Description
What your enrolment includes
- Six months’ access to the online learning platform
- Recorded e-seminars to study at your own pace
- Course materials and reference resources
- 400+ multiple-choice practice questions
- Specimen examination material
- One certification examination attempt
The online programme is designed for self-study and does not include individual tutoring.
What you will learn
CESGA helps you move from understanding sustainability issues to assessing their investment implications. You will learn to:
- Identify material ESG risks and opportunities.
- Evaluate companies’ governance, business models and responses to sustainability challenges.
- Translate ESG findings into financial forecasts and valuation.
- Develop engagement objectives and assess progress.
- Incorporate ESG considerations into portfolio decisions.
- Explain your analysis and conclusions to clients, colleagues and other stakeholders.
The curriculum combines European sustainable-finance foundations with international reporting standards and practical investment applications.
ESRS integration is supported by EFRAG. ISSB Standards, including IFRS S1 and IFRS S2, are integrated under licence from the IFRS Foundation.


Is CESGA right for you?
CESGA is designed for investment analysts, portfolio managers, asset owners, advisers, banking and risk professionals, and ESG specialists seeking to apply sustainability information in financial decisions.
There are no formal prerequisites for enrolment. The programme includes financial analysis and investment concepts, so your study needs will depend on your previous experience.
All learning materials and the certification examination are in English. A minimum CEFR B2 level is recommended.
Your curriculum
Modules 1–5: Foundations
Explore ESG market developments, regulation, investment strategies, asset classes and sustainability reporting.
Module 6: The investment process
Connect ESG analysis with investment mandates, stewardship, portfolio construction and monitoring.
Modules 7–9: Research and application
Develop qualitative analysis and quantitative valuation skills, then apply them through research, engagement and portfolio-management cases.
Module 10: Regional perspectives
Explore sustainable-finance developments in Asia-Pacific, Africa, Latin America and North America. This complementary module is not examined.
How to earn the CESGA® designation
1. Enrol and plan your examination
Choose your examination session and available delivery option. Check the registration deadline and technical or venue requirements before completing your booking.
2. Study at your own pace
Work through the programme using the recorded e-seminars, course materials and practice questions. Use the specimen examination material to prepare for the assessment.
3. Pass the certification examination
Demonstrate your knowledge and practical application skills to earn the EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst® designation.

Frequently asked questions
How much time should I allow for study?
We recommend 80–120 hours for candidates with no prior ESG experience. Your preparation time may vary depending on your professional background and familiarity with financial analysis.
How long can I access the course?
Your enrolment includes six months’ access to the online learning platform. A six-month extension is available for €425 excl. VAT.
Do I need an existing qualification to enrol?
No. There are no formal prerequisites or minimum entry requirements.
Is individual tutoring included?
No. The EFFAS Academy online programme is designed for self-study. If you are looking for a tutor-supported option, contact your local EFFAS National Member Society or training partner to ask whether one is available.
Can I take the examination from home?
Yes, through the remotely proctored online option, provided you meet the technical and examination-environment requirements set out in the Online Exam Guide.
What do I receive if I pass?
Successful candidates earn the EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst® designation and join the international community of CESGA certificate holders.
I already hold the CESGA designation. Do I need to enrol again?
No. Your existing CESGA designation remains valid. If you would like to refresh your knowledge, ask us about the separate CESGA 5.0 Refresh option.
Questions before you enrol?
Contact us for help with course access, examination arrangements or registration.



