The CFA exam is not a math test, but it is highly quantitative, with calculations making up roughly 20-30% of Level 1 and about 40% of Level 2. It requires proficiency in basic high school algebra, probability, and statistics, rather than advanced calculus, and relies heavily on mastering the financial calculator (BA II Plus).
Math-Heavy Sections: Quantitative methods, financial reporting, and corporate finance all require a solid understanding of math and statistics. These sections can be particularly difficult for candidates without a strong background in math.
Most of the math is basic, but if you are going to take math anyways, statistics would be most helpful. The rest is basic algebra.
Most students aim for 120 to 126 correct answers, which is around 67% to 70%, as this aligns with the general CFA Level 1 pass criteria. Understanding the concept of the CFA Level 1 passing marks helps candidates set realistic targets. Knowing how many questions to get right gives clear goals.
CFA Level 1 passing scores 2012-2025 (estimated)
We estimated that CFA Level 1's MPS ranged from 56%-74% from 2012-2025, with an 13 year average of 65%. The latest estimated MPS for CFA Level 1 is estimated to be around 68%.
Is CFA tougher than CA? A: The CFA and CA (Chartered Accountant) qualifications have different focuses and challenges. While both are demanding, many find CA to be more rigorous due to its extensive practical training and exams.
Average Age of CFA Candidates
Although many candidates are in their late twenties or early thirties, the Program has a wide age range. Many begin at 35, 40, or even 50. Some of the most thoughtful, determined candidates are the ones who start later. Experience is not a burden.
The 10th and 90th percentiles were removed from the report because we have added scale scores. Scale scores add more precision to your results interpretation. The 10th and 90th percentiles only provide a comparison of your result against other candidates in the same administration.
Yes, you can do CFA after 12th commerce with or without maths. However, basic mathematical calculations and workings knowledge will help deal with certain parts of the CFA curriculum.
The answers depend on your career goals. An MBA and CFA can complement each other, so earning both is worth consideration. An MBA program provides a broader education than the CFA program. The CFA focuses more on detailed topics like investment management.
In spite of all odds, average students pass CFA exams regularly by: Employing study schedules with an emphasis on key subjects. Focusing on ethics and key notions, which have high exam weighting. Utilising quality preparation materials and practice exams.
Three months can be enough time, but typically it takes a candidate at least six months to prepare for the CFA Level 2 exam.
Absolutely. With its global recognition, high demand, and strong salary prospects, the CFA remains one of the most valuable finance credentials in 2025.
If you have earned a certificate from CFA Institute such as the Sustainable Investing Certificate or Investment Foundations, add it to the certifications or education section of your resume or CV. You may also include the date your certification was issued.
The CFA may be down, but it's not out, financial advisors say. A total of 116,727 people sat for all three levels of the CFA exam in the first eight months of 2024, down 2,735 from the same period in 2023, according to the CFA Institute.
Yes, the answer to Is CFA easy for CA students is that many CA students find CFA easier. It is due to the rigidity of the CA exams, as it is considered the toughest of all the accounting and finance exams to crack.
It encompasses four major aspects: time horizon, diversification, emotional discipline, and contribution escalation. These numbers—7, 5, 3, and 1—serve as memorable markers to guide decisions and expectations. The “7” in the rule underscores the importance of holding equity SIP investments for at least seven years.
All Big 4 accountancy firms – Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG – are active recruiters of ACCA-affiliated accountants. Choice often depends on your interest area: audit, consulting, tax, or advisory.
How Is the CPA Exam Scored? The Discipline sections (BAR, ISC, TCP) were introduced under the updated (2024) CPA Exam structure. Each section is scored on a scale of 0–99, with a score of 75 required to pass.