What to Bring to the CFA® Exams: Exam Day Checklist

Exams, especially the CFA® exams, are stressful. Research has shown that increased stress levels can negatively impact performance, particularly for high-stakes exams like the CFA®. According to a study by Harvard’s Graduate School of Education, stress levels can influence cognitive function and test fairness, potentially leading to biased outcomes in some cases.

To avoid this, you need to be prepared.

Knowing exactly what to bring to the testing room (and avoid) on exam day is one way to do so. So, in this guide, I will provide all the essential information on what to bring to the CFA® exam, what’s prohibited, and how to ensure a smooth check-in process. Whether taking Level I, II, or III, it’s essential to be fully aware of CFA® requirements for a successful exam day.

Key Takeaways

• ID: A valid international passport or government-issued ID must match the name you used to register with the CFA® Institute.
• Approved Calculator: Only Texas Instruments BA II Plus or Hewlett Packard 12C calculators are allowed. Many test takers bring a backup and extra batteries as well.
• Clear Containers: Use clear containers for personal belongings to speed up the check-in process at the test center/exam hall.
• No Electronics: Mobile phones, smartwatches, and fitness trackers are strictly prohibited inside the exam room.
• Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and security procedures.

Valid Identification

The most critical item to bring to the CFA® exam is a valid form of identification. You will not be allowed into the exam room without the correct ID. The CFA® Institute requires candidates to bring a valid international travel passport or a government-issued photo ID, which must match their registered name.

• Valid international travel passport or government-issued ID: This ID must be current and not expired and must match the name you used during registration. If the name on your ID does not match the name you registered with (due to marriage, name change, etc.), contact the CFA® Institute in advance to update your registration details.
• No passport covers: Remove any passport covers before handing over your ID at the check-in desk, as they may slow down the security process.

Ensuring your ID matches your registration is vital. Double-check that it’s correct and up-to-date before exam day to avoid any issues at the test center.

Approved Calculators

The CFA® exam involves extensive calculations; only two specific calculator models are permitted. It’s crucial to ensure you bring the correct one, as using an unapproved calculator could result in disqualification from the exam.

• Texas Instruments BA II Plus: This model is one of the most commonly used calculators for the CFA® exam. It is known for its reliability and built-in financial functions. Practice using it before the exam so you’re familiar with its operations.
• Hewlett Packard 12C: This is another approved calculator. Finance professionals widely use this model. It offers similar functions but operates slightly differently than the BA II Plus, so practice well in advance.

Always bring extra batteries for your calculator, as running out of power during the exam can be disastrous. If possible, pack a backup calculator of the same model in case your primary one malfunctions.

Personal Belongings and Storage

Regarding personal belongings, the CFA® exam has strict guidelines on what can and cannot be brought into the exam room. Test centers typically provide a designated area where you can store personal items, and it’s recommended to use clear or transparent containers to help expedite the security check.

• Clear containers or bags will allow test center staff to inspect your belongings quickly, helping you move through the security process more efficiently.
• Eyeglass case: If you wear glasses, bring a protective case. While you’ll need to store it outside the exam room, having it on hand after the exam is helpful.
• Study materials: You can bring study materials to review before check-in, but these must be left outside once you enter the exam room. No notes or guides are allowed during the test.
• Jewelry and small accessories: Simple items like engagement rings, wedding bands, or tie clips are fine, but avoid wearing anything too ornate or distracting, as this may delay your check-in process.
• Wearable technology: Smartwatches, fitness trackers, or any other wearable technology are not allowed in the exam room and must be stored with your personal belongings.

By organizing your belongings in advance and complying with CFA® Institute guidelines, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays during check-in and stay focused on the exam.

Prohibited Items

The CFA® Institute clearly lists prohibited items, and bringing any of these could result in disqualification or penalties. Understanding what not to bring is just as important as knowing what’s required.

• Mobile phones: Phones, even turned off, are strictly prohibited inside the exam room. It would be best to store your phone outside with your personal belongings.
• Smartwatches and fitness trackers: Wearable technology is prohibited in the exam room. So, if you have an Apple watch or any other fitness tracking devices, you’ll want to leave them at home or a store outside of the testing center.
• Photographic devices: Cameras and recording equipment are banned from the exam room to maintain security and the integrity of the exam.
• Elaborate accessories: Ornate hair clips, headbands, and tie clips can slow down security checks, so it’s best to avoid wearing anything overly decorative.
• Remote communication devices: Bluetooth headsets, communication devices, or any equipment capable of sending or receiving data are prohibited from the exam room. This is for all CFA® exams (Levels I, II, and III.)

Familiarizing yourself with the list of no-go items ensures you’ll avoid bringing anything that could interfere with your ability to take the CFA® exam.

Check-In Process and Security

Arriving early is essential to ensuring you have enough time to check in, pass through security, check in with testing personnel, and settle in before the exam starts. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled exam time.

• Admission ticket: Bring your printed admission ticket to the test center. It is required for check-in and entry into the exam room.
• Appointment confirmation number: Keep this handy if the staff needs to verify your registration details during check-in.
• Security check: Test center staff will visually inspect personal items to ensure no prohibited items are brought into the exam room. Using clear containers can help speed up this process.

Once you’ve completed the check-in process and passed through security, you’ll be directed to your assigned seat in the exam room.

Inside the Exam Room

The CFA® Institute maintains strict guidelines for what can be brought inside the exam room. On top of knowing about the exam format, exam date, and time of your exam sessions, knowing what to do once you enter the test room is key. Once seated, only approved items are allowed on your desk, and the Institute will provide everything else you need for the test.

• Erasable writing tablet: The CFA® Institute provides an erasable writing tablet for use during your CFA® exam. This will serve as your scratch paper for calculations and notes, so there’s no need to bring your own.
• Desk clock: Personal desk clocks are not allowed, but a visible clock will be in the exam room to help you manage your time. Keep an eye on it, especially during timed sections.
• Optional break: For longer exams, you may have the option to take a break. However, remember that the clock doesn’t stop during your break, so manage your time wisely.

Following these rules ensures that the CFA® Institute maintains a fair and secure testing environment for all candidates.

Conclusion

Preparing for the CFA® exam isn’t just about mastering the material—it’s also about knowing what to bring and what to leave behind on exam day. From ensuring you have the correct ID and approved calculator to understanding the check-in process, following the CFA® Institute’s guidelines will help ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.

Packing the right items, avoiding prohibited items, and arriving early will allow you to focus solely on passing the exam. With everything in order, you’ll walk into the exam room confident and ready to tackle the test. Use this article to create a CFA® exam day checklist and ensure that you know exactly what to bring to the CFA® exam.

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