CMT Level I
Chartered Market Technician (CMT) Level I
More study resources
Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
The Chartered Market Technician (CMT) credential is awarded by the CMT Association, which describes itself as the leading global credentialing body for technical analysis. The CMT Program is a rigorous three-level curriculum that provides market professionals with comprehensive training in technical analysis of financial markets, leading to the Chartered Market Technician® designation. It is aimed at practitioners who evaluate markets through statistical patterns in price, volume, and momentum to forecast potential market behavior and inform investment decisions. The Association reports 2,500+ active CMT charterholders, representation in 137 countries, 36 chapters globally, and 35,000 financial analysts who have attended its events. Level I is the first of the three levels; the source text does not enumerate Level I topics, item counts, time limits, fees, or passing scores, so candidates should verify those details directly with the CMT Association. Preparation typically combines the official curriculum with practice on chart reading, indicator interpretation, and risk-management concepts, and the Association offers support such as CMT Curriculum Office Hours; for example, a session with Louis Spector, CMT is advertised for candidates preparing for the December 2026 examination. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the CMT Association.
What you'll study
About CMT Level I preparation
What is the CMT Level I exam format?
The available source text does not state the Level I format, item count, or time limit. The CMT Program is described as a three-level curriculum, but Level I parameters are not enumerated. Check the CMT Association's CMT Program pages or your candidate handbook for the current format before planning your sitting.
How difficult is CMT Level I?
The Association calls the CMT Program a rigorous three-level curriculum covering technical analysis of financial markets. Level I is the foundation, so expect broad coverage rather than deep specialization. Difficulty is not quantified in the source; plan for substantial study across price, volume, momentum, and risk concepts.
Can I retake CMT Level I if I fail?
The source text does not describe a retake policy, including any waiting period or fee. Retake rules can change between administrations, so confirm them with the CMT Association directly rather than relying on secondhand accounts.
When is the CMT exam offered?
The source references preparation for the December 2026 CMT examination and invites candidates to CMT Curriculum Office Hours. It does not list all administration dates. Treat December 2026 as the cycle named in the source and verify the full schedule and registration deadlines with the Association.
What score do I need to pass CMT Level I?
No passing score is stated in the available source. The CMT Association sets and may revise its standard, so consult official candidate materials for the current requirement. Do not assume a fixed percentage from older study guides.
In what order should I study for CMT Level I?
Start with the definition the Association gives: technical analysis evaluates markets through statistical patterns in price movement, volume, and momentum. Build a base in those three areas, then add chart construction and risk management, which the Association names as a core curriculum piece. Follow the official curriculum outline for topic order.
What are common failure modes on CMT Level I?
The source does not publish failure statistics or causes. A practical risk is studying indicators in isolation without connecting them to price, volume, and momentum as the Association frames the discipline. Another is relying on outdated exam parameters; verify format and timing officially.
How much does the CMT Level I exam cost?
The source text states no fee for Level I or any level. Fees can differ by region, membership status, and registration window, so obtain the current amount from the CMT Association before budgeting.
Is this page affiliated with the CMT Association?
No. This is an independent study resource. The CMT Association is the credentialing body that awards the Chartered Market Technician designation; this page does not claim affiliation with, sponsorship by, or endorsement from the Association.