Standard VII(B) Reference to CFA Institute, the CFA Designation, and the CFA Program

what is Standard VII(B) Reference to CFA Institute, the CFA Designation, and the CFA Program

When referring to CFA Institute, CFA Institute membership, the CFA designation, or candidacy in the CFA Program, Members and Candidates must not misrepresent or exaggerate the meaning or implications of membership in CFA Institute, holding the CFA designation, or candidacy in the CFA Program.

• Active Members May state they are CFA Institute members and reference membership accurately.

• To Remain an Active Member submit annual Professional Conduct Statement (PCS) and pay annual membership dues.

• If Membership Lapses you cannot claim to be a current CFA Institute member. Instead:

  • "Former CFA Institute member."

  • Membership dates held.

how to use “CFA” designation?

• Use the designation "CFA" after their name.

• Explain factually how the charter was earned.

• Discuss the rigor of the CFA Program.

• Maintain CFA Institute membership.

• Submit the annual PCS.

• Pay membership dues.

Prohibited

Using "CFA" in:

• Anonymous usernames

• Pseudonyms

• Accounts designed to conceal identity

who is a CFA candidate?

• Is registered and enrolled for an upcoming exam, or

• Has taken an exam and is awaiting results.

• There is no partial CFA designation.

• Passing Levels I, II, or III does not grant any designation.