The CFA Institute's ESG Investing Exam is a critical assessment for professionals aiming to demonstrate expertise in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. Understanding the exam format, time management strategies, and question content can help maximize performance. Below is a focused guide on what to expect during the exam.
Exam Format and Structure
The CFA ESG exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, with a strict time limit of 2 hours and 20 minutes (140 minutes). This means you have approximately 1.4 minutes per question. The exam is closed-book, and no external resources are allowed.
Types of Questions
The questions in the (few) official tests available on the ESG Investing curriculum are very similar to those reported in the actual exam. Our mock exams are built on our firsthand experience of the exam, with the aim of replicating the complexities of the actual exam and giving you a safe but real exam experience.
Time Management Strategy
To complete the exam efficiently, consider the following:
First Pass (60-70 minutes): Go through all questions quickly, answering those that are straightforward and marking more complex ones for later.
Second Pass (40-50 minutes): Return to marked questions, using elimination techniques and logical reasoning.
Final Review (10-20 minutes): Double-check flagged questions and ensure no answers are left blank (there is no penalty for incorrect answers).
Navigating the Exam Interface
The digital format provides a question navigation panel, allowing you to mark questions for review.
A built-in calculator is available for simple numerical calculations.
A time tracker is displayed on-screen, so monitor your pace accordingly.
If taking the test at a center, you may receive scratch paper for rough work (varies by location).
Handling Difficult Questions
Eliminate incorrect answers to increase the probability of selecting the right one.
Use logical deduction—even if unsure, ESG principles often favor stakeholder value, sustainability, and regulatory compliance.
Avoid overthinking—if a question seems ambiguous, choose the best available answer and move on.
After the Exam
Once the exam is completed, ensure all answers are submitted. Results are typically released right away, showing a pass/fail notification.
Final Thoughts
Success in the CFA ESG exam requires both subject knowledge and effective time management. By familiarizing yourself with the question types and maintaining a strategic approach to pacing, you can confidently complete the exam and maximize your chances of passing. Additionally, preparing with mock exams and practice questions is highly beneficial, as it helps build familiarity with the exam format, reinforces knowledge retention, and boosts confidence under timed conditions. Make sure to review your weak areas and refine your test-taking strategies accordingly. Good luck!
