Every 2026 FRM exam window, registration deadline, and scheduling cutoff in one place. Plan your timeline and avoid missed deadlines.
GARP offers three exam windows in 2026: May, August, and November. The May and November windows have separate date ranges for Part 1 and Part 2, while the August window offers both parts on the same dates. All exams are computer-based and administered at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.
Within each window, you choose a specific date and time when scheduling your appointment. Popular testing centers fill up fast, so schedule as early as the scheduling window opens.
| Window | Part 1 Dates | Part 2 Dates | Scheduling Window |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 2026 | May 9–May 15 | May 16–May 19 | Dec 1, 2025 – Apr 25 |
| August 2026 | Aug 7–Aug 8 (Part 1 & Part 2) | Mar 1 – Jul 25 | |
| November 2026 | Nov 14–Nov 20 | Nov 21–Nov 25 | May 1 – Oct 24 |
GARP offers early and standard registration tiers for the August and November windows. The May window only has a standard registration period. Early registration saves you $200 per part — see the FRM registration fees breakdown for full cost details.
| Window | Early Registration | Standard Registration | Exam Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 2026 | N/A | Feb 1 – Mar 31 | $800 only |
| August 2026 | Mar 1 – Apr 30 | May 1 – Jun 30 | $600 / $800 |
| November 2026 | May 1 – Jul 31 | Aug 1 – Sep 30 | $600 / $800 |
Registration is handled entirely through GARP's website. The process takes about 10–15 minutes. Here's the step-by-step walkthrough:
Go to garp.org and create a free account. You'll need your full legal name (as it appears on your passport or government ID), email address, and employer information.
Choose Part 1, Part 2, or both (August only). Select your preferred exam window — May, August, or November 2026. First-time candidates will also pay the one-time $400 enrollment fee at this stage.
Pay the exam fee via credit card. Early registration costs $600 per part; standard registration costs $800. GARP does not offer payment plans or installments.
Once registered with GARP, you'll receive instructions to schedule your specific exam date and time through Pearson VUE. Choose a testing center near you and select an available slot within the exam window.
You'll receive confirmation emails from both GARP and Pearson VUE. Save these — you'll need your appointment details and valid ID on exam day. Begin studying immediately if you haven't already.
The difference between early and standard registration is purely financial — $200 per part. There is no difference in exam content, testing center access, or scheduling priority. Early registrants simply pay less.
Over both Part 1 and Part 2, early registration saves you $400 total. That's nearly enough to cover a full year of third-party study materials. There is no strategic downside to registering early if you've committed to an exam window.
The May window is an exception — it only offers standard registration at $800 per part. If saving money is a priority, target the August or November windows where early pricing at $600 per part is available. See the full FRM registration fees breakdown for cost scenarios.
Available for August and November windows only. Register during the early window to save $200 per part. Same exam, same experience, lower price.
Available for all three windows. This is the default pricing if you miss the early deadline or are registering for the May window.
If you've registered for an exam but can't sit on your scheduled date, GARP allows you to defer to the next available window for a $250 fee. Deferrals must be submitted before the scheduling deadline for your current window.
Key rules to keep in mind:
The best window depends on your study timeline, budget, and whether you plan to take both parts in the same year. Here's a framework for deciding:
Ideal if you began studying in late 2025 or early 2026 and want to get Part 1 done quickly. Downside: no early registration discount — you'll pay $800 per part. If you pass, you can target November for Part 2.
The only window where you can sit for Part 1 and Part 2 on the same dates. If you're aiming to complete the FRM in one shot, this is your window. Early registration is available at $600 per part.
The latest window gives you the most time to prepare. Early registration is available at $600 per part. This is the most popular window for candidates who want a full study cycle or are taking Part 2 after passing Part 1 in May.
Now that you know the 2026 exam schedule, lock in your target date and start building real exam readiness with PrepAscend's adaptive practice engine.
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