In India, the Chartered Accountant (CA) course is generally considered harder and more challenging to complete than the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program. While both are rigorous, CA has a much lower pass rate ( 15 % − 20 % 1 5 % − 2 0 % ) and a broader, more exhaustive syllabus (tax, audit, law) compared to CFA's focus on investment management and higher ( 40 % − 50 % 4 0 % − 5 0 % ) pass rates.
The CA program is far more thorough and rigorous since it includes a wide variety of disciplines such as accounting, taxation, law, auditing, and finance. The CFA program, on the other hand, is highly specialized, focusing on investment analysis, portfolio management, and ethical standards.
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 is neither difficult nor easy. Most of the candidates prepare for CFA along with their job/ higher education or any other commitment which occupies majority of their day. And this is what makes CFA relatively more challenging. Since it requires continuous dedication and hardwork along with your day job.
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%.
Both CA and CFA are esteemed qualifications with distinct focuses and benefits. While CA is a perfect fit for those interested in accounting and auditing in India, CFA is meant for finance enthusiasts with a global perspective.
Absolutely. With its global recognition, high demand, and strong salary prospects, the CFA remains one of the most valuable finance credentials in 2025.
Richest Chartered Accountants in India. 1. Kumar Mangalam Birla (Net Worth: $19 billion) 2.
The latest CFA pass rates are: 43% for Level 1 (Nov 2025) 42% for Level 2 (Nov 2025) 50% for Level 3 (Aug 2025)
The CFA Institute lets you register for another sitting as early as the next cycle. However, be aware that you must pay the exam fees again. Yes, if you fail CFA Level 1, you do have to pay again. That's why taking the time to prepare better this time matters.
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.
However, let's put things into perspective: the CFA Level 1 exam is not a math test. The CFA Institute has made it clear that calculations will account for no more than 30% of the questions on the exam. To put it in numbers, that's a maximum of 54 out of the 180 questions.
Three months can be enough time, but typically it takes a candidate at least six months to prepare for the CFA Level 2 exam.
Fixed income is generally regarded as one of the most difficult CFA subjects in CFA studies. Its difficulty lies in grasping bond features, pricing models, yield computation, and sensitivity to changes in interest rates.
Nandini Agrawal (@ca_nandini19) • Instagram photos and videos.
Nischal Narayanam. Nischal Narayanam is an Indian child prodigy and India's youngest chartered accountant. He completed his post-graduation in mathematics & commerce at the age of 19 from Osmania University, Hyderabad.
Will AI replace CFA professionals in finance jobs? No. While AI optimises efficiency, it does not replace intelligent decision-making, client engagement, or ethics oversight performed by CFAs.
Banking, asset management, financial consulting, and fintech sectors hire CFAS actively. Companies like JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, and EY value the CFA charter.
During your level 1 CFA exam, you will be tested on:
CFA® Exam Result Validity and Attempt Policy
CFA® exam results do not expire. Candidates are not required to re-enroll annually in the CFA® Program, and there is no time limit to complete all three levels of the program. Beginning with the 2021 CFA® exams, each level may be taken up to twice per calendar year.
Many professionals are now pursuing CPA after CA, especially those looking for international exposure and higher roles in MNCs. This combination is highly valued in firms like Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG, and global finance divisions.