How to Apply for CFA® Exam Access Scholarship?

CFA exam / Scholarships / ACCESS SCHOLARSHIP

1. CFA Exam Access Scholarship Application
2. Access Scholarship Application Step by Step
3. CFA Exam Access Scholarship Application Windows
4. Am I Eligible for CFA Exam Access Scholarship?
5. Is It Easy to Get CFA Exam Access Scholarship?
6. Key Takeaways for Access Scholarship Application

CFA Exam Access Scholarship Application

The CFA exam Access Scholarship application process is simple. You need to create an account on the CFA Institute website, fill out the online application, and submit it during the appropriate application window. Importantly, you should not register for your CFA exam before receiving the scholarship decision.

Access Scholarship Application Step by Step

To ensure a smooth application, follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility – Ensure that you qualify for the CFA exam Access Scholarship.
2. Create an account – Go to the CFA Institute website and sign up.
3. Complete the application – Fill in all required details, including financial information.
4. Write your essay – Provide a strong, compelling essay explaining your financial need and motivation to earn the CFA designation.
5. Submit your application – Make sure to apply within the correct Access Scholarship window.
6. Wait for results – CFA Institute will review your application within 4 to 6 weeks after the application window closes and notify you about the decision via email.
7. Register for your exam – If awarded, use your scholarship to register and pay the reduced fee. Mind not to miss the registration deadline set for the CFA exam you've got your scholarship for.

If you need more details about the CFA exam Access Scholarship, visit our blog :)

CFA Exam Access Scholarship Application Windows

The 4 Access Scholarship application windows are fixed for each exam cycle. It's important to know these Access Scholarship application windows because you must apply during the correct timeframe corresponding to the CFA exam you plan to take.

Here are the key CFA exam Access Scholarship dates:

If you wonder How do I apply?, that's what CFA Institute says about the Access Scholarship application: "During the application windows noted above, the Access Scholarship application will be available." All you need to do is set up an account on the CFA Institute website, log in, and fill in your online application.

Am I Eligible for CFA Exam Access Scholarship?

Meeting scholarship eligibility criteria means meeting CFA Program entrance requirements. Generally, Access Scholarship is available to candidates who demonstrate financial need and meet the CFA Program enrollment conditions.

Who Is Eligible?

• Candidates with financial constraints who have NOT yet registered for their CFA exam.
• Candidates meeting CFA Program requirements.

However, sometimes you are ineligible for the CFA Program Access Scholarship.

Who Is Not Eligible?

• Candidates financially supported by their employer in the CFA Program participation.
• Candidates already registered for a CFA exam.
• Candidates still waiting for their CFA exam result.
• Candidates who received a scholarship but did not use it.
• Candidates awarded two scholarships for the same level who did not pass on their second attempt.

Is It Easy to Get CFA Exam Access Scholarship?

No minimum or maximum income or asset level is set for Access Scholarship applicants. You simply need to meet the CFA Program entrance requirements, submit a complete scholarship application, and keep your fingers crossed :)

CFA Institute considers financial need when awarding scholarships, but the application process is competitive. It’s essential to provide a strong essay detailing your needs, achievements, and motivation.

Here's how CFA Institute explains Access Scholarship and its award process: "Access Scholarships are for individuals who may have trouble affording the full cost of the CFA Program, therefore financial need will be strongly considered. Applications will be reviewed and awarded by CFA Institute. All decisions are final."

Key Takeaways for Access Scholarship Application

Applying for the CFA exam Access Scholarship allows you to reduce the cost of taking the CFA exam. Here’s what you need to remember:

• The application process is simple but requires a well-prepared essay.
• There are 4 application windows per year – apply in the right one for your exam.
• Financial need is the primary factor in awarding the scholarship.
• You are not eligible for the Access Scholarship if your employer financially supports your participation in the CFA Program.
• If awarded, use the scholarship for the intended exam – otherwise, you’ll be ineligible in the future.
• If not awarded, you can still benefit from early-bird registration fees.

If you're interested in applying for your scholarship, see also the CFA exam windows in 2025.

PUBLISHED: March 3, 2025

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