If you have just started a career in finance, appearing for the CFA level 1 exam is crucial. However, a study plan is indispensable to perform well in this exam. Efficient time management is essential to be a disciplined college student or working professional.
This allows students to have study periods between their classes or for professionals with a job to work on preserving the flexibility of their schedule. We can also help you create a plan that works for your schedule.
CFA Level 1 Study Plan for College Students
Best Study Plan for CFA Level 1
The CFA Institute suggests around 300 hours of study. Here is a quick example of what the study plan could look like:
- Start Date: The first column indicates that your start must be at least 6 months before the day you plan on taking your exam. That should leave you plenty of opportunities to practise.
- Plan study hours: Keep a time-to-the-hour ratio and divide into topics based on importance, as well as difficulty (easy if everything’s easy/ easier first before beginning with more complex).
- Milestones: Separate the syllabus into targets as weekly or monthly. It would be best for you to track how far along the process you make with this, while also helping keep yourself motivated.
- Recap: Dedicate the final month to reviewing everything and solving a series of practice tests. This will help you diagnose the measure of your understanding of the subject and which areas need attention.
Managing study and academics.
CFA Level 1 is manageable if you are a student — it will take work, but planning and execution ensure success. It is realistic for a college student to create this balance in their life and veer towards the good path.
- Create A Study Strategy: Set your CFA study blocks at the same time each week (just as if it were a class).
- Task Prioritization: Keep a planner on which you will have written all your academic deadlines & CFA study targets, and in this ask yourself: “What are the tasks that need to be done today?” or “In a week?” Focus first on the urgent and important ones because you do not want to be left rushing when your project timeline is near.
- Free Time: Use that time in the gaps between classes or some quiet break for a focused CFA study.
- Be Organised: Save your time by synchronising the study material and notes.
- Seek Help: Ask your professors or advisors if there is anything they can do to accommodate for additional workload and adjust due dates accordingly.
Textbooks, E-books and Revision Materials:
Since there is a great deal to study for in the CFA Level I exam, it can be daunting. To help you plan comfortably we have crafted an easy guideline, targeting all of the categories that fall under this section.
Textbooks and Study Guides
They delve deeper into the questions that appear in exams and explain important concepts.
Pros:
- Provides comprehensive knowledge of what to anticipate for the examination
- Professionally and academically prepared by finance experts
Cons:
- Heavy reading materials
- Some might struggle to read thicker books.
TIP: Refer to the CFA Level I syllabus— this should guide you on which textbooks will be helpful for your preparation and refer to complete study material that covers something in coherence with topics defined under each reading.
Online Courses and Tutorials
They are popular among students who cannot afford to attend regular classes and tutorials. The coursework is designed around interactive, self-paced features such as videos and quizzes.
Pros:
- Quizzes and test questions so you can practise what you’ve learned.
Cons:
- Every online course is not created equally.
TIP: Choose an online course that has reading, videos and practice questions as well as mock exams. Choose the one aimed at CFA Level 1.
CFA Institute Study Materials
When you register for the CFA exam, from where do I get my study materials is also not a question to ask because digital study resources come straight from the CFA Institute. These e-books are included in the registration price.
Pros:
- Digital — No extra fee is required.
- Preparatory material is as per the new test pattern.
Cons:
- Others may prefer physical books since they are easier to read, highlight and take notes from.
All for an extra price, of course—if you’re really old school and want a print edition.
Proschool’s Study Resources
Resources provided with CFA Level 1 Classes by Proschool:
- Practice Tests (Computer-based Testing): 5 mock exams and >2000 practice questions to ensure you are ready for the test.
- Professional Coaches: They coach you for your CFA exams.
- Study Plan Prep — Personalized 6 6-month study plan and additional 3-month plan across all CFA level 1 subjects.
- M0 Introductory Module: A little basic course that helps you assess your readiness for the finance career path.
- Key Topics: Batch of 75+ classes (online as well in-class) on all important CFA level I subjects for 6 months.
Pros:
- You can take part in Multiple Choice Questions & mock tests.
- Expert help and study plan
If you want to get certified and further your career in finance, then choose one that will work for YOU and start a study path today.
Suggested weekly study hours and key milestones.
You can break it down into weekly study hours and important milestones.
Weekly Study Hours:
- Prepare (50% of Study Time): Spend this time reading and watching tutorials.
- Practice (50% of preparation): The remainder should be used for practice questions. Make sure you understand the explanations behind the MCQs.
- Test Yourself: Start taking mock exams and Timed practice (You need to check yourself on how well you are prepared by the fourth-month mark.)
Key Milestones:
- First 1–2 Months: You should focus on learning the basics, and creating a strong base.
- Next 2-3 Months: Solve MCQs and revise difficult topics by going through the syllabus.
- Last 1-2 Months: Start taking mock exams under exam conditions to pinpoint areas of improvement and continue working on them.
Leveraging resources and study groups.
Learning more effectively, finding high-quality resources, and opting for a study group (if that fits your schedule) can push you further when preparing for CFA Level 1.
Using Resources:
- Textbooks and Study Guides – You should always commence by consulting the books by the CFA Institute. Since they are updated often, these should leave no stone unturned in you missing out on any topic. If there are topics you struggle with, supplement these via other books or guides.
- Online Courses and Tutorials – Take online courses to learn.OPEN_NEXT Most of these courses have videos and lots of practice questions, as well as review quizzes to help you solidify your understanding.
- Practise Questions – Use different types of practice questions with explanations for each question. These will allow you to quiz yourself and get a feel for the types of questions on the exam.
- Sample exams – Practice sample exam papers under time pressure, and practise what the test situation will feel like This will increase your time management and peep into the areas where you need to practise more.
Joining Study Groups:
- Locate a Study Group – Find study groups within your college, at work or over the internet. Being a part of the group gives you motivation and can turn studying into fun.
- Study Groups – Join study groups to talk through tricky topics, share resources and give advice Additionally, you can also strengthen your own understanding of topics by explaining ideas to others.
- Accountability partner – This is the best way for a study group to stay on track. You are motivated by frequent meetings and discussions, which also help you stay ahead in your studies.
- Finally, Seek Help – In a situation where anyone in your study group is struggling with any topic — they are more than happy to offer help and provide a fresh perspective on the area you find confusing.
CFA Level 1 Study Plan for Working Professionals
Balancing work, study, and personal life.
Balancing work, studying and personal life can get really tricky but with a good study plan, you can manage all of it. Some students have very busy schedules, especially those who work as well.
- Plan Your Studies: Make a calendar with dedicated study times every week and adhere to your studying routine.
- Prioritise Tasks: Learn modules you need to focus more on and balance them with work.
- Weekends: Try to keep the study sessions longer and also keep a day for resting.
- Stay organised: Keep all study materials together, and track your study pace. Adjust accordingly.
- Stay Healthy: Sleep well, eat properly and exercise to remain focused and stress-free.
- Get Support: Talk to your employer about balance and options, as well as ask family and friends for additional support.
Recommended resources tailored for busy professionals.
When you are a working professional and trying to pass the CFA Level 1 exam, an efficient study tool can go a long way. Guide to Best Resources are as follows:
- Online Courses and Tutorials: Learn through virtual lessons with the ability to pause, stop or rewind anything you have missed. Go for weekly topics and milestones.
- Mobile apps: Get practice questions, flashcards and notes out of your phone for use during breaks. Take advantage of progress tracking and goal study features.
- Listen to Audiobooks and Podcasts: Use the commutes or workouts to listen to audiobooks in order not only to remember things learned from books but also to learn something at work.
- Practice Questions and Mock Exams: Take practice questions under timed conditions in the form of mock exams Focus on areas you want to work on
- CFA Institute Study Materials: Free with registration are CFA Institute’s e-books and curriculum guides or buy the printed versions if you like reading on paper.
- Online Study Groups and Forums: Interact with other candidates for fresh perspectives and inspiration.
Efficient study techniques and time allocation.
- Make room for Study Time – build gaps around your work hours in such a way that you can accommodate them either just before the start of office hours or during lunch breaks to get the time.
- Task Priority – Make sure you are focusing on those higher-order and more important things. Spend extra time on difficult sections and less time on those that come easy.
- Micro-Learning – Focus on bite-sized study sessions of say, 20 to 30 minutes (maximum) because time is scarce and you have to make the most out of what little there is.
- Clear Goals – Establish measurable, attainable goals before each study session to remain on task and gauge improvement.
- Use Weekends – Block off bigger chunks of time intervals for more intense learning, to make up lost ground.
- Practise Targeted – Use practice problems and mocks to more broadly identify weaknesses.
- Stay Abreast – Organise your study material well and prepare a properly structured plan to read deeply in conjunction with the easy way.
- Take Advantage of Downtime – Listen to podcasts or audiobooks during your commute, lunch break and any other downtime period.
Seeking support from employers and using work-related resources.
- Speak with your Employer – Seek flexi-time or study leave and make the management aware of your CFA goals to get potential support.
- Leverage Work/Resources – Apply CFA principles at work, and use company financial databases and reports (if allowed).
- Use Professional Networks – You will likely have people you know who also took CFA exams so keep a lookout for advice on that.
- Make the Most of Free Time at Work – Study during your downtime at work and research if your employer offers discounted study material.
Proschool Experts’ Recommendations For CFA Level 1 Study Plan
Proschool experts suggest that one should start earlier and plan to complete 300 – 350 hours of studies for the CFA Level I exam. Spend more time focused on the fundamentals before moving onto anything too advanced.
Importance of Practice Exams:
You should not miss out on practice exams for your CFA Level 1 prep. They acclimatise you to the exam pattern, expose your strong and weak points & help in improving confidence. Proschool offers 5 mock exams and more than 2000 practice questions to help you recreate the actual test environment.
Tips for Coping with Stress and Staying on Task
Stress Management and Focus are Key to Exam Success. Proschool recommends:
- Regular Breaks: Hear us out on this one; taking short breaks during study sessions can prevent burnout, and this can happen to anyone.
- Mindfulness Techniques: Perform relaxation practices, and meditation to control stress and keep in focus.
With Proschool’s comprehensive support and these resources, you’ll be well-prepared to excel in the CFA Level 1 exam and advance your finance career.
Why Choose IMS Proschool for Your CFA Level 1 Preparation?
If you’re aiming to excel in the CFA Level 1 exam and jumpstart your finance career, IMS Proschool offers a top-tier CFA preparation course designed to meet your needs.
Comprehensive Preparation
IMS Proschool provides an extensive curriculum that aligns with the latest CFA updates. Our course includes:
- 10 Mock Exams and 2000+ Practice Questions: Fully prepare for the exam with a wealth of practice materials and mock tests that simulate real exam conditions.
- Expert Faculty: Learn from seasoned professionals with extensive industry experience and a passion for teaching.
- Personalised Study Plan: Receive a tailored 6-month study plan, plus an additional 3 months for revision, covering all 10 subjects comprehensively.
Career-Focused Support
Beyond exam preparation, IMS Proschool is committed to your career success:
- Direct Career Pathways: We help you secure rewarding job opportunities immediately after obtaining your Level 1 certification.
- Profile Building and Job Support: Benefit from resume building, aptitude training, and access to over 100 curated job opportunities with easy application processes.
Flexible Learning Options
Choose from various learning modes to fit your schedule:
- Foundational Module (M0): Start with an introductory module that covers core finance concepts and helps you assess your interest in a finance career.
- Core Syllabus: Over 75 lectures spread across 6 months, available both online and in the classroom, covering all essential CFA Level 1 topics.
Additional Benefits
- Unlimited Doubt-Solving Sessions: If needed, access extra classroom sessions and doubt-solving support at no additional cost.
- 1:1 Mentorship: Get personalised guidance from mentors who are CFA Level 1 candidates and industry experts.
- CFA Institute Study Materials: Use official e-books and curriculum guides included with your registration, with the option to purchase printed versions if preferred.
FAQs
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Which Are The Top Resources For CFA Level 1 Prep?
Some of the best resources are online courses, mobile apps for learning, CFA Institute study materials and practice questions or you can also participate in a few different study groups.
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How many hours do I need to study for CFA Level 1 per week?
The target should be closer to 10-15 hours per week to cover all of the material.
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Is it possible to crack CFA Level 1, if you are working full-time?
Provided you can manage your time well, and that you have a schedule in place to study with due preparation for cracking the CFA exams while still on the job.
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What to study for CFA Level 1?
Ethics and Financial Reporting Analysis Income Tax of India Company Law Cost Management Accounts Capital Markets Device to Buy or Sell Securities
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Can 120 days be enough for CFA Level I?
Not in 120 days; it is too short for a well-strategic preparation. According to the CFA Institute, candidates spend an average of 348 hours studying for Level 1 — which generally takes at least four months to do well.
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Is it possible to pass CFA Level 1 without coaching?
Self-study is of course possible but coaching can be a great support system.
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How can Proschool experts help with CFA Level 1 preparation?
Proschool experts offer personalised study plans, and practice exams to help you excel in your preparation and guidance comes for free.
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