CFA® Program Paid Deferral Policy

Please note: Paid deferrals will no longer be offered for the CFA Program beginning with the opening of 2027 exams on 5 May, 2026.  Read here for more detail on policy changes. 

May 2026 Candidates:

The paid deferral window request window will open on 28 April 2026 at 10:00 AM ET and close on 25 May 2026 at 11:59 PM ET.

All other registered candidates: Continue to check back for form availability and deferral request deadlines closer to your exam window.

Candidates may purchase a USD 449 deferral up until the paid deferral deadline. When you purchase a deferral:

• You may postpone your exam appointment for up to 12 months, depending on your exam level and appointment availability. See the table below for eligible exam windows by exam level. Registration and scheduling deadlines apply.
• Your existing registration and scheduled appointment will be cancelled immediately. Please note that your decision is binding and cannot be reversed.
• Only one paid deferral is allowed per paid registration. You will not be able to defer a second time unless you pay for a new registration. No refunds will be available.
• Your progress in the Learning Ecosystem will not be retained or transferred once you re-register for a new exam window.