Becoming a Chartered Alternative Investments Analyst is an excellent way to break into a job with a firm that specializes in alternative investments such as hedge funds, venture capital, private equity and real estate. Here are the basic facts to know if you want to become a CAIA Charterholder.
Required Education & Work Experience
You can take and pass the CAIA exam while still in school. However, to officially claim the CAIA charter, you will need a bachelor’s degree and one year of relevant work experience, or at least four years of relevant experience without a degree.
If you do not meet these requirements, you can apply to be an Affiliate Member of the CAIA Association while you complete your requirements for becoming a charterholder.
Taking the CAIA Exam
There are no prerequisites to take the CAIA exam, specifically, but you will need a strong understanding of financial and investment concepts to pass the exam. The exam consists of two parts that cover topics ranging from qualitative analysis, trading theories of alternative investments, to indexation and benchmarking.
The two levels must be taken in different exam cycles, which only occur during the months of March and September.
Professional References & Ethics Agreement
In addition to passing both levels of the CAIA exam, candidates will need provide two professional references as well as agree to abide by the terms and conditions of the CAIA Association Member Agreement.
Apply for CAIA Association Membership
After completing the prior steps, candidates will need to apply for membership in the CAIA Assocation and pay the $350 annual dues.
Ready to learn more? Find out what the CAIA® program entails.