CFA Level 1 Cost in Mumbai (2025–2026): The Ultimate Fees Guide for Aspirants

What’s the real CFA Level 1 cost in Mumbai? CFA level 1 cost typically ranges from 90,000-1,25,000 depending on when you are registering (early bird or standard registration). This fee does not include training or other expenses those are optional and additional.

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the CFA Level 1 cost in Mumbai, including:

• The updated CFA fee structure for 2025 and 2026
• Coaching fees across top Mumbai CFA institutes
• Extra expenses you may not have budgeted for
• Money-saving tips, scholarship options, and smart strategies to cut costs

Updated CFA Exam Cost in Mumbai (2025 vs 2026) – Full Breakdown

If you’re preparing for the CFA exams in Mumbai, here’s a reality check — the entire CFA journey spans three levels, and starting in 2026, the fee structure is changing.

CFA Program Fees (2025 vs 2026) – Level-Wise in USD & INR

Fee Type	Level I	Level II	Level III
2025 Enrollment Fee	$350 / ₹29,400	–	–
2025 Early Registration	$990 / ₹83,200	$990 / ₹83,200	$1,090 / ₹91,600
2025 Standard Reg.	$1,290 / ₹1,08,400	$1,290 / ₹1,08,400	$1,390 / ₹1,16,800
2026 Enrollment Fee	₹0	–	–
2026 Early Registration	$1,140 / ₹95,800	$1,140 / ₹95,800	$1,240 / ₹1,04,200
2026 Standard Reg.	$1,490 / ₹1,25,200	$1,490 / ₹1,25,200	$1,590 / ₹1,33,600
Rescheduling Fee	$250 / ₹21,000	$250 / ₹21,000	$250 / ₹21,000

 

(INR values are estimates at ₹84 = $1. Actual charges may vary slightly based on exchange rates and bank/forex charges.)

Key Takeaways for CFA Aspirants in Mumbai:

• Enrollment Fee Removed: From 2026, the $350 (~₹29,400) enrollment fee is gone.
• Registration Cost Goes Up: Each level becomes ₹12K–₹25K more expensive.
• Net Effect: Overall CFA Level 1 cost in Mumbai may be higher in 2026 unless you register early.

 

Tip: If you’re preparing in 2025, register early. You could complete the entire CFA program under the older, cheaper fee model — and save over ₹50,000 across levels.

Total CFA Cost in Mumbai – What You’ll Actually Pay

If you’re based in Mumbai and planning your CFA journey, you’re probably wondering — “How much will the entire CFA Level 1 cost me, really?”

Let’s clear this up: the official CFA Institute fees are only part of the total cost. When you factor in coaching, books, mock tests, internet, and even commuting, the overall budget changes — especially in a city like Mumbai.

What About the Total CFA Exam Fees for All Levels?

On average, Mumbai candidates should expect to spend between ₹3 – ₹4 lakhs on the total CFA exam fees alone — covering Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3.

This includes:

• Early or standard registration fees
• Rescheduling costs
• Plus minor price differences due to USD-INR fluctuations

And remember — this does not include coaching, travel, or other prep costs.

So if you’re planning to complete the full CFA program from Mumbai, it’s wise to budget at least ₹5–6 lakhs total if you plan to go all the way.

Estimated CFA Level 1 Cost in Mumbai – All Components

Expense Head	Estimated Cost (INR)
CFA Level 1 Exam Fee (Early Bird)	₹83,000 – ₹95,000
CFA Level 1 Exam Fee (Standard)	₹1,08,000 – ₹1,25,000
Coaching Classes (optional)	₹35,000 – ₹70,000
Study Material (Books, QBank, etc.)	₹5,000 – ₹15,000
Internet/Data Access (online prep)	₹1,000 – ₹2,500/month
Mock Tests & Practice Exams	₹2,000 – ₹7,000 (varies by provider)
Travel/Commuting (local trains, etc.)	₹1,000 – ₹3,000/month (Mumbai average)
Hostel/PG (if from outside Mumbai)	₹8,000 – ₹20,000/month (optional)

Total CFA Level 1 Cost in Mumbai (2025–2026)

Budget Scenario	Approx. Total (INR)
Low Budget (self-study)	₹90,000 – ₹1.2 Lakhs
Mid-Range (coaching + extras)	₹1.4 – ₹1.8 Lakhs
Premium (all resources + travel/living)	₹2.2 – ₹2.8 Lakhs

 

If you’ve found yourself asking this, you’re not alone. For most CFA aspirants in Mumbai, understanding the total cost — not just the exam fee, but coaching, materials, and extras — is the biggest concern before enrolling.

And that makes sense. Mumbai is a hotspot for finance careers — home to institutions like the BSE, NSE, HDFC, and hundreds of investment firms. But with opportunity also comes competition and, yes, confusion over how much it truly costs to get started with CFA.

Coaching Fees of Top CFA Institutes in Mumbai

Top CFA Coaching Providers in Mumbai – Level 1 Comparison

1. IMS Proschool

• Mode: Classroom + Online
• Fees: ₹35,000 – ₹65,000
• Highlights:
  • CFA Charterholder Faculty
  • Mock Test Support & Doubt Solving
  • Pass Commitment
  • EMI Options Available

Still confused about CFA Level 1 cost? Talk to our experts today — we’ve got all the answers!

2. The WallStreet School

• Mode: Classroom + Online
• Fees: ₹55,000 – ₹65,000
• Highlights:
  • Interview Prep & Resume Guidance
  • Hybrid/Weekend Batch Options
  • Strong Placement Network

3. FinTree

• Mode: Online + Recorded
• Fees: ₹35,000 – ₹45,000
• Highlights:
  • Strong Self-Paced Learning Platform
  • Active Peer Community
  • Dedicated CFA Test Series

4. Sanjay Saraf Educational Institute

• Mode: Live Online + Video Lectures
• Fees: ₹50,000 – ₹60,000
• Highlights:
  • Deep Conceptual Coverage
  • Industry-Oriented Teaching
  • Extensive Lecture Hours

5. Quintedge

• Mode: Online + Live Interactive Classes
• Fees: ₹45,000 – ₹58,000
• Highlights:
  • Real-time Doubt Solving
  • Regular Mock Tests with Analytics
  • Finance-Focused Teaching with Case Studies
  • Study Planner & Mentorship Support

But not all offer the same support — always check if you get mock test series, personal mentoring, or placement help.

If you’re unsure whether to go for full coaching, many providers offer free demo classes — attend 1 or 2 before paying.

Also, several institutes provide EMI options for CFA coaching in Mumbai — making it lighter on your monthly budget.

Hidden Fees You Might Not Expect:

• Some coaching institutes charge separately for placement support or interview training.
• Doubt-solving sessions may be limited unless you’re on a premium plan.
• Mock exams are not always bundled — check before you enroll.

 

Also Read- Top 10 CFA Course in Mumbai

6 Smart Ways to Cut CFA Level 1 Expenses in Mumbai

1. Register Early for the CFA Exam

CFA Institute offers up to $300 discount (~₹25,000) if you register in the early window.

Plan your attempt date early and block your calendar before you hit the late fee window.

2. Apply for CFA Scholarships

The CFA Institute offers scholarships like:

• Access Scholarship
• Women’s Scholarship
• Student Scholarship
• Professor Scholarship

These can cut exam fees by 50% or covers the majority of your exam fees.

3. Join Coaching with Combo Deals

Many Mumbai-based CFA institutes offer bundled packages:

• Classes + Mocks + LMS Access
• Some include books or placement help

4. Use EMI & No-Cost Installments

Some Institutes allow you to split your coaching fees into monthly EMIs, often at zero interest.

This helps working professionals in Mumbai who want to upskill without breaking their budget.

5. Explore Free & Budget-Friendly Resources

While CFA Institute provides its own curriculum, you can supplement your prep for free using:

• Reddit CFA forums (many from India)
• Schweser/FinTree public video series
• YouTube summaries of LOS (Learning Outcome Statements)

Even paid tools like FinQuiz or UWorld offer free trials or limited-time access.

6. Avoid Costly Mistakes

• Don’t reschedule your exam last minute — it’ll cost you ₹21,000.
• Attend demo classes before paying to avoid switching institutes midway.
• Don’t overbuy materials — stick to what you actually use.

 

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

What’s New in CFA 2026? Why Are Fees Increasing?

If you’re preparing for the CFA exam in Mumbai, you might have noticed the buzz — CFA Level 1 cost is rising in 2026.

But what’s actually changing? And is it worth waiting?

1. No Enrollment Fee

Earlier, new candidates had to pay a one-time enrollment fee of $350 (~₹29,000). This has been eliminated in 2026.

Savings of ₹29K for first-time CFA Level 1 aspirants.

2. Higher Registration Fees

While the enrollment fee is gone, the exam registration fees have increased across all levels.

CFA Level	2025 Early	2026 Early	Difference (INR)
Level 1	$990	$1,140	+₹12,600
Level 2	$990	$1,140	+₹12,600
Level 3	$1,090	$1,240	+₹12,600

3. Skill Modules & Practical Labs Introduced

From 2026, CFA candidates must complete “Practical Skills Modules” (PSMs) after each level:

• Python, Financial Modeling, Excel skills, etc.
• These are graded modules, not optional extras.

These changes aim to make CFA grads more job-ready, especially in places like Mumbai’s investment banks, consulting firms, and fintech startups.

4. Specialized Career Pathways

Level III candidates in 2026 can choose between:

• Portfolio Management
• Private Wealth Management
• Private Markets

This lets you align the CFA journey with your career goals — a first for the program.

Should You Register Now or Wait?

If you register in 2025…	If you wait till 2026…
Lower exam registration fees	No enrollment fee, but higher exam fees
No graded skill modules	Mandatory modules to complete
Save ₹40K–₹50K if you finish by 2026	Gain career-focused specialization & tools
Familiar structure	Newer curriculum and testing approach

 

If you’re serious about a long-term career in finance or investment roles in Mumbai, CFA is one of the highest-ROI programs you can pursue.

Why IMS Proschool Is a Smart CFA Coaching Option in Mumbai

If you’re looking for affordable, trusted CFA coaching in Mumbai, IMS Proschool consistently ranks among the top choices — especially for Level 1 aspirants.

Key Highlights:

• Modes: Offline (Andheri, Borivali, Thane, Navi Mumbai) or Online Live
• Faculty: Taught by CFA Charterholders
• Support: Doubt-solving, mock tests, LMS access
• Affordability: Starts at just ₹35,000 with EMI options
• Placement Help: placement opportunity right after level 1, Resume building, mock interview, Job portal access, guaranteed interviews, Assistance in internships and analyst roles
• Proschool’s “Pass Commitment” ensures you get continued support if you don’t clear in the first attempt — a unique feature most Mumbai aspirants value.

Explore IMS Proschool’s Mumbai CFA Program

Conclusion

If you’re planning to take the CFA Level 1 exam in Mumbai, your biggest edge isn’t just studying hard — it’s budgeting smart. From knowing the official CFA fees, to selecting the right coaching institute, and even using scholarships or early-bird pricing, every rupee saved adds up.

While the CFA Level 1 cost in Mumbai can range from ₹90,000 to ₹2.8 lakhs depending on your registration time, coaching, study materials,etc. The long-term return is strong — especially if you want to break into Mumbai’s fast-moving finance sector.

So register early, pick a coaching institute that suits your style, and stay consistent.

With smart planning, you can crack CFA without breaking the bank — and open doors to a global finance career right from Mumbai.

FAQs

What are the costs of CFA Level 1?

The CFA Level 1 cost (including exam fees and basic prep) typically ranges from ₹90,000 to ₹1.8 lakhs, depending on your registration window and coaching needs.

Is CFA Level 1 alone worth it?

Yes, clearing CFA Level 1 can help you land entry-level finance roles in Mumbai like research analyst or risk associate — especially if you’re a fresher or switching careers.

Is CFA Level 1 expensive?

It can be — especially with late registration or premium coaching. But smart planning, early registration, and Mumbai-based scholarships can reduce the overall expense significantly.

What is the CFA annual fee?

There’s no annual fee for CFA students. You only pay for each exam level as you register. The earlier “enrollment fee” was removed starting 2026.

How much is CFA Level 1 salary?

In Mumbai, CFA Level 1 pass-outs earn anywhere from ₹4 to ₹6 LPA in entry-level finance jobs. Salaries grow higher after Level 2 and Level 3.

Is CFA equal to Masters?

No — the CFA is a professional certification, not an academic degree. But in Mumbai’s finance industry, it’s often valued more than an MBA for investment and research roles.

Is CFA harder than CA?

Both are tough but different. CFA focuses on global finance and investments, while CA is focused on Indian laws and accounting. Many Mumbai finance professionals say CFA is more analytical, but CA is broader.