.
  • In most cases, you will be permitted to return to class after 5 days from onset of symptoms (or, if no symptoms, your positive test), so long as you have tested negative and no longer have symptoms.
  • Be sure to monitor your email for updates on class location.
You may enter the location 5 days from return with a negative test result (rapid test is acceptable) taken on day 5 or later, unless the local laws regarding COVID-19 are more restrictive.

For More Information Click Here.

CFA® Exam FAQs

 

General CFA® Exam FAQs

If you wish to extend your access within the same curriculum year as your original purchase, you may do so free of charge if you have purchased an Ultimate, Premium, or Essential study package.  Please note: Proof of exam registration from CFA Institute is required. Contact us to extend your access.

If you need access to study materials for a new curriculum year, please see your options under our PassProtection™ policy, or contact us to learn more.

No. Kaplan Schweser rewrites all materials each year to reflect any curriculum changes.
We cannot offer CPE credits on CFA classes/workshops because we cannot comply with NASBA monitoring requirements in a cost-effective way.
Yes, you can switch your Kaplan Schweser study package and/or exam prep products to align with a different pathway. Digital study products are free to switch over, while print materials are $99 plus shipping. Please note that you will lose your progress and Performance Tracker statistics if you switch pathways. To switch pathways, simply contact Customer Support. However, keep in mind that CFA Institute does not allow candidates to switch their pathway once registration is complete. 

Many aspiring CFA candidates ask how to best prepare for the CFA exams. Partnering with a trusted CFA prep provider can help you save both time and money. By investing in high-quality study materials, effective practice resources, and strong support systems from a reputable provider like Kaplan Schweser, you’ll improve your chances of passing on your first try. It’s a smart approach to earning the CFA charter and advancing your career. While it’s not required, using a third party CFA prep provider is often one of the most effective ways to succeed on the exams.

Get Started »

You can access your online tools by navigating to https://home.kaplanlearn.com/. Next, under the Access My Learning section, click Launch to begin your studies.

To report potential errors, please log into your online account, and click on the “InstructorLink” icon on the dashboard. Once you are in the InstructorLink section, complete the “Report an Error” form. We respond to all errata submissions that identify actual errors, and we generally respond to other inquiries as well.
Access to 2025 online materials expires on the following dates:
  • February 2025 exam products: access expires on March 31, 2025 
  • May 2025 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2025 
  • August 2025 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2025 
  • November 2025 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2025

Access to 2026 online materials expires on the following dates:

  • February 2026 exam products: access expires on March 31, 2026 
  • May 2026 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2026 
  • August 2026 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2026
  • November 2026 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2026
To email the instructor, log in to your online access account on https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login. Once logged in, select “InstructorLink” under “Study Tools.” Any comments sent via this link will be sent directly to the instructor.
The Schweser Flashcards contain the main points of the readings, along with learning outcomes, and have been designed for use as a quick review as well as a reference source. They are an excellent way for a candidate to focus on the main points covered by a Learning Outcome Statement. Candidates may choose to use the Flashcards to overview a topic prior to more in-depth study or as a follow-up to check comprehension after a more in-depth study session.

Schweser’s live online classes give you access to our expert instructors – all CFA charterholders who know what it takes to succeed. Online classes are presented live and archived so you can review them anytime, anywhere.

Our OnDemand Classes cover all the topical areas of the curriculum, provide the benefits of a review course, and are an excellent solution to understanding those difficult concepts. The video lectures can be used as often as your schedule allows; start, stop, rewind, and emphasize specific areas by viewing them in any order you want. With the OnDemand Class, you will simultaneously be able to do the following:

  • Watch the video presentation with accompanying PowerPoint® slides.
  • Pause the presentation at any time to review the LOS explanation that corresponds with the presentation.

Our study packages and classes offer access to the Kaplan Schweser Community, an online forum where you can ask questions, find answers, and engage with industry experts and your fellow candidates. For all other questions, you can contact us by calling 877-311-9770 or +1-608-779-8327 (International), using our live chat feature, or by filling out our contact form on the contact us page.

Every year, CFA Institute announces its new curriculum. These annual updates include adding new readings, dropping old readings, and altering many of the learning outcomes associated with old readings that are retained in the curriculum. This requires a complete rewrite of the previous year’s Schweser materials, including books, QBank, Mock Exams, and other products. Because of these changes, previous editions of the Kaplan Schweser materials are not the best source of study materials. To ensure you are prepared for the upcoming exams, you need to have up to date study materials.

CFA® Program & Exam Preparation

You may use either the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the BA II Plus Professional) or the Hewlett Packard 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum). Unless you are already proficient with the HP calculator, we suggest you use the BA II Plus and our instruction is based on that model (either regular or professional). For more information, visit the following websites: www.hp.com or www.ti.com.
You can find contact information for CFA Institute at  www.cfainstitute.org or email info@cfainstitute.org.
There is a  registration section on the CFA Institute website where you will register for the exam. You are required to create an account before you are allowed to register.
While it is technically possible to pass all three exams within 18 months, it usually takes longer depending on your other time commitments, such as a full-time job. The average time to complete the three exams is more than 4 years. Our goal is to help you minimize this time commitment.

 

To qualify for the award of the CFA charter, CFA Institute has these requirements:

  1. Pass the sequence of three exams, referred to as CFA Level I, CFA Level II, and CFA Level III. These exams are administered several times each year. You can only take the next level exam after passing the previous level exam, and there must be at least 6 months between each attempt.
  2. Accrue 4,000 hours of relevant work experience, completed in a minimum of 36 months. Qualifying hours must include work experience that directly relates to the investment decision-making process or producing a work product that informs or adds value to that process. Full-time, part-time, and remote work can qualify.
  3. Provide two or three professional references to CFA Institute.
  4. Fulfill CFA Institute membership requirements, which include membership in CFA Institute as well as a CFA Institute Member Society Chapter.
  5. After becoming a CFA charterholder, the candidate must comply with CFA Institute’s policies and other requirements.
  6. Have a valid international travel passport (required for enrollment and exam registration).
Additional details can be found on the CFA Institute website.
Starting from a general body of knowledge, CFA Institute assigns a set of readings from textbooks and journal articles for different subject areas: economics, ethics, equity, corporate finance, accounting/financial statement analysis, fixed income securities, markets, portfolio management, and quantitative methods. Each reading has a set of learning outcomes. CFA Institute constructs these learning outcome statements to focus the candidate’s study efforts on particular topics within a particular reading.
The Chartered Financial Analyst (“CFA”) Program is a globally recognized standard for professionals in the financial services industry. The CFA charter is given by CFA Institute. The first charter was awarded in 1963; the program is over 60 years old. For more information, please visit  www.cfainstitute.org. Kaplan Schweser is not affiliated with CFA Institute. Kaplan Schweser is an independent educational training firm and assists candidates in preparing for the CFA exam.
Pass rates on the exam varies from year to year and from level to level. Visit the CFA Institute site www.cfainstitute.org for more information.
CFA Institute’s Prep Provider Guidelines do not allow us to publish or communicate pass rates in any provider materials.

SchweserPro™ QBank FAQs

Yes. SchweserPro™ QBank on a Mac computer is most compatible with Chrome.
All online tools are available in your account through our Learning Platform. Click the Sign In button on the top right hand corner of this window or click here: Sign In »
Access to 2025 online materials expires on the following dates:
  • February 2025 exam products: access expires on March 31, 2025 
  • May 2025 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2025 
  • August 2025 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2025 
  • November 2025 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2025

Access to 2026 online materials expires on the following dates:

  • February 2026 exam products: access expires on March 31, 2026 
  • May 2026 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2026 
  • August 2026 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2026
  • November 2026 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2026
Any errors found in SchweserPro™ QBank are updated immediately. You are always seeing the most updated version of SchweserPro™ QBank.
SchweserPro™ QBank requires you to have full administrative rights on your PC. If you are using a work PC, you will need to work with your IT department, as this message is typically due to a firewall problem. You may also need to check the following: Internet Explorer > Tools > Internet Options > Connections > LAN Settings… > uncheck “Use Proxy Server…”, put in the address www.schweser.com and port number 443. If you are using a personal PC that may connect into your work’s server, please go to Internet Explorer > Tools > Internet Options > Connections > LAN Settings > make sure to check and mark “Bypass proxy server for local address.”
Yes! Download the Kaplan Schweser App, and you can study from anywhere.

CAIA® Exam FAQs

 

General CAIA® FAQs

Yes. Once you are logged in under the CAIA section on our website, click “Updates/Errata” to find a complete list of updates to our study materials

If you wish to extend your access within the same curriculum year as your original purchase, you may do so free of charge if you have purchased a Premium, EssentialPlus, or Essential study package.

Please note: Proof of exam registration from CAIA Association is required. Contact us to extend your access. If you need access to study materials for a new curriculum year, please see your options under our PassProtection™ policy, or contact us to learn more.

The SchweserNotes™ are organized by Topic and by Learning Objective (LO). The curriculum is presented in LO order, making studying for the exam a simple process: read the LO to determine the specific knowledge to be gained; read the comprehensive explanation immediately following the LO; and test yourself using Concept Checker questions.
To report potential errors, please log into your online account, and click on the “InstructorLink” icon on the dashboard. Once you are in the InstructorLink section, complete the “Report an Error” form. We respond to all errata submissions that identify actual errors, and we generally respond to other inquiries as well.
To email the instructor, log in to your online access account on https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login. Once logged in, select “InstructorLink” under “Study Tools.” Any comments sent via this link will be sent directly to the instructor.

Kaplan Schweser offers the following selection of products designed to fully prepare candidates for the CAIA® exam. All products listed below are available for both levels:

  • OnDemand Class
  • SchweserNotes™
  • Mock Exams
  • SchweserPro™ QBank
  • Flashcards
  • Schweser’s QuickSheet
  • OnDemand Review Workshop which includes the following:
    • Schweser’s Secret Sauce®
    • OnDemand Review Workshop sessions
    • Mock Exam

Combinations of these products are also offered in efficient study packages. Learn More »

Our study packages and classes offer access to the Kaplan Schweser Community, an online forum where you can ask questions, find answers, and engage with industry experts and your fellow candidates. For all other questions, you can contact us by calling 877-311-9770 or +1-608-779-8327 (International), using our live chat feature, or by filling out our contact form on the contact us page.

Every year, the governing bodies announce a new curriculum for their respective designations. These updates include adding new readings, dropping old readings, and altering many of the learning outcomes associated with old readings that are retained in the curriculum. This requires a complete rewrite of the previous year’s Schweser materials, including books, QBank, Mock Exams, and other products. Because of these changes, previous editions of the Kaplan Schweser materials are not the best source of study materials. To ensure you are prepared for the upcoming exams, you need to have up to date study materials.

CAIA® Program & Exam Preparation

The CAIA Association® allows candidates to use the TI Business Analyst Plus II (including the TI Business Analyst II Professional) or the HP 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum). No other calculators will be allowed in the exam room.
You may use either the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the BA II Plus Professional) or the Hewlett Packard 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum). Unless you are already proficient with the HP calculator, we suggest you use the BA II Plus and our instruction is based on that model (either regular or professional). For more information, visit the following websites: www.hp.com or www.ti.com.
No, you will pay an enrollment fee upfront, which will cover both exams, but after that, you must register and pay for each exam level separately.
Our SchweserNotes™ are written to be a comprehensive guide of the recommended readings for the CAIA exam. The decision on whether or not to read the original texts is up to you, and often depends on your own academic background, strengths, and weaknesses.
There is a registration section on the  CAIA Association website where you will register for the exam. You are required to create an account before you are allowed to register.
After registering for a CAIA exam, you will receive a confirmation email from CAIAA that will explain how to schedule your exam appointment. You will be asked to choose a testing center from a list of available sites, as well as a specific date and time within the two-week exam period for which you are registered.
Past candidate surveys show that the average study time is at least 200 hours of study for each level of the exam.
You must have a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) and possess over one year of professional experience in the financial industry or possess a minimum of four years’ professional experience in the financial industry. In addition, you must provide two professional references, complete the online CAIA Membership Agreement, submit annual membership dues, and pass both levels of the CAIA exam.
Enrollment fee details can be found here: CAIA Exam Registration and Dates.

These percentages are fluid and change from exam to exam. In the March 2024 exam window, the Level I exam pass rate was 46%, and the Level II exam pass rate was 59%. These stated percentages include only those candidates who sit for exams.

 *Pass rate data is from https://300hours.com/caia-pass-rates

You can find contact information for CAIA Association at  www.caia.org or email info@caia.org.
The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Charter program was started in 2002 and is gaining momentum. The CAIA community now has over 8,000 alternative investment leaders that can be found in over 80 countries. The Charter covers alternative investments such as real assets, private equity, commodities, managed futures, hedge funds, and structured products. The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Association® (CAIAA) is the governing body of the CAIA exam; therefore it is in charge of determining candidates’ eligibility, administering and grading the exams, and deciding who is awarded the designation.
The Level I exam lasts 4 hours and consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. The Level II exam lasts 4 hours and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and three sets of constructed-response (essay-type) questions.
The Level I and Level II exams are each offered in September and March. This exam schedule gives candidates the opportunity to complete the entire CAIA program in a single year. Candidates must successfully complete both exams in order to be eligible for membership in the CAIA Association. Candidates cannot take the Level I and Level II exams in the same exam period.
The CAIAA exam committee uses 70% of the total points as the initial benchmark so that candidates who earn 70% or more of the total points pass the exam. Because the Association compares a candidate’s score against the average exam score, there is the potential for a curve. The curve effectively moves the passing score below 70%.
Please refer to our Exam Details page for the most up to date list of topics covered in the CAIA curriculum.
Exam windows for each level are held in March and September of each year.
Registration for the March exams is open in October through the beginning of February, while registration for the September exams is open early April through late July. Early registration periods take place during the first eight weeks of registration. Registration is exam-specific and cannot be transferred to future exam sessions.
Level I exam results are usually distributed within three weeks of the closing of the exam window. Level II exam results are usually distributed within six weeks of the closing of the exam window.

The CAIA exams are administered by computer at proctored test centers around the world. After registering for an exam, candidates are required to schedule an appointment with a testing center. Visit the test center section of the CAIA Association’s website to find a test center near you.

FRM® Exam FAQs

 

General FRM® FAQs

No, we rewrite all of our materials each year as a whole to reflect any curriculum changes, which can be extensive.
Yes, but the OnDemand Review Package is specifically designed for late-season review and is not designed to be a substitute for a comprehensive study package. Typically, the OnDemand Review sessions are not available until 1–2 months prior to the exam. Please contact us for more information.
All online tools are available in your account through our Learning Platform. Click the Sign In button on the top right hand corner of this window or click here: Sign In »
According to the GARP® website, “GARP does not offer FRM preparation courses as the Association considers this to be a conflict of interest.” They even state that “Alone, the FRM Core Readings are not sufficient to prepare a candidate to pass the examination.” Clearly, it would be to your advantage to use an exam prep provider…and we believe Kaplan Schweser is your best solution.
To report potential errors, please log into your online account, and click on the “InstructorLink” icon on the dashboard. Once you are in the InstructorLink section, complete the “Report an Error” form. We respond to all errata submissions that identify actual errors, and we generally respond to other inquiries as well.
Start by creating a personalized study plan and adjust as necessary to ensure you are always on track for exam day. Then begin reading your SchweserNotes™ in order. If at any point you need additional insight, consult the appropriate FRM assigned readings.
To email the instructor, log in to your online access account on https://home.kaplanlearn.com/login. Once logged in, select “InstructorLink” under “Study Tools.” Any comments sent via this link will be sent directly to the instructor.
Schweser’s Secret Sauce® contains the critical concepts found within the FRM® readings and has been designed for use as a quick review as well as a reference source. It will help with the retention of the FRM curriculum when it is used in conjunction with the SchweserNotes™. This late-season product is excellent for those candidates trying to absorb as much material as possible prior to the examination.

Kaplan Schweser offers a selection of products designed to fully prepare the candidate for each part of the FRM Exam, including the following:

  • OnDemand Classes
  • SchweserNotes™
  • Mock Exams
  • SchweserPro™ QBank
  • Schweser’s QuickSheet
  • InstructorLink
  • Resource Library
  • Topic Quizzes
  • Kaplan Schweser Community
  • Activity Feed
  • OnDemand Review
  • Schweser’s Secret Sauce®

Combinations of these products are offered in efficient study packages.

Our study packages and classes offer access to the Kaplan Schweser Community, an online forum where you can ask questions, find answers, and engage with industry experts and your fellow candidates. For all other questions, you can contact us by calling 877-311-9770 or +1-608-779-8327 (International), using our live chat feature, or by filling out our contact form on the contact us page.

Every year, the governing bodies announce a new curriculum for their respective designations. These updates include adding new readings, dropping old readings, and altering many of the learning outcomes associated with old readings that are retained in the curriculum. This requires a complete rewrite of the previous year’s Schweser materials, including books, QBank, Mock Exams, and other products. Because of these changes, previous editions of the Kaplan Schweser materials are not the best source of study materials. To ensure you are prepared for the upcoming exams, you need to have up to date study materials.

FRM® Program & Exam Preparation

You may use either the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the BA II Plus Professional) or the Hewlett Packard 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum). Unless you are already proficient with the HP calculator, we suggest you use the BA II Plus and our instruction is based on that model (either regular or professional). For more information, visit the following websites: www.hp.com or www.ti.com.
No, if you would like, you may take the exam and then complete your two years of experience. Once you complete the requirement, simply contact GARP®, and your certificate will be issued to you.
Our SchweserNotes™ are written to be an essential complement to GARP’s recommended readings for the FRM Exams. The decision as to whether or not to read the recommended readings is up to you, and often depends on your own academic background, strengths, and weaknesses.
No; unfortunately, the program requires two years of professional experience, and an internship position does not meet these requirements.
You can find contact information for GARP® at www.garp.org or email memberservices@garp.com.
Our study packages include products and materials designed to prepare you for the FRM Exams, regardless of the format you choose. You will receive a Part I or Part II Study Outline that explains the topics you should focus on to successfully prepare for exam day.
There is a registration section on the GARP website where you will register for the exam.
The FRM designation complements the CFA charter. The FRM curriculum provides more detail on areas of financial and non-financial risk while the CFA curriculum provides a broad view of financial analysis in general. The FRM Part I material will overlap with part of the CFA curriculum, mainly in the areas of quantitative analysis, portfolio theory, derivatives, and fixed income securities. The FRM and CFA overlap at Part II is minimal; however, some concepts that are mentioned briefly in the CFA curriculum, such as value at risk, credit risk, risk budgeting, and hedge funds, are expanded upon in this section of the FRM curriculum. Exclusive to the FRM Exams are readings on operational and integrated risk management, Basel II, current issues in financial markets, and case studies in risk management. The FRM Exams tend to have more of a quantitative focus than the CFA exams.

On average, GARP® reports that FRM candidates spend approximately 240 hours preparing for the exam. However, at the individual level, this can range from less than 100 hours to more than 400 hours. Therefore, it's important to gauge your own understanding of the curriculum and follow an established study plan. Please visit this GARP resource for more details.

It’s growing quickly. Since the FRM designation Program began in 1997, more than 87,000 individuals around the world have successfully completed the program. For more information, please visit  www.garp.org.

Enrollment fee details can be found here:  FRM Exam Registration and Dates.
You must receive a passing score on each part of the FRM Exam, hold an active membership with GARP®, and have a minimum of two years’ experience in the financial risk management (or other related) field.
The expanded FRM Program includes two exams, Part I and Part II are computer-based, multiple-choice exams. Part I contains 100 multiple-choice questions. Part II contains 80 multiple-choice questions.
GARP® provides its FRM® Program for the testing, analysis, and evaluation of the skills, qualifications, education, and competencies of those in the field of financial risk management. The FRM designation is globally recognized as the benchmark for financial risk professionals and has been adopted by companies to ensure their risk management employees are well versed in the latest financial risk concepts. Click here for more information about the FRM Program.

VitalSource eBook FAQs

Yes, there are some limitations to the mobile apps in comparison to the desktop version. Please see the important notes regarding your eBooks on mobile devices.

  • The functionality of the mobile device app is limited in comparison to the personal computer version of the VitalSource Bookshelf® software. For example, notes and highlights are viewable, but users cannot make new notes from the app at this time. The app does, however, have search capabilities.
  • The eBooks are not optimized for mobile devices and, therefore, the text on mobile phones is very small. The app has zoom capability, but at the expense of easy navigation.
  • Use of the app will not affect your ability to download the eBook onto a personal computer. Students can download their SchweserNotes™, Secret Sauce®, or QuickSheet to a maximum of two compatible mobile devices, in addition to two personal computers. Additionally, candidates can access the online version of the eBook through online.vitalsource.com from any compatible internet browser.
  • The app itself installs very quickly, but individual SchweserNotes™ books may take several minutes to download because of the large file sizes.
  • Users can only download their materials when WiFi access is available.

When you purchase an eBook product, you will receive an email with installation instructions and a unique registration code to activate your eBook. With a compatible browser, you will be able to access your eBooks via the internet at online.vitalsource.com or from a file you directly download.

The eBook version provides access to the curriculum in digital format for use on a personal computer, Apple® mobile device (including iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®), Android™ mobile device, and the Kindle Fire, eliminating shipping and customs fees. When you purchase an eBook product, and it is assigned to your account, you will receive installation instructions and a unique registration code to activate your eBook.

All eBooks can be downloaded directly from VitalSource. Once downloaded, eBooks are accessible for one year. Please note: it is important to download eBooks before product access expires. For specific product access expiration dates, please refer to your exam below:

CFA

2025 product access expires on the following dates: 

  • February 2025 exam products: access expires on March 31, 2025 
  • May 2025 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2025 
  • August 2025 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2025 
  • November 2025 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2025
2026 product access expires on the following dates: 

  • February 2026 exam products: access expires on March 31, 2026
  • May 2026 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2026
  • August 2026 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2026
  • November 2026 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2026

CAIA

2025 product access expires on the following dates: 

  • March 2025 exam products: access expires on April 30, 2025
  • September 2025 exam products: access expires on October 31, 2025

FRM

2025 product access expires on the following dates: 

  • May 2025 exam products: access expires on June 30, 2025
  • August 2025 exam products: access expires on September 30, 2025
  • November 2025 exam products: access expires on December 31, 2025
When you purchase the eBook versions of SchweserNotes™, Secret Sauce®, or QuickSheet, you will get access to view them online. You can also access and download them on up to two personal computers and up to two mobile devices.

Features of the SchweserNotes™ eBooks, Secret Sauce® eBook, and QuickSheet eBook include the following:

  • Electronic notes and highlighting: When you make notes and highlight sections, the changes are stored on the VitalSource® server, meaning they will be available if you access the eBook from another computer or device. Additionally, notes and highlights can be automatically synchronized between the web version of your products and your downloaded version (this requires that the computer containing your downloaded file be online). You can also share your notes and highlighted content.
  • Ability to export notes: You can copy/paste curriculum text and export your notes to a text file.
  • Advanced search function: You can search either a single volume of the SchweserNotes™ or every volume of the SchweserNotes™ for your exam level.
  • Flexible print options: You can print up to 10 pages at a time.
  • PC: Latest Windows Version 6.9.2, Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11 (32/64 bit)
    • Microsoft.Net 4.5
    • DirectX 10 compatible graphics card
    • Internet connection for registration and downloading of eBook
  • Mac: Latest Mac Version 6.9, Mac OS X 10.8 or later
    • Internet connection for registration and downloading of eBook
  • Apple: iPad, iPhone, or iPod touch using iOS 6.0 or greater
  • Android: Android 2.2–4.4
  • Kindle Fire: Kindle Fire 1, 2, HD, or HDX model

Try clicking "Update Book List" in the My Account section. If you continue to experience difficulties, please contact VitalSource Technical Support (refer to resources listed above).

Please Note: All VitalSource® eBook orders are final and nonrefundable.

VitalSource® is the preferred and most used eBook platform in higher education today, and the VitalSource Bookshelf® is the most advanced eBook software in the world. With VitalSource®, you get three-way access to your books: download, online, and mobile. Notes and highlights automatically stay in sync no matter where you take them (mobile requires online sync). In the library, at the computer lab, or even in a clinical setting, you can access your books when you need them—whether you brought your laptop or not.
SchweserNotes™, Schweser’s Secret Sauce®, and Schweser’s QuickSheet are available as VitalSource® eBooks. The eBook provides access to your study materials in a digital format for use on a personal computer, Apple® mobile device (including iPad®, iPhone®, and iPod touch®), Android™ mobile device, and the Kindle Fire.

For immediate answers to common technical support issues, please review the VitalSource Video Tutorials for the answers to several common questions.

If you require further assistance, visit VitalSource Technical Support or contact the VitalSource Support line. They will connect you with a VitalSource Bookshelf® Expert who specializes in your exact question. The U.S.-based support center is open 24/7 to accommodate your schedule.

  • In the United States and Canada, please call 1.855.200.4146.
  • In the United Kingdom, please call 0808 2340361.
  • Submit a Bookshelf Support Request or general Bookshelf Feedback using the VitalSource Support Web Form.
  • Live Chat is available in all areas by clicking the "Need Help? Chat With Us" pop-up at the bottom of the VitalSource Technical Support page.

Select Your Exam to Find the Right Study Options for You.