Preparing for the CFA Program exam involves more than mastering the curriculum. Adherence to specific guidelines set by the CFA Institute is crucial to avoid unnecessary stress on exam day. Among these guidelines, two requirements stand out: a valid travel passport and an approved calculator. Let's dive into why these are essential and guide you on selecting the right calculator.

Key Takeaways:

1. • A valid international travel passport is mandatory for CFA exam entry — national IDs and driver's licenses are not accepted.
   • Only two calculator models are approved: Texas Instruments BA II Plus and Hewlett Packard 12C (including their variants).
   • Each CFA level permits a maximum of six lifetime attempts, with at most two sittings per calendar year and no consecutive windows.

Passport: A Non-Negotiable Requirement

Every CFA candidate must present a valid international travel passport to sit for the exam. Without it, you will be denied entry to the exam venue. National identity cards, driver's licenses, or any other forms of identification are not acceptable. The CFA Institute's emphasis on a passport ensures uniformity and avoids discrepancies across its global candidate base.

1. • It must be valid on your exam day.
   • The name on your passport must exactly match the name registered with the CFA Institute.
   • Ensure that your passport is in good condition, with no significant damage or missing pages.

The Approved Calculators

Only two calculator models are authorized for use during CFA exams:

1. • Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the BA II Plus Professional)
   • Hewlett Packard 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum, 12C Platinum 25th Anniversary Edition, 12C 30th Anniversary Edition, and HP 12C Prestige)

Which Calculator Should You Buy?

Both calculators are reliable and have been the go-to options for CFA candidates for years. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

Where to Buy?

These calculators are readily available on e-commerce platforms and in local electronic stores. Be cautious about counterfeits and ensure you purchase from a reliable source.

Attempts, Spacing, and Scheduling Rules

Each level permits a maximum of six lifetime attempts, and attempts include partially completed sittings where only one session is finished. Candidates may test at most twice per calendar year (when applicable) and not in consecutive windows or windows less than six months apart, which requires careful planning of bookings, reschedules, and withdrawals to avoid forfeitures.

Know Deferral and Refund Options in Advance

Refunds for the CFA Program are tightly time-boxed; a full refund of enrollment and registration fees is typically available only within 14 days of purchase, after which fees are non-refundable under the standard policy. CFA's deferral policy includes pathways for paid or emergency options with documentation and deadlines; terms evolve, so checking the current policy and knowledge articles before scheduling mitigates financial and timing risks.

Tips for Exam Day

1. • Carry a spare battery or an additional calculator (if feasible) to avoid disruptions during the exam.
   • Familiarize yourself with your calculator's functions well in advance. Practice solving exam-style questions using the same calculator to enhance efficiency.
   • Double-check that you have packed your passport and calculator the night before the exam.

Conclusion

While the curriculum and practice take center stage in your CFA journey, these logistical aspects are equally important. Ensure you have your valid international travel passport and the approved calculator ready well before exam day. Choosing the right calculator depends on your preferences, but rest assured, either option will serve you effectively.