I just got off the phone with CFA Institute as I had some questions regarding the exam that may or may not happen this year. I was extremely disappointed by the response I got.

First, I asked, "Is it planned for the exams to be given in large convention centers and hotel conference halls as usual?" Response was essentially: "Yes, you certainly won't be in a room with 10 other people." The problem: There may be limits on number of people who will be allowed to be in a "public gathering". If that limit is 50-100 or 200 people, forget it, they'll just cancel the exam.

Then I asked "if the total number of Level I, II, & III exam writers scheduled exceed local guidelines, but the level II & III numbers don't exceed that limit, would the exams proceed for the Level II & III candidates?" Response: "No, that would be unfair."

Finally, I asked "if the test were to happen today, how many states would allow it?" Response: "We don't know. We haven't yet booked the space yet." Problem: If that is the case, CFA is clearly in wait and see mode, which is putting the candidates at a clear disadvantage.

At that point, I lost my cool a bit and told her the entire situation was unfair. I mentioned that it was inevitable the process would be unfair and has not at all been fair for anyone. There are going to be cancellations and there will be people who are not able to take the test in December. That is not fair, but it is what it is. I'm not expecting CFAI to cancel the entire exam weekend around the world because I may not be able to take the exam. However, level II & III candidates should be given priority.

I will be getting a call from someone higher up over there and hope to report back what I find out. The bottom line is that this situation is going to be unfair no matter how it goes, but the most number of candidates as possible need to be given the opportunity to take the exam. If CFAI needs to rent out more space to make it happen according to local rules, or schedule more days, that's what needs to happen. I assure you, they can afford it with their nearly $400mm in revenue. They need to be doing whatever they possibly can so that candidates can take this exam and they're simply not if the conversation I had is any indication of what is going on over there.

I would like to know your thoughts and I'm happy to answer any questions. Would also like to hear your experiences on contacting CFAI about this.