📅 2026 Update: Changes to CFA Institute Exam Policies and Services

Since the original article was published, there have been some important updates regarding the CFA Institute and its exam policies. These changes could impact candidates preparing for the CFA exams. The earlier article provides a solid foundation of general information on corporate law, which continues further down the page.

📊 Updated CFA Exam Calculator Policy

As of January 12, 2026, the CFA Institute made changes to its exam calculator policy. Now, only two specific calculator models are allowed during exams. These models are the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the Professional version) and the Hewlett Packard 12C (which includes several special editions).

This means candidates should ensure they have one of these models ready for their exam.

  • 🔍 Important: Double-check that your calculator model is allowed to avoid issues on exam day.

📝 Registration Process and Deadlines

To register for the CFA exam, candidates must create an account on the CFA Institute's website. They will need to select an exam level and complete the registration steps, including choosing an exam date and location. Registration deadlines vary based on the level and exam window.

  • ⏳ Tip: Consult the CFA Institute's official website for the most current deadlines to ensure you don't miss out.

🔍 Exam Results Processing Times

CFA exam results are typically available within 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window closes. This timeline is important for candidates who are eager to know their results and plan their next steps.

  • 📅 Expectation: Be prepared for a wait, but know the results will arrive within this timeframe.

📚 Available Study Resources

The CFA Institute offers free resources to help candidates study. These include study materials and practice exams. Utilizing these resources can improve your preparation and understanding of the exam material.

  • 📖 Resource: Check out the free materials available on the CFA Institute's website to aid your study efforts.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 🛠️ Updated calculator policy allows only specific models.
  • 📅 Registration steps require account creation and deadline awareness.
  • ⏳ Exam results are available within 5 to 9 weeks post-exam.
  • 📚 Free study materials are available from the CFA Institute.

💡 Tips for Preparing for the CFA Exam

Before making any decisions about your exam preparation, it is essential to go over the details of your own situation with your attorney.

📌 Understand Eligibility Rules

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of undergraduate studies to take the CFA Level I exam. Confirm your eligibility before starting the registration process to avoid delays.

📅 Plan Ahead for Registration

Take note of registration deadlines for the CFA exams, as they vary by level and exam window. Being aware of these deadlines helps you avoid last-minute scrambles.

📖 Utilize Available Resources

The CFA Institute provides free study materials and practice exams. These resources can be invaluable in helping you understand the exam format and content.

⏳ Keep Track of Processing Times

Remember that exam results are usually available within 5 to 9 weeks after the exam. Plan your next steps based on this timeline.

🛠️ Choose the Right Calculator

Make sure to use one of the permitted calculators during the exam. This will prevent any disruptions or issues on exam day.

🏆 Top Services for Corporate Law and Business Formation (Ranked by User Reviews 2026)

This section highlights services related to business formation and legal document preparation, which are relevant to corporate law. The order follows Trustpilot ratings as of October 2026, and scores may change over time. Star ratings reflect user experiences, but it's essential to note that unhappy customers often leave more reviews, which may affect the overall score.

🥇 1. Rocket Lawyer

Rocket Lawyer has been rated 4.5. This service is known for providing legal document creation, legal advice, and business formation services. However, some users find the subscription model costly, and there have been occasional issues with customer support responsiveness.

🥈 2. LegalZoom

LegalZoom holds a rating of 4.6. It is recognized for its business formation services, legal document preparation, and registered agent services. Users have reported delays in processing times, and there are occasional concerns regarding customer support responsiveness.

🥉 3. Bizee

Bizee averages a score of 4.8. It is known for its business formation services, registered agent services, and compliance services. Some users have faced issues with website navigation and occasional delays in document processing.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

The CFA Institute offers free resources, including study materials and practice exams, to assist candidates preparing for the CFA exam. These resources can help candidates gain familiarity with the exam format and improve their chances of success.

🔎 Factors to Compare When Choosing a Service

  • 📋 Check the Trustpilot score and number of reviews.
  • 🏷️ Determine what services are included in the package.
  • 🕒 Consider processing times for services.
  • 📞 Evaluate the customer support experience.
  • 💲 Review the pricing structure and any hidden fees.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the CFA exam's eligibility requirement?

Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of undergraduate studies to take the CFA Level I exam.

🕒 How long does it take to receive CFA exam results?

CFA exam results are typically available within 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window closes.

📝 What calculators are allowed during the CFA exam?

As of January 12, 2026, only the Texas Instruments BA II Plus and Hewlett Packard 12C calculators are permitted during the CFA exams.

📅 Where can I find the registration deadlines for the CFA exams?

Registration deadlines vary by exam level and window. It’s best to check the CFA Institute's official website for the most current information.

📚 Are there free resources available for CFA exam preparation?

Yes, the CFA Institute provides free study materials and practice exams to assist candidates in their preparation.

🛠️ What should I do if I miss the registration deadline?

If you miss the registration deadline, you may need to wait for the next exam window. Keep an eye on the CFA Institute's official website for future deadlines and opportunities.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Corporate Law

Recent court rulings can impact corporate law and the formation and operation of corporations. These decisions shape the legal landscape in which businesses operate.

For more recent rulings, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update







What is the CFA Institute? 



The CFA institute is a global not for profit association of investment professionals that is responsible for administering—and subsequently awarding upon completion--the chartered financial analyst and the Certificate in Investment Performance Measurement. In addition to administering the tests and offering the charter, the CFA institute distributes a range of educational resources and services for the charter’s members, program candidates, employers, institutions, the media and investors. 



The Chartered Financial Analyst designation is an international professional license or designation offered by the CFA institute to financial professionals who successfully pass a series of three examinations. In order to become a CFA Chaterholder, candidates must successfully complete each of the three six-hour exams offered by the CFA institute and possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Furthermore, the CFA institute requires candidates to possess at least 48 months of qualified or professional work experience in a related field. If passed, all CFA charter holders are obligated to adhere to a strict code of ethics and standards which govern their professional conduct. 

CFA Institute


The CFA Institute was originally established in 1947 when it was referred to as the Financial Analysts Federation. In hopes of boosting the credentials of the public, the CFA Institute was created as a result of the merger between the FAF and the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts. The CFA program began in the United States but became increasingly popular overseas, with many professionally becoming charter holders across Asia, Australia and Europe. The CFA designation was first awarded in 1963; currently the CFA institute is home to more than 100,000 members around the world. 



CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics:



All members of the CFA institute, including all candidates and charterholders for the CFA designation must adhere to the following code of ethics:



• The CFA institute requires all candidates and charterholders to act with integrity, diligence, respect, competence and in an ethical manner with the public, all prospective clients, employers, employees, clients and colleagues in the investment profession. 



• The CFA institute requires all charterholders and members of the organization to place the integrity of the investment profession and the interests of the client above their own personal interests



• The CFA institute requires all individual members and charterholders to use reasonable care and exercise professional judgment when conducting investment analysis, offering investment recommendations and affirming investment initiatives. 



• The CFA institute wants its members to practice and encourage others to practice their profession in an ethical manner that will reflect responsibility and credit on themselves and their profession.



• The CFA institute promotes the integrity of the capital markets; the CFA Institute aims at achieving this by upholding the rules governing the profession



• The CFA institute maintains and improves the professional competence of its members who in turn must strive to maintain and improve the competence of other investment professionals.