CGIB Exam Information
CGIB exam dates & fees
The CGIB exam is a three-part exam – Level I, Level II, and Level III. Testing the knowledge and skills of financial analysts, each level of the curriculum builds on the prior level, becoming increasingly complex.
These three levels equip you with real-world skills in investment analysis and make up the CGIB Program. Once completed, you can become a globally recognized Chartered Global Investment Banker (CGIB) – a prestigious distinction that differentiates you in the competitive finance industry.
One-time Enrollment Fee : $200
Level 1
- Credential - 3 levels / 3 exams
- Advanced level
- 150 hours of required learning
Level 2
- Credential - 3 levels / 3 exams
- Advanced level
- 150 hours of required learning
Level 3
- Credential - 3 levels / 3 exams
- Advanced level
- 150 hours of required learning
Exam Approach
The CGIB® Level 1 exam introduces candidates to the foundational pillars of investment banking, integrating theory with practice. It focuses on developing technical literacy, professional ethics, and market awareness essential for an analyst’s role.
Through a mix of conceptual frameworks, financial tools, and case-based learning, Level 1 builds the groundwork for Level 2’s advanced applications. Candidates gain a holistic view of global capital markets, corporate finance, accounting, and valuation fundamentals—preparing them to interpret real-world transactions and financial statements confidently.
All modules are reviewed annually by the CGIB Global Curriculum Committee to ensure alignment with the rapidly evolving investment banking ecosystem.
Exam Level
| Module | Key Topics | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Module 1 |
Global Investment Banking Landscape & Capital Markets |
This introductory module orients candidates to the investment banking ecosystem, its structure, evolution, and core functions. It explains how investment banks facilitate global capital formation, serve corporate clients, and interact with investors and regulators. |
|
Module 2 |
Financial Instruments & Asset Classes: Equity, Debt, FX, Commodities & Alternatives |
This module introduces the major financial instruments and markets that define global investing. Candidates gain a clear understanding of how instruments are issued, traded, and valued. |
|
Module 3 |
Business Economics & EIC Framework (Economy–Industry–Company Analysis) |
This module develops analytical capability using a top-down investment approach, connecting macroeconomic indicators with industry and company performance. |
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Module 4 |
Accounting for Bankers: Financial Reporting & Statement Analysis |
Candidates learn to interpret financial statements from a banker’s perspective—understanding how accounting decisions impact valuation, lending, and deal-making. |
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Module 5 |
Corporate Finance & Valuation Fundamentals |
This module provides an essential foundation in corporate decision-making and valuation—core to investment banking advisory. |
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Module 6 |
The Investor’s Compass – Risk, Returns & Market Misconduct |
An applied learning module that introduces candidates to risk-adjusted returns and the behavioral and ethical dimensions of market integrity. |
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Module 7 |
Credit Analysis & Ratings: Principles, Methodologies & Applications |
This module introduces the credit evaluation frameworks used by banks and rating agencies to assess borrowers and issuers. |
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Module 8 |
Sources of Capital & Investor Classes: From Angels to Hedge Funds |
Candidates gain insight into the global capital ecosystem, from early-stage investors to institutional funds. |
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Module 9 |
Deal Structuring & Transaction Documentation: IPOs, M&A, LBOs & Beyond |
A practical introduction to deal execution and documentation across major investment banking activities. |
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Module 10 |
Ethics, Regulations & Business Law in Investment Banking |
The concluding module instills the ethical and regulatory discipline essential for banking professionals operating in global markets. |
| Module | Key Topics | Weight |
|---|---|---|
|
Module 1 |
Corporate Finance & Financial Modelling Mastery |
This advanced module transforms foundational corporate finance into applied investment banking execution. Candidates master integrated financial modeling, including 3-statement model construction, forecasting, and sensitivity/scenario analysis. |
|
Module 2 |
Strategic Valuation Frameworks |
Candidates advance to complex valuation methodologies used in global investment banking and equity research. The focus is on practical application across varying deal contexts. |
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Module 3 |
Mergers & Acquisitions Strategy |
A deep strategic dive into the M&A lifecycle, covering rationale, pricing, negotiation, and integration. The module emphasizes deal psychology and cross-border complexities. |
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Module 4 |
Leveraged Buyouts & Advanced Deal Structuring |
Candidates explore LBO mechanics and the art of structuring leveraged transactions for optimal value creation. This includes hybrid and tax-efficient deal design. |
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Module 5 |
Corporate Restructuring & Turnaround Strategies |
This module equips candidates to analyze and execute restructuring mandates, turnaround strategies, and post-merger integrations. |
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Module 6 |
Private Equity, Venture Capital & Alternatives |
Focused on buy-side finance, this module introduces advanced PE, VC, and alternative investment strategies. It emphasizes fund structures, due diligence, and exit planning. |
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Module 7 |
Debt Capital Markets & Fixed Income Leadership |
An in-depth examination of global debt market operations, syndication processes, and regulatory frameworks. Candidates learn to originate, structure, and price debt issues. |
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Module 8 |
Equity Capital Markets – IPOs & Public Offerings |
This module provides mastery over equity issuance processes and public offering mechanics, from pre-IPO strategy to listing execution. |
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Module 9 |
Strategic Placements & Advanced Equity Structures |
Candidates learn to execute specialized equity transactions beyond IPOs—aligning capital strategy with investor targeting and governance considerations. |
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Module 10 |
Governance, Ethics & Risk in Investment Banking |
This capstone module reinforces ethical judgment, regulatory acumen, and risk management discipline essential for leadership roles in global finance. |
Eligibility and Requirements
Undergraduates, graduates, and working professionals can enroll. Those with CA, CS, CMA, or CFA qualifications might be exempt from the first level. To get the CGIB designation, candidates need to complete all levels, a capstone project, and have one year of relevant work experience or an internship.
Frequently Asked Question
How often are CGIB exams?
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