#7. If you feel overwhelmed, study with breaks. – Never give up, but do give yourself permission to take a breather. When absorbing vast amounts of information, as with the very overwhelming CFA exam materials, sometimes the brain just needs a momentary reset.
How much review time for CFA Level 1?
How much do I have to study to pass the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level I exam? – The CFA Institute recommends studying more than 300 hours for the CFA Level I exam, and successful test takers report devoting around 323 hours.
How hard is the CFA Level 1 actually?
Just How Hard Is The CFA Exam? – The Chartered Financial Analyst credential is one of the most demanding exams when it comes to preparation and study time required. The average pass rate for the CFA Level 1 is only 41%, For Level 2, you’re looking at a buzzsaw passage rate of 45%,
- And Level 3 is not much easier at 52%,
- Overall, less than 11% of all candidates pass all three levels of the exam and earn their charter.
- This low overall passage rate can be partially attributable to the time commitment required to make it through all three levels,
- The study requirements are such that many people simply lack the actual time needed to adequately study the material,
Another factor that frequently adds to the challenge is the time between the exams. 
If you receive a ” Did Not Pass ” score on your attempt, you cannot retest for a minimum of six months, This alone can be an incredibly challenging factor, as a lot can transpire during the time before next test window. This prolonged time period is enough to discourage many people from taking the exam in the first place.
Is 2 months enough for CFA Level 1?
CFA Level 1: A quick overview, plus some Q&A – 
According to CFA Institute, it takes a typical candidate an average of:
4+ years to complete the CFA program; 300+ hours of studying per Level 6 months of preparation for each exam (i.e. about 11.5 hours study per week assuming 300 hours)
The CFA Level 1 exam is an introduction to 10 broad topics of investment analysis and ethics, building a solid foundation of your finance knowledge for Level 2 and 3. CFA exams are now computer-based, and CFA Level 1 exams are held 4 times a year in February, May, August and November.
What is the hardest section of CFA Level 1?
Level 1 Hardest Topics – Fixed Income, Derivatives, and Financial Reporting Analysis have always been considered one of the hardest topics for the Level 1 exam. The reason is that these topics demand a lot of reading time and extensive calculations.
- Financial Statement Analysis – The most challenging aspect of Financial Reporting and Analysis is likely not the content itself but rather the abundance of information. To begin with, there are numerous differences and similarities in learning. They are treated differently depending on whether they are reported under IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) or US GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles), adding to complexity in topic.
- Fixed Income – Many readings in FSA are purely theory-based and are filled with terms. Readings like the bond valuation are complex and lengthy and full of complex formulas.
- Derivatives – The most challenging task will most likely be understanding how options work. There are numerous options, each with unique characteristics. These options are called contingent claims because the long will exercise the option and require the short to complete the transaction only if it is profitable for the long.
Can you pass CFA 1 by guessing?
What does this mean for you? – If you need to correctly answer 135 questions to pass the exam, you don’t have to know the answer to 135 questions. That should give you confidence. It’s OK to guess on some questions. A passing score is within your grasp! : Strategies for Passing the CFA Level I Exam
Which level of CFA is hardest?
Level 3 – The Level 3 CFA Exam contains two types of questions: the morning session consists of eight to eleven “constructed response” short-answer, open-ended questions based on a fact pattern. In the afternoon session, candidates face 10 item sets with multiple-choice questions constructed and presented similarly to those in Level 2.
- The constructed response questions test candidates’ understanding of the topics and ability to explain the reasoning.
- It is a good idea to thoroughly understand the theories and topics associated with the Level 3 CFA Exam to help implement problem-solving skills when studying for the exam.
- Something else to note is that the exam assesses portfolio management skills and a candidate’s ability to solve problems that might arise in real-world applications.
Many CFA charterholders consider the Level 3 CFA Exam the most difficult because of the time and thought needed to answer the constructed responses successfully. While the typical Level 3 CFA Exam pass rates are the highest of the CFA Exams, only around 56% of CFA candidates pass the exam.
Is it worth doing CFA Level 1 only?
5) CFA charterholders receive 53% more salary on average, even after taking into account work experience – 
In fact, there are some monetary upsides to taking the CFA exams. And you don’t even have to wait until you become a CFA charterholder. In our latest CFA salary data analysis, we have removed the “work experience / seniority effect” on average total compensation, so that we can better capture the true effect of CFA Program on average pay.
CFA candidates who passed Level 2 saw an increase of 34% in total compensation; CFA candidates who passed Level 3 or Charterholders earned 53% more than those who had yet to pass CFA Level 1 exams. There’s only significant 28% increase in total compensation for CFA candidates who just pass Level 1 in 2022, a big jump from 2021’s data of just 16%. This could mean that the payback for going through the CFA program comes earlier.
Additionally, for more in-depth research and comparison of other qualifications’ impact on salary (e.g. MBA, FRM, CAIA etc), check out our CFA salary research article,
Is the CFA worth it in 2023?
If you’re aiming to work in roles such as financial analysts, portfolio managers, or investment bankers, the CFA designation can be a valuable asset. However, if you want to pursue careers in other areas of finance, an alternative certification or qualification may be more relevant.
Is 6 months enough for CFA Level 1?
Approximate Question Allocation –
As we have told our candidates for many years, “There are NO shortcuts.” With that said, where should you start? The key is having a plan. Before you pick up a book or practice a few questions, you need to develop a personalized study plan. For the majority of candidates, we recommend a 6-month study plan.
- This would break down to about 12 hours per week or two hours per day for 6 days per week.
- Skipping one day each week would allow you to relax and prepare for the next week’s activities.
- We understand that each candidate starts the program with a different knowledge base.
- This study plan assumes that you are new to the curriculum and will need to dedicate ample time across each topic area.
However, some candidates may be able to reduce their study time in one or more topic areas depending on their expertise. For example, a candidate with a strong accounting background may be able to shorten the amount of time dedicated to Financial Statement Analysis,
Which subject is easiest in CFA Level 1?
CFA Syllabus – Time Management and Topics to Focus – Now that we have covered the weights let us jump into the scope of the syllabus, difficulty level and the areas of focus.
Ethical and Professional Standards
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Ethical and Professional Standards | 1 | Ethics and Trust in the Investment Profession |
| 2 | Ethics code & Standards | |
| 3 | Guidance for Standards I–VII | |
| 4 | Introduction to Global Investment Performance Standards | |
| 5 | The GIPS Standards |
This subject is aimed to promote professional ethics and has a significant weight age in the exam. About 36 of the total questions out of the total 240 are based on this module. Even though this subject has the highest weighing it is common that students start studying for it one week before the exams or read at the beginning of the preparation and then revise it a day before the exam.
Quantitative methods
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Quantitative Methods | 6 | The Time Value of Money |
| 7 | Discounted Cash Flow Applications | |
| 8 | Statistical Concepts and Market Returns | |
| 9 | Probability Concepts | |
| 10 | Common Probability Distributions | |
| 11 | Sampling and Estimation | |
| 12 | Hypothesis Testing | |
| 13 | Technical Analysis |
This module is maths oriented and the main areas of this module are statistics, hypothesis testing, probability, time value of money. This module helps you in being efficient with the calculator and formulas. Please note that a few readings from this module are also covered in other modules.
Financial Reporting and Analysis
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Financial Reporting and Analysis | 21 | Financial Statement Analysis: An Introduction |
| 22 | Financial Reporting Standards | |
| 23 | Understanding Income Statements | |
| 24 | Understanding Balance Sheets | |
| 25 | Understanding Cash Flow Statements | |
| 26 | Financial Analysis Techniques | |
| 27 | Inventories | |
| 28 | Long-Lived Assets | |
| 29 | Income Taxes | |
| 30 | Non-Current (Long-Term) Liabilities | |
| 31 | Financial Reporting Quality | |
| 32 | Financial Statement Analysis: Applications |
Financial Reporting and Analysis (FRA) is super important! And 36 of the 240 questions are based on FRA. As you can see from the weights above no other subject apart from ethics is tested so meticulously and is considered to be one of the toughest subjects in the syllabus.
Corporate Finance
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Corporate Finance | 33 | Corporate Governance and ESG: An Introduction |
| 34 | Capital Budgeting | |
| 35 | Cost of Capital | |
| 36 | Measures of Leverage | |
| 37 | Working Capital Management |
Corporate Finance is one of the easiest topics of the Level one exam this is because this subject is very logical and intuitive and the formulas are easy. The scope is also quite limited and includes concepts related to NPV, IRR, corporate governance and capital management. To Know About CFA Scholarships
Portfolio Management
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Portfolio Management | 38 | Portfolio Management: An Overview |
| 39/40 | Portfolio Risk and Return: Part I and II | |
| 41 | Basics of Portfolio Planning and Construction | |
| 42 | Risk Management: An Introduction | |
| 43 | FinTech in Investment Management |
As discussed earlier, Portfolio management and Quantitative methods are inter-related and if you have studied Quant module before starting this module then understanding Portfolio management will be a cakewalk. This module is a mix of theory and quantitative topics. Only 15 of the total questions are based on this module.
Equity Investments
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Equity Investments | 44 | Market Organization and Structure |
| 45 | Security Market Indices | |
| 46 | Market Efficiency | |
| 47 | Overview of Equity Securities | |
| 48 | Introduction to Industry and Company Analysis | |
| 49 | Equity Valuation: Concepts and Basic Tools |
There are a lot of CFA candidates who are already investing and trading and to do this as they follow companies listed publically. Having practical experience makes understanding this module very smooth. Please note that this module is very theoretical and tests your memory skills.
Fixed Income
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Fixed Income | 50 | Fixed-Income Securities: Defining Elements |
| 51 | Fixed-Income Markets: Issuance, Trading, and Funding | |
| 52 | Introduction to Fixed-IncomeValuation | |
| 53 | Introduction to Asset-Backed Securities | |
| 54 | Understanding Fixed-Income Risk and Return | |
| 55 | Fundamentals of Credit Analysis |
Fixed Income is considered to be the toughest module after FRA. ~26 questions on a fixed income are tested in the exam making it an important module. However, fixed income has the toughest theory as well as the toughest maths and this module could be a challenge if you have never dealt with the bond market.
Derivatives
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Derivatives | 56 | Derivative Markets and Instruments |
| 57 | Basics of Derivative Pricing and Valuation |
Is it possible that a module with such a low rating can be considered as the third toughest subject of the Level 1 exam? Well, yes and that’s the case for Derivatives with many of the students. The derivatives that this module covers are forwards, futures, swaps, and options.
Alternative Investments
| Topic | Reading | Reading Name |
| Alternative Investments | 58 | Introduction to Alternative Investments |
This section covers all the forms of investment not covered in the other modules. Questions are mainly conceptual; this section has a small weight age and can easily be mastered with reasonable efforts. Tip – You should focus on spending about 30% – 35% of your time on the above four modules.
What is the lowest score to pass CFA Level 1?
Passing Scores Candidates must get a minimum passing score (MPS) of 70% on the multiple-choice questions on the CFA Level I exam, a minimum score of 65% to 70% on the multiple-choice questions on the CFA Level II exam, and a minimum passing score (MPS) of 60% on the multiple-choice questions on the CFA Level III exam.
How many times can you take CFA Level 1?
CFA Institute About CFA Institute Governance CFA Institute Policies CFA Exam Eligibility Policy
Candidates are permitted to take the exam a maximum of two times per calendar year (when applicable), but not in consecutive windows or windows that are six months or less apart. Candidates will have a total of six maximum attempts per exam level. Partially completed exams (e.g., completion of only one session) count towards the maximum attempts.
Are Schweser notes enough for CFA?
Benefits of Using Schweser Study Materials – Schweser study materials offer several benefits for candidates preparing for the CFA Level 1 exam:
- Condensed and Easy to Read: SchweserNotes are a condensed version of the CFA Institute curriculum, making them easier to read and understand.
- Practice Questions: Schweser study materials include practice questions and examples, which help candidates prepare for the exam and improve their understanding of the material.
- Time-Saving: SchweserNotes are designed to save candidates time by focusing on the most important concepts and topics.
- Comprehensive: Schweser study materials cover all the key topics and concepts that candidates need to know for the exam.
Can I pass CFA in 1 month?
Is 1,2,3,4, or 5 Months Long Enough To Study For Level I? – No, studying for any CFA exam in less than 6 months will not give you enough time to adequately prepare unless you have a relevant background in the curriculum. According to CFA Institute, candidates study on average 348 hours for the Level I exam, 364 hours for the Level II exam, and 365 hours for the Level III exam.
Why is CFA Level 1 so hard?
CFA Level 2 Easy? No, Not Really. And Level 3 Is Not Much Better – Although I rarely hear anyone mention that the CFA Level 2 is easy, CFA Level 3 is no cake-walk either. If you have the strength and discipline to get yourself over the hump for Level 2, then beware the climb for CFA Level 3.
CFA Level 2 is the last of the CFA Institute’s exams that are entirely multiple choice. The CFA Level 3 exam is half short answer, and half multiple choice. The long answer section is notoriously difficult, and what often leads people to fail the exam. Although the CFA Institute does not formally break out the results of your exam by section (written vs multiple choice), I have heard plenty of feedback to know that most people find/believe that a failing grade is largely due to the written portion.
One key reason for its difficulty is that there is no room for “fluff” and no related answers to help jog your memory. You either know it, or you don’t. With multiple choice, you have a chance to at least recognize the correct answer, but with the written answers you have to know the answer.
What makes the CFA so hard?
The CFA exams are difficult, taking about 4-6 hours each. Candidates must complete 180 questions during that time in the Level I exam, which is not an easy task. To be successful, candidates need more than just intelligence and stamina. They also need the right tools at their disposal.
Is CFA Level 2 much harder than Level 1?
#3 – Target 350 hours of study time, at minimum – 
Level 2 is much harder than Level 1 simply because it is more intense – the depth and detail Level 2 goes into (and tests on) is greater, as it is more application-focused. More importantly, candidates need to get used to answering the vignette-style multiple choice questions that is new in Level 2 (see tip #4).
hone your new exam technique (see tip #7); learn vast amounts of new material; balance work and other life commitments (as this will be put to the test).
How long does it take to review CFA application?
What to Expect After You Apply – The steps below guide you through the application review process and answer frequently asked questions related to estimated timelines, application statuses, and prorated membership fees. After you submit your application, the review process may take up to 10 business days for regular membership applications.
- Your membership application will also be reviewed by the society to which you applied.
- Society review times vary but may take up to 30 calendar days for regular member applications.
- Once all application reviews are completed, you will receive an email letting you know your application review is complete.
Help us keep in touch by ensuring that your contact information is up to date in your profile. We will contact you by email or phone with any questions about your application. Use these definitions to understand the activity status of your application:
Not Completed: You started an application but have not submitted it. Awaiting References: Your application was submitted, but we are awaiting responses from your references. Once we receive your references, we will review your application. Under Review: Your application is being evaluated by CFA Institute and the society you applied to. Approved: Your application for membership was approved. Membership may need to be activated by paying dues and/or filing the Professional Conduct Statement. Not Approved: CFA Institute completed the review of your application, but membership requirements have not been met. Withdrawn: Your application was withdrawn from review.
You can make changes to your application before you submit it for review. Access your application from the Membership tile on the My Account dashboard. You cannot make changes to your application once it has been submitted. If you need to edit your application after it has been submitted, you can withdraw it from review.
- When you withdraw your application, only the completed references will remain with your record and do not need to be resubmitted.
- You will need to re-enter contact information for any reference that did not complete the process before your application was withdrawn.
- We will notify you by email with details on how to join CFA Institute.
After you receive the approval email, log in to your CFA Institute account and
Pay your membership dues Each year, you must pay your annual dues to renew your membership. Your first dues payment will vary depending on when you first join.
Read and file a Professional Conduct Statement and Membership Agreement Annually, you must complete a Professional Conduct Statement to disclose any potential violations of the Code and Standards, You must also sign your Membership Agreement.
The Standards of Practice exam is an open-book exam based on the CFA Institute Standards of Practice handbook. It is a requirement for regular membership for those who have not
passed Level I of the CFA Program, passed Level II of the CIPM Program, earned an RBA designation, or earned an RMFI designation.
If you do not meet any of the above criteria, you will be prompted to take the exam after your membership application has been approved. The Standards of Practice exam may also be a requirement for Society Affiliate membership. Requirements vary by society.
Is 2 months enough for CFA Level 1 reddit?
Yes, clearing CFA in 2 months with your background is possible. Take printout of all formulae sheet and stick it on wall/cupboard look at it and memorize. Make a study plan for next 2 months and keep last 20 days for mocks and revision.
Do CFA Level 1 questions repeat?
4. Take Old Exams – When you are really done with your studying, take as many old exams as you can. Many questions/topics repeat themselves. Also, when you go over old exams and see a really “out there” question (there’s at least one in every exam, in my experience), it will prepare you a bit for a surprise question on the real exam.
Just breathe and think to yourself, “This is the tough one—everyone will think this is tough. I’ll do my best, but I’m not going to get bogged down and waste all my time.” But make sure you don’t even peek at an old exam until you’re ready to take it. When I failed, I would take the practice tests untimed and look up the answers without trying to do them on my own first.
When I passed, I timed myself, feeling the pressure and the discomfort of not being sure. Get used to feeling uncomfortable, not knowing exactly the right answer, and knowing when to move on.