CESGA Exam – 25 September
CESGA® Common Examination
September 2026 Examination Session
The CESGA® Common Examination is the final assessment leading to the internationally recognised Certified ESG Analyst® (CESGA®) designation awarded by EFFAS.
The examination evaluates candidates’ ability to apply ESG concepts, regulatory knowledge and sustainable investment analysis across the complete CESGA syllabus. Rather than testing memorisation alone, the examination is designed to assess practical judgement, analytical thinking and the integration of ESG considerations into real-world investment decisions.
The September 2026 examination session will take place on Friday, 25 September 2026, and is available to candidates who have completed the CESGA programme and successfully registered for this examination session.
Whether you are taking the examination online or at an approved examination venue, this page provides all the information you need to prepare for examination day.
Key Dates
Keep these important dates in mind when planning your examination.
| Milestone | Date |
| Registration Deadline | 17 August 2026 |
| CESGA Common Examination | 25 September 2026 |
| Examination Duration | 150 minutes |
| Results Available | Within 6–8 weeks after the examination |
Register before 17 August 2026 to secure your place in the September examination session.
Examination at a Glance
The CESGA Common Examination combines theoretical knowledge with practical application.
| Format | Online examination |
| Duration | 150 minutes |
| Structure | 20 Multiple Choice Questions + 1 Practical Case Study |
| Total Marks | 120 |
| Pass Mark | More than 50% overall and at least 30% in each section |
| Exam Sessions | Four sessions each year |
Examination Structure
The examination consists of two equally weighted sections.
Multiple Choice Questions
The first section contains 20 multiple-choice questions covering Modules 1 to 8 of the CESGA syllabus.
Candidates should answer only those questions for which they are confident of the correct response, as incorrect answers attract negative marking.
This section represents 50% of the total examination score.
Practical Case Study
The second section consists of one practical case study containing nine open questions based on Module 9 (Integration).
Candidates are expected to demonstrate their ability to analyse ESG information, apply the concepts studied throughout the programme and formulate structured investment recommendations supported by sound reasoning.
This section also represents 50% of the total examination score.
Demonstrate Your ESG Competence
The CESGA Common Examination is designed to confirm that successful candidates can apply ESG knowledge confidently in professional investment environments.
Rather than testing memorisation alone, the examination measures your ability to:
✔ Analyse ESG-related investment issues
✔ Interpret sustainability regulations and reporting frameworks
✔ Evaluate ESG risks and opportunities
✔ Integrate ESG considerations into investment decisions
✔ Apply professional judgement through a practical case study
Successful candidates demonstrate the knowledge and analytical skills expected from internationally recognised Certified ESG Analysts.
Preparing for the Examination
A successful examination experience starts well before examination day.
We strongly recommend completing every preparation step several days before your scheduled examination.
Before examination day you should:
✔ Read the Online Examination Guide
✔ Complete the compatibility check
✔ Complete the 10-minute mock examination
✔ Test your webcam and microphone
✔ Prepare your passport or photo ID
✔ Install Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox (Safari is not supported)
✔ Ensure you have a quiet room with a clean desk available for the examination
Examination Rules
To preserve the integrity of the CESGA certification, all candidates must comply with the examination regulations.
During the examination:
✔ You must remain alone in the examination room.
✔ Your desk must remain completely clear.
✔ Printed material and handwritten notes are prohibited.
✔ Mobile phones and additional electronic devices are not permitted.
✔ Headphones may not be used.
✔ Candidates must remain visible to the online proctor throughout the examination.
✔ Communication with any third party during the examination is strictly prohibited.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in immediate disqualification.
Examination Results
EFFAS will publish the examination results approximately six to eight weeks after the examination.
Results are communicated simply as: Suitable or Not Suitable.
Detailed score reports and answer breakdowns are not provided.
Need Technical Support?
If you experience a technical issue before or during the examination, please contact Mercer Mettl Support immediately.
mettl-support@mercer.com
UK: +44 1665 667000
USA: +1 650 924 9221
India: +91 82878 03040
If possible, include a screenshot of the issue and copy EFFAS in your email so we can assist you as quickly as possible
exam@effas-academy.com
Candidate Resources
Everything you need in one place.
Ready for Your CESGA Examination?
The CESGA certification represents one of Europe’s leading professional ESG qualifications. Careful preparation will allow you to focus on demonstrating your knowledge and applying the concepts you have developed throughout the programme.
We wish you every success in your September 2026 CESGA Common Examination.
