GARP RAI Exam April 2026: Registration Deadlines, Fees

GARP RAI Exam April 2026: Registration Deadlines, Fees

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the landscape of risk management, the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) Risk and AI Certificate has emerged as a crucial credential for professionals seeking to demonstrate expertise at the intersection of these two critical domains. With early registration for the April 2026 RAI Exam now open, candidates have a valuable opportunity to secure their spot while maximizing cost savings through strategic planning.

Understanding the RAI Certificate Program

The Risk and AI Certificate represents GARP's response to the growing need for risk professionals who can navigate the complex challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence. Developed by world-leading AI experts and senior risk practitioners, the program provides comprehensive coverage of AI tools and techniques, including generative AI, AI risks and risk factors, responsible and ethical AI, and governance frameworks for deploying AI effectively within organizations.

The examination itself consists of 80 equally weighted multiple-choice questions that candidates must complete within a four-hour window. While some questions stand alone, groups of three to four questions may draw from common scenarios, requiring candidates to apply their knowledge to realistic business situations. The exam is offered twice annually, during April and October testing windows, with appointments available at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide or through online proctoring.

GARP RAI Exam April 2026 : Registration Deadlines

Event	Date
Early Registration Opens	December 1, 2025
Early Registration Deadline	January 31, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
Standard Registration Opens	February 1, 2026
Exam Window	April 4-12, 2026

This timeline is particularly significant because exam appointments are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Candidates who delay registration risk finding limited availability at their preferred testing locations or time slots, especially in major metropolitan areas where demand tends to be highest. GARP explicitly advises early registration to allow for a comfortable study pace, with the organization estimating that average preparation time falls in the range of 100-130 hours.

Comprehensive Fee Structure

The cost structure for the April 2026 RAI Exam varies based on three factors: registration timing, membership status, and whether candidates hold other GARP certifications. Understanding these distinctions can result in significant savings.

April 2026 RAI Exam Pricing

Candidate Category	Early Registration (By Jan 31)	Standard Registration (From Feb 1)	Savings
FRM/SCR/ERP Holder	$525	$625	$100
Individual GARP Member	$550	$650	$100
Non-Member	$650	$750	$100

Complimentary Membership Benefits

GARP offers a six-month complimentary individual membership to RAI candidates who have not previously received complimentary membership from any GARP program. This benefit is automatically applied during the registration process for eligible candidates and provides access to premium content, discounts on products and services, networking opportunities through professional chapters, and preferential rates for GARP events and conferences.

For candidates without existing GARP membership, this complimentary period represents additional value beyond the direct cost savings of early registration. The networking opportunities alone can prove valuable for career advancement, as GARP members include risk professionals from leading financial institutions, regulatory bodies, and consulting firms worldwide.

Retake Policy and Considerations

Candidates who do not pass the exam, fail to schedule it, or schedule but do not sit for the examination can register for the next administration window at a reduced retake fee of $350. This one-time reduced rate applies only to the immediately following exam window. Candidates who do not register for that next available window must pay all applicable fees for any subsequent attempt.

If curriculum updates occur between attempts, GARP provides the updated materials through GARP Learning at no additional cost. This policy ensures that retaking candidates have access to the most current information without additional financial burden.

Conclusion

The April 2026 RAI Exam represents a significant opportunity for risk professionals to validate their expertise in artificial intelligence risk management. With early registration deadlines approaching on January 31, 2026, candidates who act now can secure $100 in savings while ensuring access to preferred exam schedules and maximum preparation time. The comprehensive curriculum, combined with the credential's growing recognition in the industry, positions the RAI Certificate as a valuable investment in professional development during an era of rapid technological transformation in risk management.

As organizations increasingly deploy AI systems across their operations, the demand for professionals who understand both the tremendous potential and inherent risks of these technologies will continue to grow. By registering early and committing to thorough preparation, candidates position themselves to join this critical community of practice at the forefront of AI risk management.