Structure
Earn the certificate by passing one computer-based exam.
Entry requirements
Although there are no formal requirements, CFA Institute recommends that learners should have a foundational knowledge of the investment process, whether through experience or through a formal qualification.
Syllabus (2024 Curriculum)
Below is a syllabus overview detailing topics and their approximate exam weighting.
| Topic | Topic Weight |
|---|---|
| Introduction to ESG | 7% |
| The ESG Market | 6% |
| Environmental Factors | 12% |
| Social Factors | 12% |
| Governance Factors | 11% |
| Engagement and Stewardship | 9% |
| ESG Analysis, Valuation and Integration | 21% |
| ESG Integrated Portfolio Construction and Management | 13% |
| Investment Mandates, Portfolio Analytics and Client Reporting | 9% |
Online study package
With Schweser’s online study package, you’ll get the flexibility to study where, and when, you want. Our unique online resources are designed to keep you motivated and on track with a year’s access to the platform. During this time you’ll receive:
- 20+ hours of video tuition from our expert tutors
- SchweserPro™ QBank containing 400 exam-like questions
- Activity feed to guide your learning from start to finish
- Two 100-question, realistic Schweser mock exams with exam sim technology
- Access to the new Kaplan Schweser community forum to ask questions and engage in discussions with ESG experts and other learners
- Email access to academic support
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Inhouse training
We can also offer the Certificate in ESG Investing or tailored ESG training to your team or whole organisation.
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Exams and resits
Everything you need to know about the exams can be found below:
You’ll need to register for the exam with CFA Institute.
Once registered, you will have 6 months to schedule and take your exam. As a minimum, allow two working days after receiving your registration confirmation to schedule your exam.
To take the exam under the 2024 curriculum, you must register with CFA Institute by 31st December 2024.
When you register for the exam you will receive a digital copy of the CFA Institute Official Training Manual. You may choose to purchase a hard copy for an additional fee.
Exams are delivered through computer based testing at centres administered by CFA Institute’s testing partner, Pearson Vue.
The exam consists of 100 standard multiple choice and item set questions. It will last for two hours and 20 minutes.
CFA Institute recommends 130 hours of study time to achieve the Certificate in ESG Investing. Experienced professionals may only need around 100 hours to study for this exam.
The global average pass rate is reported to be 71% (source: CFA Institute, December 2022). As a training provider we are not able to report our own pass rates in accordance with CFA Institute.
Exam results will be provided on-screen at the end of the exam and a copy will be emailed to the candidate.
You will be able to take the exam three times within a six month period.
We do everything we can to help you pass your ESG exam first time round. However, if you need a second chance, then don’t worry. With Pass Protection we support you as you prepare for your exam resit. For further information, please refer to our pass protection policy (PDF 20KB).
You can access your resit support by filling in the resit enrolment form.
Kaplan Schweser’s online study portal
You'll gain access to a wide variety of resources to help you prepare for your exams.
Online features
- View your online materials in one place and access your content in a few clicks
- Take the guesswork out of your study plan with strategically placed weekly tasks
- Track your performance against that of other learners
- Complete tests and get instant feedback
- Access on mobile, tablet and computer
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Access duration
You can access your content from 48 working hours of purchase (subject to availability) until your examination date.
Testing and mocks
Vital to passing your exam will be attempting as many questions and mocks as possible. Your online study package will include:
-
SchweserPro™ QBank
Access to 400 unique questions in the SchweserPro™ QBank. Adaptive and personalised technology has taken our world-renowned QBank study tool to the next level. Question difficulty adapts to a student's ability on a given topic, measuring their knowledge and keeping them motivated as they move through the content. -
Schweser Online Mock Exams
Practice taking the computer-based test before exam day with two online Schweser mock exams. This realistic exam simulates the interface, format, difficulty, and length of the exam.
