What Every CFA Candidate Needs to Know Before Exam Day

You’ve studied for months. You’ve sacrificed sleep, weekends and your social life. You know the curriculum inside out. But then exam day arrives and panic sets in. What if you forget your ID? What if your calculator batteries die? What if you’re not even sure what to wear on exam day?

You’d be surprised how many candidates stumble not because they didn’t study enough but because they overlooked basic but critical details. That’s where this CFA exam checklist comes in. It’s your complete CFA exam day preparation guide, covering everything from what to bring to the CFA exam to CFA Institute guidelines, CFA test rules and practical tips for walking into that Prometric CFA test center with confidence.

Let’s break it down into a timeline, beginning from the final week before the exam.

One Week to the Exam

This is when your focus should shift from study mode to logistics and mental readiness. You’ve likely already nailed your CFA Level 1 exam registration or CFA Level 2 exam registration and now it’s time to solidify your game plan for exam day.

Start with this day checklist for CFA candidates:

• Revisit your CFA exam schedule. Know your exact date and time. Double-check the email confirmation and CFA exam verification letter.
• Familiarise yourself with CFA exam policies. These include the CFA Institute personal belongings policy and the specific CFA test rules.
• Locate your test venue. Look up CFA exam locations or CFA testing locations closest to you. Use the CFA Institute website to verify your Prometric CFA test center assignment.
• Check out the CFA test center location in advance. Consider driving there to get a sense of how long it takes or using Google Maps to see what traffic is like during your scheduled time.
• Know your test format. Whether you’re tackling the CFA Level 2 exam format or CFA Level 3 exam format, knowing what to expect is half the battle.

If you’re wondering how many times you can take the CFA exam, don’t even go there. The goal is to pass now. And the best way to do that is to be as prepared logistically as you are academically.

Three Days to the Exam

This is when you begin to assemble what you’ll need on test day. That includes:

• Your valid international travel passport. Make sure it matches your CFA exam registration exactly. No nicknames. No expired documents.
• Your CFA exam verification letter. This confirms your appointment at the Prometric testing center.
• Your CFA approved calculator. Only the Texas Instruments BA II Plus or the Hewlett Packard 12C are allowed. Don’t forget your keystroke cards for the CFA exam if applicable.
• Extra calculator batteries. New ones, ideally.
• Snacks and water. Keep in mind the Prometric water bottle policy. Use a clear bottle with no labels. Opt for brain-boosting snacks such as protein bars, trail mix or fruit. Avoid anything messy or noisy.
• Face mask, if required. The Prometric mask policy may vary by region, so check current health and safety updates on the Prometric website.
• Eyeglasses, if needed. Make sure they don’t have smart tech embedded.

It’s also time to review the CFA dress code on exam day. There isn’t a strict uniform but keep it simple. Dress comfortably in layers and avoid anything with big pockets or hoods. When in doubt about what to wear on exam day, go for comfort and compliance.

Finally, get your bag ready but remember, you won’t be allowed to bring it into the exam room. At Prometric test centers, you’ll be assigned a locker. Look up the Prometric locker size beforehand so you know how much you can carry. Pack only what you need.

The Night Before the Exam

Don’t leave anything to chance. Go through your CFA checklist one more time. Set aside everything you plan to take, including:

• Passport and CFA exam verification letter
• Calculator and spare battery
• Eyeglasses
• Clear water bottle and snacks
• Face mask if applicable

Now turn to your CFA my backpack situation. If you’re taking public transport, consider packing light. If you’re driving, double-check where parking is allowed near the CFA test center.

Also revisit your CFA exam timeline. Know how long the test will last whether it’s CFA Level 1 or Level 3. The CFA Level 1 exam length is about 4.5 hours split into two sessions with a break in between. Use the break wisely.

While you’re at it, remind yourself of the CFA Institute guidelines one more time. You don’t want to be turned away for something avoidable.

Exam Day Morning

Wake up early. Eat a light, energising breakfast. Avoid caffeine overload.

Leave for the test center early. Know exactly where to take the CFA exam. Aim to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before your check-in time.

Here’s your last-minute CFA exam what to bring recap:

• Valid passport
• Exam verification letter
• Calculator with keystroke cards
• Eyeglasses
• Mask if needed
• Snacks and a clear water bottle

You’ll go through identity verification and security screening at the Prometric CFA test center. Staff will assign you a locker. Remember that Prometric locker size is limited so don’t overpack.

Expect biometric checks and personal belongings screening. That includes removing jewellery, watches and any other unauthorised items. Familiarise yourself with the CFA Institute personal belongings policy in advance.

Once seated, breathe. Use the first few minutes to settle in. Don’t panic if a question throws you off. Skip it and return. You’re not here to get every question perfect. You’re here to pass.

After the Exam

You made it. Before leaving, make sure you’ve taken all your belongings from your locker.

Once home, take a moment to unwind. If you’re planning to take another level of the CFA exam, now is a good time to look ahead at the CFA Level 2 study schedule or the CFA Level 3 study plan. Consider reviewing the CFA score calculator to get a sense of where you stand.

And if you’re wondering how to prepare for the CFA exam all over again, think about revisiting your strategy. Many candidates find that using structured CFA exam tips and strategies helps improve their performance the next time around.

Bonus Tip

This CFA exam day checklist isn’t just for first-timers. It’s relevant every time you sit for a new level. So bookmark it, print it or save it to your phone.

The CFA exam day doesn’t need to be a gamble. With the right preparation logistically and mentally, you can walk into that test center with clarity, calm and confidence.

And remember, there’s more to this journey than just passing the exam. It’s about showing up like the professional you’re becoming.

Need help staying on track for future exam dates? Check out our CFA candidate resources including video lessons, study notes, practice questions, mock exams and strategies that go beyond the books.

Now go get it done and don’t forget your calculator.