You can either become a regular member—with qualifying work experience in the investment decision-making process—or an affiliate member of CFA Institute. See the information below to choose the right option for you before you start the application.
Before applying, review the OFAC Compliance Policy. Residents of certain countries or markets may be prohibited by law from becoming a CFA Institute or society member.
Regular Member
We recommend Regular Membership for anyone who has earned their CFA designation and is in good standing with CFA Institute. Membership provides the knowledge, recognition, and industry network that investment professionals need to advance their careers.
Requirements of Regular Membership:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent education/work experience
- A passing score on all three levels of the CFA Exam
- 48 months of professional work experience as defined by CFA Institute
- 2 - 3 professional references
- Have met the requirements to be awarded and to maintain the use of the CFA Charter and adhere to any new standards that may be required Professional Conduct Statement
- Adhere to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
- Sign and submit the Member’s Agreement and the Professional Conduct Statement
Affiliate Member
We recommend affiliate membership for investment professionals who do not intend to participate in the CFA Program or who have not yet met the requirements for regular membership.
Requirements of Regular Membership:
- A bachelor’s degree or equivalent education/work experience
- 2 professional references
- Adhere to the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
- Sign and submit the Member’s Agreement and the Professional Conduct Statement
Professional Leave
CFA Institute has renamed Retired Status to Professional Leave while maintaining the definition (a member is not working in the profession and has been a member for a minimum of five years). Members no longer need to fill out a form for retired membership but rather apply for this membership type directly through their account when renewing their membership. Please select Professional Leave, and then Retired from the drop-down options as your reason for professional leave. Once that is saved to your profile you can go through the renewal process as normal, selecting Professional Leave, and the selecting your local society. CFA Society Detroit dues will be waived for members ages 75 and over.