Real-time and real-world investment research reports are the hallmark of the vigorous Chartered Securities Analyst (CSA)^TM Program.

In addition to proctored exams every year, the three-year CSA Program involve multiple research reports to be submitted by candidates for grading:

1) Initial summary reports on three of your best investment ideas, at least one page per idea. Your written executive summary will be graded by value investing experts. You may get follow up questions via email or phone regarding your research work. A candidate risks being disqualified or barred if cheating or plagiarizing is discovered. All insights, findings or reports from other sources must be properly cited.

2) Yearly self-directed research reports based on a book or an intellectually challenging subject about investing, accounting or business management, etc. You can select that book(s) or the topic but it has to be approved by CSA Institute. A book too thin or too easy would not meet the level of difficulty requirement.

3) Yearly designated research thesis on an investment situation or subject chosen by CSA Institute.

4) Yearly research reports on the single best investment idea a candidate can identify during the year.

5) A Final CSA Dissertation upon graduation: This is project is as challenging as a PhD dissertation in the field of value investing. You have three years or more to complete the dissertation. The topic and outline must be pre-approved by CSA Institute. You must submit your dissertation before you complete the three year CSA Program. You may have to present and defend your dissertation in front of CSA candidates and expert examiners. All your reports and exam papers will be graded by CSA Institute. Upon paying a small administrative fee, you have the right to request grading comments and test records and put forth one appeal in front of the CSA Exam Committee.