CAIA Level 1 Registration 2026: Exam Windows, Fees, and Deadlines
- Dimitri Dangeros, CFA, CAIA
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
As the alternative-asset industry continues to expand, securing the CAIA Level 1 credential is becoming increasingly attractive. If you’re planning ahead for the CAIA Level 1 Registration 2026, it’s critical to understand the key timelines, costs, and registration logistics so that you can maximize your chances of success. Below is a detailed guide based on the most current information provided by the CAIA Association.
2026 CAIA Level 1 Exam Windows
For 2026, the CAIA Association is offering two test windows for the Level I exam: a March session and a September session.
March 2026 window: March 2 to March 13.
September 2026 window: August 31 to September 11.
These scheduling options give candidates flexibility, whether you want to accelerate your program or spread your study over a longer period.
Key Registration Deadlines for CAIA Level 1 (2026)
To register for the 2026 Level I exam, you need to be aware of the registration opening dates, early-registration cutoffs, and closing dates:
March 2026 Session
Registration opens: October 13, 2025
Early registration deadline: December 8, 2025
Final registration close: February 2, 2026
September 2026 Session
Registration opens: April 13, 2026
Early registration deadline: June 8, 2026
Registration closes: August 3, 2026
Fees for CAIA Level 1 Registration in 2026
Understanding the cost structure is crucial when planning your CAIA journey. The CAIA Level 1 Registration 2026 involves several components:
Enrollment Fee:
A one-time, non-refundable US$ 400 program enrollment fee applies when you register for Level I for the first time.
Exam Registration Fee:
For first-time Level I candidates, the early registration exam fee is US$ 995.
The standard (late) exam registration fee is US$ 1,395, which also includes access to the digital curriculum.
Retake Fee:
If you are retaking the Level I exam (whether you failed previously or did not show up), the fixed retake fee is US$ 795.
Putting this together, a first-time candidate registering early for the CAIA Level 1 in 2026 would pay a total of US$ 1,395 (US$ 400 + US$ 995).
Registration Policies & Important Conditions
Here are some critical policy details for your CAIA Level 1 Registration 2026:
Non-Refundable Enrollment: The one-time enrollment fee is non-refundable.
Limited Refund Window for Exam Fee: You can cancel and request a refund of your exam registration fee (but not the enrollment fee) if you do so within 14 days of purchase.
No Deferrals: Once you register for a specific exam session (March or September), you cannot move your registration to another window.
Rescheduling Within Window:
You may reschedule your appointment within the same exam window (for example, change your date or test center), subject to costs:
If you reschedule 30+ days before, it’s free.
If you reschedule 5–29 days before the window, there’s a US$ 50 rescheduling fee.
Less than 5 days before, changes are not allowed.
Scheduling via Prometric: After registering, you must schedule your appointment through Prometric, using your CAIA ID. Testing centers fill on a first-come, first-served basis, so you should do this early.
Proctoring Options: Online proctored exams are available only by exception (accommodation).
Why These Details Matter for Your CAIA Level 1 Journey
Getting the CAIA Level 1 Registration 2026 right is more than just paying the fee: it’s a strategic decision. Here’s why:
Cost Savings: Early registration saves you US$ 400 on the exam fee — over 28% compared to standard registration.
Securing a Seat: Because appointments rely on Prometric centers and are limited, early scheduling after registration is essential to get your preferred date and location.
Study Planning: Knowing your exact exam window (March vs. September) allows you to plan your study timeline more precisely — including when to begin, when to intensify, and when to take mock exams.
Risk Mitigation: Understanding refund and rescheduling rules lets you plan contingencies (e.g., work conflicts, health issues) without losing your entire investment.
Study Commitment to Consider
While this guide focuses on registration logistics, it’s useful to be aware of expected study commitments: The CAIA Association recommends a minimum of 200 hours of preparation per level. If you’re registering now for the 2026 exam, map out a study plan that gives you enough time to cover the curriculum, do practice questions, and revise thoroughly.
Final Take-Home for CAIA Level 1 Registration 2026
Two exam windows for Level 1 in 2026: March (2–13) and September (31 Aug–11 Sep).
Key registration dates:
March window: Registration opens Oct 13, 2025; early deadline Dec 8, 2025; closes Feb 2, 2026.
September window: Registration opens Apr 13, 2026; early deadline June 8, 2026; closes Aug 3, 2026.
Cost breakdown:
US$ 400 enrollment fee (one-time) + US$ 995 exam fee (early) = US$ 1,395 total for new candidates.
Retake fee is US$ 795.
Rescheduling policies: free if 30+ days in advance, US$ 50 for 5–29 days, no changes < 5 days.
Refunds are only possible for the exam registration fee (not enrollment) if canceled within 14 days.
After registering, schedule your test via Prometric.
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