The Chartered Private Equity Professional (CPEP™) designation is a globally recognized credential that enhances your expertise and career in private equity. Developed to align with the rigorous hiring standards of top private equity and venture capital firms, the CPEP™ helps you stand out in a competitive industry.
With flexible registration options, the CPEP™ is perfect for professionals from various backgrounds—including those studying or with experience in financial analysis, capital markets, accounting, or investing.
Aligned with USPEC standards and enriched by insights from industry leaders, the CPEP™ exam covers key concepts, principles, and best practices in private equity and venture capital. Whether you're an established professional, a student getting ready to enter into private equity, or just starting your career, the CPEP™ Charter offers a clear path for growth and career advancement.
Covers 22 essential topics in private equity and alternative investments, providing a well-rounded foundation for success.
Practical evaluations based on real-life scenarios to ensure actionable skills and hands-on expertise.
Industry-leading IFIS™ Framework, guaranteeing rigor and relevance for professional excellence.
365 days to study, prepare, and schedule the exam at your convenience.
The exam is fully online and digitally proctored, offering ease of access from anywhere in the world.
Earn a respected credential that is valued by leading private equity and venture capital firms worldwide.
The CPEP™ qualification is ideal for working professionals, students, transitioning to this field, or beginning a career in it. The CPEP™ offers a reputable path to achieving professional goals.
Bachelor's qualification in finance or accounting with strong fundamental and foundational knowledge or MBA/ Master's in finance/ accounting.
Currently working in finance sub-functions with two years of experience and seeking to upskill with the latest.
Professional experience with three years in investment banking, M&A, private equity, financial engineering, or a similar function.
Professionals in early to mid-career stage who are looking to transition into private equity markets.
Achieving the CPEP™ designation sets you apart as a leading expert in private equity. After passing the exam, you’ll receive an exclusive credential kit featuring a printed certificate, a prestigious lapel pin, and a digital badge that you can proudly share on LinkedIn and other professional networks.
The CPEP™ Charter is globally recognized by top firms, enhancing your credibility and validating your expertise. It’s more than just a certification—it’s a mark of excellence that employers can easily verify, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
Display your CPEP™ on your resume and professional profiles to show your commitment to growth, stand out to hiring managers, and make an impact in the industry. Your next career milestone is within reach.
*The images are for representation only.
The application process involves four steps:
The CPEP™ learning resources, which includes the USPEC Handbook for Mastering Private Equity and the Private Equity Casebook, is physically shipped to your registered address. Delivery typically takes 3–4 weeks from the date of payment confirmation. Shipping costs are included in the program fee.
Yes. The CPEP™ is a self-paced, fully online for working professionals and students. The entire process, including study, assignment submissions, and the exam, is completed remotely on a schedule that suits you, within the 365 days after registration.
The all-inclusive CPEP™ program fee is USD 850. This covers the exam-study handbooks, two assignment submissions, the CPEP™ exam (first attempt), a digital badge via CredBadge™, a printed certificate, a lapel pin, a welcome letter, a code of ethics booklet, and shipping of all physical materials. No additional fees are charged.
You have up to 365 days (one year) from registration to study for and take the CPEP™ exam. Preparation time varies by individual background and study pace.
The CPEP™ exam follows a multi-stage assessment process. Candidates are required to complete and submit two assignments, one on PE Deal Design & Execution and another on PE Fund Management, via their myUSPEC dashboard before they can schedule the final exam. The final exam is a 90-minute, 50-question online test taken through the ExamStrong™ portal at a pre-scheduled time.
CPEP™ has defined eligibility requirements based on education and professional work experience. Please read more here.
No. Once awarded, the CPEP™ Charter does not expire and does not require periodic renewal. It is a lifetime credential that recognizes your qualification in private equity.