CFA Level 1 Total Cost – Registration, Exam, Coaching Fees, etc.

We know that preparing for an exam can be quite exciting. But it’s important to understand all the costs involved so you can plan better and avoid surprises. This blog piece breaks down the total CFA Level 1 cost, which includes fees for registration, coaching, and study materials. Whether you study on your own or prefer more structured guidance, knowing these costs allows you to manage your budget effectively.

It’s important to note that if you plan to register for the CFA Level 1 exam in 2026, be aware that there is a new fee structure. Make sure to check the details relevant to your specific exam window so you can budget accordingly.

Also Read- CFA Level 1 – Exam Pattern, Pass Rates, Books, etc

1. Importance of Understanding the CFA Level 1 Cost

Why Cost Matters

Make no mistake, sitting for CFA Level 1 is a huge investment in your career. Understanding how they break down the cost helps in two ways:

It helps you plan your budget well to ensure you do not spend on something rooftop.

It allows you to select the best options available to you financially, be it a coaching center, study materials, or the cost of an exam itself.

Overall Expense Components

The CFA level 1 cost can be broken down into the following:

• Registration fees to be paid to CFA Institute: Enrollment and exam registration fees.
• Coaching Lessons: These lessons are not necessary but beneficial in guiding your learning.
• Materials: Official curriculum, 3rd-party guides, and mock exams
• Miscellaneous Expenses: Calculators, travel, internet, or rescheduling fees

2. CFA Level 1 Registration & Exam Fees

​Based on the latest information from the CFA Institute, effective April 29, 2025, for exams administered in February 2026 and beyond, there will be significant changes to the CFA Program’s fee structure. Here’s a detailed breakdown.

Enrollment (Program) Fee

The one-time enrollment fee is paid when you first register for the CFA Program.​

Exam Year	Enrollment Fee (USD)	Approx. INR
2025 and prior	350	29,750
2026 onward	0	0

​

Note: The elimination of the enrollment fee aims to improve access and affordability for candidates.

Exam Registration Fees

Candidates must pay a registration fee for each exam attempt, including retakes. The fee varies based on the registration window:​

A. CFA Level 1: 2025 Exam Cycle

Registration Window	Fee (USD)	Approx. INR
Early	990	84,150
Standard	1,290	1,09,650

 

​Note: The CFA Institute does not specify a “late” registration fee; fees increase after the early registration period ends. ​

B. CFA Level 1: 2026 Exam Cycle and Beyond

Registration Window	Fee (USD)	Approx. INR
Early	1,140	96,900
Standard	1,490	1,26,650

CFA Level I Exam Fee Comparison (2025 vs. 2026 Onward)

Fee Type	2025 and Prior	2026 Onward	Increase (USD)	Increase (INR) (Approx.)
Enrollment Fee	$350 (₹29,750)	$0 (₹0)	– $350	– ₹29,750
Early Registration	$990 (₹84,150)	$1,140 (₹96,900)	+ $150	+ ₹12,750
Standard/Late Registration	$1,290 (₹1,09,650)	$1,490 (₹1,26,650)	+ $200	+ ₹17,000

Key Takeaways

• Always register by the early-bird deadline to avoid paying more for late registration.

Plan your exam schedule carefully:

• You must register for each exam window.
• Then you must schedule your exam date and location separately. Failing to do so before the scheduling deadline may forfeit your exam fees.

To minimize overall cost:

• Register early.
• Pass each level on your first attempt, if possible.
• Apply for scholarships, if eligible.

Important to Note:

For Exams in 2024–2025

• USD 350 (approx. INR 29,750) is a one-time, non-refundable fee paid when you first register for the CFA Program (i.e., before Level 1).
• It covers your entire candidacy, meaning you do not pay it again for subsequent levels.

For Exams in 2026

• The CFA Institute has removed this USD 350 enrollment fee starting with the 2026 exam windows (February, May, August, and November).
• However, if you have already registered and paid the enrollment fee before 2026, there is no refund for prior payments.

Make sure you budget accordingly and take advantage of the early registration window to keep costs as low as possible.

Additional Costs

In addition to enrollment and exam registration fees, here are other possible costs to consider:

Study Materials: The CFA Institute releases all of its curricula electronically, but most candidates prefer printed, or notes from any third party. The cost of these can start from USD 300 and can go up to USD 800.

Review courses (optional coaching or prep courses can cost anywhere from USD 500 to USD 1,500, depending on the provider and the format (online or classroom).

Travel Expenses: If your exam center is not in close vicinity, you must factor in travel and hotel costs, which may vary from USD 100 to USD 500 depending on distance and place of stay.

Reschedule Fee: There is a USD 250 fee to reschedule your exam appointment within your exam window.

Scholarships

The CFA Institute provides several scholarships to eligible candidates, reducing the overall program cost:

Access Scholarship: It is offered by the CFA Institute, providing a significantly reduced registration fee of USD 250 for candidates demonstrating significant financial need, essentially waiving the enrollment fee for the CFA program; you can apply for this scholarship through the CFA Institute website.

Student scholarships: This scholarship is available to students around the world who are enrolled at an affiliated university and have not yet registered for their next exam. The enrollment fee is waived and exam registration is reduced to USD600 plus any applicable tax.

These dramatically reduce the financial burden on students, opening the doors to a new audience for the CFA program. So make sure you apply early, these scholarships have limited slots and each has specific deadlines.

Also Read- CFA Student Scholarship | Are You Eligible For It? | How To Apply For The CFA Student Scholarship?

3. Coaching & Preparation Course Costs

Live Classroom vs. Online Classes

1. Classroom Training

   • Costs: Classroom training fees in India range from ₹40,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on the provider.
   • Who It’s For: Ideal for candidates who prefer face-to-face interaction, personalized mentoring, and a structured environment.
   • Advantages:
     • Direct interaction with faculty.
     • Better discipline and routine.
   • Drawbacks:
     • Requires commuting, which may add to costs.
     • Fixed schedules may not suit working professionals.

2. Online Training

   • Costs: Online courses are more affordable, ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹65,000, based on the provider and course duration.
   • Who It’s For: Perfect for candidates with busy schedules or those who prefer studying at their own pace.
   • Advantages:
     • Flexible learning anytime, anywhere.
     • Usually more cost-effective.
   • Drawbacks:
     • Requires self-discipline and consistent effort.
     • Needs stable internet connectivity.

Self-Study vs. Coaching

1. Self-Study

   • Costs: The most economical option, relying on the official CFA curriculum and third-party study guides, saving up to ₹40,000–₹1,00,000.
   • Who It’s For: Candidates confident in managing their study schedules and understanding material independently.
   • Advantages:
     • Minimal expense.
     • Full control over your pace and approach.
   • Drawbacks:
     • Limited support for doubts.
     • Lack of structured guidance may lead to inefficiencies.

2. Coaching

   • Costs: Coaching adds to your expenses but provides structured learning and expert support. Fees range from ₹22,000 to ₹1,00,000 depending on the provider and format.
   • Who It’s For: Ideal for candidates who prefer structured preparation, doubt-clearing sessions, and better exam strategies.
   • Advantages:
     • Access to expert faculty.
     • Personalized mentoring and doubt-clearing sessions.
   • Drawbacks:
     • Higher costs compared to self-study.

Trade-Off: Self-study is cost-effective but requires high discipline and resourcefulness. Coaching, though more expensive, can significantly improve preparation efficiency and outcomes.

Material & Add-On Services

Coaching programs often include additional services, such as:

• Access to expert faculty for resolving doubts.
• Practice question banks and mock exams to simulate the actual exam environment.
• Personalized mentoring to address weak areas.

Cost Impact: These added features can increase the total fee by ₹10,000–₹20,000 but often enhance your preparation significantly.

Offline Coaching

IMS Proschool

• Offerings: IMS Proschool provides both classroom and online options tailored for CFA Level 1 aspirants. Their courses include:
  • Comprehensive study materials.
  • Doubt-clearing sessions.
  • Mock exams and performance tracking.
• Cost: Fees range from ₹35,000 to ₹65,000, depending on the format and location.
• Who It’s For: Candidates looking for structured learning with personalized mentorship and localized support.

QuintEdge

• Offerings: QuintEdge is known for its affordable CFA coaching, focusing on essential study materials and regular practice tests.
• Cost: CFA Level I Live Online Classes: ₹32,000. It includes live online classes with unlimited doubt-solving, interactive webinars, and 100% question coverage.
• Who It’s For: Ideal for self-motivated candidates who want affordable yet effective preparation.

EduPristine

• Offerings: EduPristine offers extensive classroom training with access to expert faculty, practice questions, and case studies. Their programs are designed to provide in-depth conceptual understanding.
• Cost: Approximately ₹1,00,000, reflecting the premium nature of their courses.
• Who It’s For: Candidates willing to invest in a premium coaching experience with a focus on practical learning.

Unacademy

• Offerings: Unacademy provides live online classes and recorded sessions, allowing candidates to learn at their own pace. Features include:
  • Doubt-clearing sessions with top educators.
  • Mock tests and topic-wise quizzes.
• Cost: Subscription plans range from ₹736 to ₹1,389 per month, making it a flexible and affordable choice.
• Who It’s For: Ideal for students and working professionals who prefer flexible, low-cost options.

Udemy

• Offerings: Udemy offers on-demand video courses with lifetime access. These courses are typically shorter and focus on specific areas of the CFA syllabus.
• Cost: Courses are priced around ₹1,000, often with discounts available.
• Who It’s For: Best for candidates seeking quick, affordable resources to complement their self-study.

Coursera

• Offerings: Coursera provides video-based learning from reputed institutions, along with quizzes and assignments to reinforce learning.
• Cost: Similar to Udemy, courses start at ₹1,000, making it another cost-effective option.
• Who It’s For: Ideal for candidates who prefer learning through structured video courses from renowned instructors.

 

Comparison: Popular Coaching Providers

Coaching Provider	Cost (INR)	Best For
IMS Proschool – Offline	₹35,000–₹65,000	Structured learning with personalized mentorship.
QuintEdge	₹32,000 (approx.)	Budget-conscious candidates who need basic preparation.
EduPristine	₹1,00,000 (approx.)	Premium courses with a practical learning focus.
Unacademy	₹736–₹1,389/month	Flexible, low-cost online learning for busy professionals.
Udemy	₹1,000 (approx.)	Affordable, on-demand video courses for quick learning.
Coursera	₹1,000 (approx.)	Structured online courses from reputed institutions.

 

Please visit their official websites or contact the respective institute directly for the most up-to-date fee information.

How to Choose the Right Coaching Provider

• Budget: Assess how much you’re willing to spend. Providers like Udemy and QuintEdge are excellent for candidates on a tight budget, while EduPristine caters to those seeking premium options.
• Learning Style:
  • Classroom learners may prefer IMS Proschool or EduPristine.
  • Online learners should consider Unacademy, Udemy, or Coursera.
• Flexibility: For working professionals, Unacademy and Udemy offer flexible schedules.
• Features: Check if the provider includes mock exams, doubt-clearing sessions, and personalized support.

By choosing the right coaching provider, you can prepare effectively for CFA Level 1 while staying within your budget. Let me know if you’d like further refinements!

Also Read- CFA Online Vs Offline Classes | What’s Best For Acing The CFA In One Go

4. Study Materials & Additional Expenses

Study materials are critical for passing the CFA Level 1 exam. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Official CFA Institute Curriculum

• The eBook version of the curriculum is included in your registration fee.
• If you prefer a physical book, you’ll need to pay an additional $299.

Third-Party Study Guides

Many candidates supplement the official curriculum with third-party guides for better clarity and practice. Popular providers include:

• Kaplan Schweser: Costs range from $300 to $800, depending on the package.
• Wiley: Offers study plans and resources for around $400 to $700.
• Mark Meldrum: Focused on video lectures, costing $200 to $500.

Mock Exams & Practice Questions

• Extra mock exams and question banks from third-party providers cost between $50 and $150.
• Many coaching programs include these, so check before purchasing separately.

Travel & Accommodation Costs

If your exam center isn’t nearby, consider these additional expenses:

• Travel: Depending on the distance, this could cost anywhere from $50 to $300 (₹4,250 to ₹25,500 approx.)
• Accommodation: Budget around $100 to $200 for a short stay if required.

 

Also Read- CFA Level 1 Study Plan | For College Students As Well As Working Professionals 

5. Hidden Costs to Consider

Some costs may not be immediately obvious but are essential:

1. Financial Calculators: You must use either the Texas Instruments BA II Plus ($40 or ₹3,400 approx.) or the HP 12C ($70 or ₹5,950 approx.)
2. Retake Fees: If you don’t pass on the first attempt, you’ll need to pay the exam registration fee again.
3. Internet & Tech Costs: Reliable internet is essential for online classes and accessing study resources.

6. Financial Planning & Budgeting Tips

Early Registration Strategy

• Register early to save up to around $300 on fees.
• Early registration also provides more time for preparation, reducing last-minute stress.

Scholarships & Discounts

• The CFA Institute offers need-based and merit-based scholarships, reducing fees to as low as $250.
• Check if your employer offers financial support or reimbursements.

Cost-Effective Study Options

• Use free online resources like AnalystForum or 300 Hours.
• Buy second-hand study materials to save costs.
• Join local CFA study groups for collaborative learning and sharing resources.

 

Also Read- How Difficult is the CFA Program? | Can an Average Student Pass the CFA Exams Easily?

7. IMS Proschool CFA Course

IMS Proschool offers comprehensive training for CFA Level 1 aspirants, balancing affordability with quality.

Program Overview

• Structured programs designed to simplify CFA Level 1 preparation.

Learning Modes

• Flexible options include classroom training or live online sessions to suit your schedule.

Study Resources & Support

• Expert faculty, detailed notes, over 2,000 practice questions, and multiple mock exams.
• Personalized mentoring to address individual doubts.

Why Choose IMS Proschool?

• 900+ hours of training.
• Affordable fees compared to other providers.
• Proven strategies for passing CFA exams on the first attempt.
• Placement opportunity after Level 1.
• Exam pass commitment that emphasizes dedicated support, revision classes, and performance tracking to maximize success rates.

For more details, visit

8. Conclusion

The CFA Level 1 exam is an investment in your future. Planning your budget carefully and understanding all costs can make your journey smoother. From early registration to choosing the right study materials, every decision matters. Whether you opt for self-study or coaching, ensure you have a solid plan to succeed.

FAQs

Is the official CFA Level 1 ebook included in the exam fee?

Yes, the CFA Level 1 exam fee covers the curriculum in an e-book format. You can also buy a physical copy of the curriculum, though.

Access the CFA Program digital curriculum for candidates in the Learning Ecosystem.

The Learning Ecosystem consists of:

• Readings
• Chapter summaries
• Practice questions
• Mock exams
• Flashcards

This curriculum is available online for free, but you may also buy a printed version of the curriculum once you register.

Study materials can also be purchased from other providers like: Kaplan Schweser and We Mentor Me Careers.

What are typical coaching fees for CFA Level 1?

In India, the CFA Level 1 coaching fee varies from ₹10,000 to ₹80,000 based on the mode of coaching (online/offline). Cost-effective: In general, online coaching is less expensive compared to offline coaching.

These are some determinants of CFA Level 1 coaching cost

• The type of coaching: Online coaching is usually less than offline coaching.
• Study materials­: Study materials are usually not included in coaching fees, and can raise additional costs.
• Revision classes and mock tests: There could be an additional charge for revision classes and mock tests.

Can I pass CFA Level 1 without joining a coaching institute?

The majority of candidates choose to study for the CFA exams through a Course or other Private Tutoring. Even though you can take these exams without taking classes as long as you are committed and able to study on your own, most people would prefer to have some sort of exposure to other students and instructors.

What is the total cost of CFA Level 1?

The cost of CFA Level I as a whole for 2025–2026 includes:

Enrollment Fee:

• 2025: $350 (₹29,750) (applies only to new candidates).
• 2026 Onward: $0 (₹0).

 

Registration Fee:

• Early: $990 (2025) / $1,140 (2026) (₹84,150 / ₹96,900).
• Standard: $1,290 (2025) / $1,490 (2026) (₹1,09,650 / ₹1,26,650).

 

Study Materials:

• $0 – $1,450 (₹0 – ₹1,23,250) (if candidates use third-party providers and opt for packages).

 

CFA Level I Total Estimated Cost: (registration + study materials)

• 2025 (Early Registration): $1,340 – $2,790 (₹1,13,900 – ₹2,37,150).
• 2025 (Standard Registration): $1,640 – $2,790 (₹1,39,400 – ₹2,37,150).
• 2026 (Early Registration): $1,140 – $2,590 (₹96,900 – ₹2,20,150).
• 2026 (Standard Registration): $1,490 – $2,940 (₹1,26,650 – ₹2,49,900).

 

Please Note: All the USD conversion to INR amounts are approximate in this blog; the CFA Institute may make adjustments, and exact costs can vary slightly by exam window. For INR conversions, an exchange rate of 1 USD = 85 INR has been used as an example. Always check the official ​CFA Institute website and the current exchange rate website for the most accurate figures.