CAIA^®Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst

1. Structure

CAIA Level 1 consists of six topics (also known as subjects) which are mandatory and examined by a multiple-choice computer based exam. The exam has 200 questions in total, which are divided into two sections of 100 questions each. You have two hours for each 100 question section with an optional 30 minute break.

Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements, however you should have an understanding of the basic concepts of finance and quantitative analysis. If you are less confident with Fixed Income and Derivatives we would recommend for you to study IMC Unit 2 Investment Practice or CISI Capital Markets Programme in Derivatives.

Syllabus

Below is a syllabus overview detailing topics (subjects) and their approximate exam weighting. For more information, please see CAIA’s full syllabus (PDF 800KB) launch.

2.  Study packages

Whatever your learning style, we have a study package for you.

Do you prefer structured learning? We offer classroom, live online or a blended approach. Or do you prefer self study? Then we offer a distance learning package where you can study at your own pace.

Our flexible study packages have been designed to maximise your time, keep you on track, and help you pass your exam. Whichever study package you choose, you’ll receive high quality Schweser study materials, recordings, and continuous support right up to your exam. To see which study package is best for you, please see our infographic launch.

Study methods available for this qualification

picture_as_pdf Study method comparison chart

Or you can choose an individual revision course without the supporting Kaplan Schweser study materials.

Timetables - Classroom and Live Online

Classroom tuition courses take place over six days (from 9-5pm) or 10 evenings (from 6-9pm). Classroom revision courses take place over two days (from 9-5pm).

date_rangeView timetable

Optional extras

We offer a number of optional extras that can be beneficial as part of your studies:

Inhouse training

Our public classroom courses run in central London. Like many of our courses, we can also offer these courses inhouse for your team or organisation. Please contact us on 020 7920 3060 or email us at citybookings@kaplan.co.uk to find out more about how we can help train your team.

3. Exams, sittings and resits

Exams

There are two exam sittings per year, in March and September. You'll need to register with the CAIA Association® launch for exam entry. You need to have passed Level 1 before registering for the Level 2 exam. Exam results are graded either a pass or fail and you should receive results within three weeks of the last examination day.

You have unlimited time to pass the Level 2 exam after passing Level 1 to qualify for the CAIA Charter.

How long does it take to pass?

It’s possible to complete the full CAIA designation within one year, as the exams are held in March and September. The examining body recommends spending a minimum of 200 hours of study time for each level.

What are pass rates like?

Exam pass rate percentages are fluid and change from sitting to sitting. Pass marks are initially set at 70% but may be adjusted downwards depending on the average score in a particular sitting. You must therefore aim to score over 70% to be sure of success.

Can Kaplan help if I fail an exam?

We do all we can to help you to pass the exam. However, if you don't pass first time then don't worry. There are a lots of ways we can support you. What you will be entitled to will depend on the last study package you purchased with us.

What CAIA resits are available

We do everything we can to help you pass your CAIA exam first time. However, should you need a second chance, then don’t worry. With Pass Protection, there are lots of ways we can support you as you prepare for your exam resit. For further information, please refer to our pass protection policy launch.

picture_as_pdfResit enrolment form

4. Study Materials and Delivery Costs

Study Materials

We offer a wealth of study materials to enhance your learning experience. These include hard copy books as well as online resources on Schweser’s study portal. View a full comparison of the study materials launch included in each package.

Classroom, Blended, Live Online and Distance Learning packages all come with core materials, including:

• Getting Started Guide

  Explains how to use the resources effectively to maximise your chance of passing the exam.

• Schweser Online Study Portal

  Includes dashboard with activity feed and performance metrics

• SchweserNotes^™

  Clear, concise study notes and examples that cover every learning outcome statement (downloadable as eBooks as well as in print).

• Quicksheet

  A compact study tool summarising key formulae, definitions and concepts (downloadable as an eBook as well as in print).

• Resource library

  A collection of online reference videos to prepare you for your studies.

• SchweserPro^™ QBank

  Hundreds of practice questions to work through online and build custom exams.

• Schweser Online Mock Exam 1 – 3

  3 full-length practice exams to help you perform on exam day.

• Schweser's Secret Sauce®

  Take this compact book anywhere you go, printed or eBook, for a concise review of the CFA Program curriculum. Secret Sauce provides insights and exam tips on how to effectively prepare and apply your knowledge on exam day.

Additional materials come with the following packages:

• Classroom, Blended and Live Online keyboard_arrow_up keyboard_arrow_down
  • Tuition classroom recordings
  • Revision classroom recordings
  • Tuition course slides
  • Mindmaps and Q&A book
• Distance Learning keyboard_arrow_up keyboard_arrow_down
  • OnDemand Tuition with Workbooks
  • OnDemand Revision with Workbooks

Delivery costs

Materials are delivered to the address you provide us (and must be signed for on delivery). For detailed information on delivery prices please refer to our delivery page.

Kaplan Schweser’s online portal provides access to a wide variety of resources to help you prepare for your exams. It also hosts all our online tuition and revision classes.

Online features

Depending on the study package you choose, features can include the following:

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  View your online materials in one place and access your content in a few clicks
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  Take the guesswork out of your study plan with strategically placed weekly tasks
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  Track your performance against that of other candidates
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  Complete tests and get instant feedback
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  Access on mobile, tablet and computer

For more information on technical support available and minimum system requirements for Kaplan Schweser’s online portal, visit the Schweser portal technical support launch.

Access duration

You can access your content from 48 working hours of purchase (subject to availability) until your examination date.

6. Tutor support

We’ll support you every step of the way throughout your learning experience with us. You can contact a tutor and get the help you need within 48 working hours.

• Email: citybookings@kaplan.co.uk
• Phone: 020 7920 3060

We are open weekdays (excluding bank holidays) 9:00am to 5.30pm. In addition, our classroom tutors will provide you with their personal contact details.

7. Testing and mocks

Vital to passing your exam will be attempting as many questions and mock exams as possible. Depending on your chosen package, you will gain access to over 100 questions in the SchweserPro™ Qbank and three full exam standard practice exams.

If you would like more exam practice you can purchase the Schweser Online Mock 4 as an optional extra.

After the mock, many candidates also take the opportunity of a final 1-2-1 meeting with their tutor.

You can find information about our mocks and 1-2-1s in our comparison table launch.

8. Course pricing and funding options

Pricing structure

Below are our study package prices. The only additional costs will be delivery and if you decide to purchase any optional extras.

You can find information about our packages and optional extras in our comparison table launch.

Payment options

Employer sponsored ›

Your employer may fund the costs of your studies if you’re already working in a related field and want to develop your learning. You’ll need to speak to them to see if you’re eligible and confirm that they’re happy to pay for your studies.

Payment plans ›

Our CAIA packages are covered with our interest-free payment plan, providing the total cost is £500 minimum (including VAT). The plan lets you spread the cost of your studies over a period of up to 12 months, with no extra costs.

How to enrol

Enrol online, call us on 020 7920 3060 or enrol with a form which you can email to citybookings@kaplan.co.uk.

picture_as_pdfDownload enrolment form