CFA Level 1 Exam Schedule 2025: Key Dates and Deadline
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Charterbuddyy.com
The CFA Level 1 exam is the first step in earning the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification. With a rigorous syllabus covering topics such as Ethics and Professional Standards, Quantitative Methods, Financial Statement Analysis, Economics, and Portfolio Management, it requires meticulous planning and preparation. Understanding the CFA Level 1 exam schedule is crucial for effective CFA exam preparation and time management.
In this blog, we will break down the CFA Level 1 exam schedule for 2025, including registration deadlines, early registration benefits, scheduling windows, and key rescheduling dates. If you're preparing for the CFA Level 1 exam, this guide will help you stay ahead and maximize your CFA study strategy.
CFA Level 1 Exam Windows in 2025
The CFA Level 1 exam is offered four times a year in February, May, August, and November. This flexibility allows candidates to plan their CFA Level 1 study plan based on their personal schedules and commitments.
CFA Level 1 Exam Dates and Deadlines for 2025
| Exam Window | Registration & Scheduling Opens | Early Registration Deadline | Regular Registration Deadline | Exam Scheduling Deadline | Exam Rescheduling Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 14-20, 2025 | August 8, 2024 | October 16, 2024 | February 6, 2025 | February 11, 2025 | May 3, 2025 |
| August 20-26, 2025 | November 6, 2024 | January 29, 2025 | May 6, 2025 | May 13, 2025 | August 9, 2025 |
| November 12-18, 2025 | February 12, 2025 | April 9, 2025 | August 5, 2025 | August 12, 2025 | November 1, 2025 |
Key Points to Keep in Mind
While registering for the Level 1 exam is a simple process, there are a few things that candidates should keep in mind. These are:
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Plan Early and Register on Time
- Early registration not only secures your CFA Level 1 exam slot but also saves money.
- The early registration period is usually open for two months after registration opens, so act fast.
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Stick to Your Study Plan
- CFA Level 1 covers ten broad subjects, including Ethics, Quantitative Methods (Quants), Financial Statement Analysis (FSA), Economics, Corporate Issuers, Equity Investments, Fixed Income, Derivatives, Alternative Investments, and Portfolio Management.
- A well-structured CFA Level 1 study plan is essential for tackling the extensive syllabus.
- Check out our blog to know more about CFA Level 1 subjects.
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Use Exam Deferrals Only When Necessary
- The CFA Institute allows deferrals, but keep in mind that candidates who defer tend to perform below average in their next attempt.
- Deferring your exam means extending your study period, which can impact your momentum and preparation effectiveness.
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Optimize Time Management
- Candidates should allocate at least 300+ hours of study time per exam attempt.
- Focus on high-weightage topics such as Ethics and Professional Standards, Financial Statement Analysis, and Fixed Income.
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Understand the CFA Level 1 Difficulty and Pass Rate
- The CFA Level 1 exam difficult is moderate to high, with a historical pass rate of around 40%.
- To improve your chances, incorporate active recall, practice exams, and mock tests into your CFA study strategy.
Final Thoughts
The CFA Level 1 exam is a significant milestone in your journeytowards the CFA charter. With multiple exam windows available in 2025, candidates have the flexibility to choose a date that best fits their schedule.
However, early planning, disciplined study habits, and strategic time management are key to success.
Stay ahead by registering on time, following a structured CFA Level 1 study plan, and making the most of CFA Level 1 tips to enhance your preparation.
For more CFA-related insights and CFA exam preparation tips, visit Charterbuddyy, your go-to resource for finance certifications!