The CAIA Stackable Credential Program: What is it?

With the CFA charter, qualified candidates can skip Level I of the demanding two-part Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) test thanks to the CAIA Stackable Credential Program. In order to go on to Level II of the CAIA exam, qualifying applicants must be able to "stack" their CFA charter knowledge and credentials. What the program is, how it operates, and who qualifies are all described in this blog.

The CAIA Stackable Credential Program: Why Was It Created?

It's not new to use the knowledge you receive from obtaining one financial credential to help you obtain another. For instance, several of the educational prerequisites for obtaining the CFP mark are waived for CFA charterholders. The CAIA Association clearly acknowledges that the knowledge requirements for the CFA and CAIA certificates overlap. In order to further this initiative, the CAIA Association has decided to exempt qualified CFA charterholders from having to take the Level I CAIA test.

How To Apply for The CAIA Stackable Credential Program?

Once you have decided to pursue the CAIA Stackable Credential Program, you can begin the registration process on the CAIA Exam Registration and Fees page.  Be sure to follow the registration directions under the ‘Application and Fees’ header on CAIA Association’s program page. Once you complete the registration, your application is entered into a verification queue. You will receive notification that your application has been received with further information regarding the verification process.

Are You Eligible for the CAIA Stackable Credential Program?

The eligibility requirements for the CAIA Stackable Credential program are as follows:

• No existing CAIA exam history
• Being a CFA charterholder in good standing
• A CFA digital badge, verifiable by CAIA Association
• Applying and registering for the program during CAIA’s exam registration periods

It’s important to note that program participants are not eligible for the CAIA Gateway Scholarship or any other CAIA scholarship program. CAIA Academic Partner faculty, who are CFA charterholders, should contact CAIA Association for more information regarding their program eligibility.