CFA mock exams are frequently designed to be slightly more challenging or on par with the actual exam to ensure thorough preparation, with some providers intentionally using trickier wording and complex calculations. While CFA Institute official mocks are considered the most accurate, third-party mocks can vary in difficulty, often acting as a rigorous training tool to build confidence.
Difficulty Level
Some mock exams feel harder than the real CFA exam, incorporating trickier wording and more complex calculations. Others may oversimplify concepts, leading to a false sense of confidence.
Lots of you might have heard that 'GCSE mocks are harder than the real thing. ' But in reality, the answer is no! Mock tests are based on past papers from your relevant exam board and are set by your school teachers.
Mock tests do sometimes feel more difficult than the actual exam, and there are solid reasons for this. First, there's the psychological factor. When you take a mock test at home or in a classroom setting, your focus is entirely on performing well. This concentrated pressure can make the test feel more intense.
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.
To score above 650, you need to answer around 162–165 questions correctly out of 180, assuming minimal or no negative marking. That breaks down to about 90+ correct in Biology, 40+ in Chemistry, and 35–40 in Physics. It's all about accuracy and avoiding silly mistakes.
It's easy to see a failed mock as proof you're not good enough, but it's actually a stepping stone to the future and best version of you. The students who improve the most between mocks and the real exams are usually the ones who learn from their mistakes instead of dwelling on them.
RBI Grade B
RBI Grade B is one of the toughest and most prestigious banking exams in India, which is conducted by the Reserve Bank of India.
Mock exams are a reality check, and let's be honest—sometimes they don't go to plan. But if you failed your mocks, here's the truth: failing a mock doesn't mean failing the real exam. In fact, it's one of the most valuable learning experiences you can have.
Top 10 Toughest Exams in the United States
The grade that a student achieves in these mocks is usually a fairly accurate reflection of what grade they will obtain in their actual exams unless they make a change to the trajectory that they are on. Students can absolutely improve over time, and many do fairly naturally.
The CFA Level 1 passing score is not fixed every year, but it usually stays between 65% and 70%. CFA Institute does not publish an official cut-off, but this range is considered the minimum benchmark to pass.
Key Highlights:
No, mock exams aren't harder than the real exam. Instead, they're especially designed to be as similar as possible.
People look at failing at something as a negative and it may feel that way in the moment. It gives us the opportunity to take things in a different direction to make things so much better. If you are experiencing a failure at something, know that you are moving to the next level in life. Just be patient.
Studying for the Test
In particular, focus on deep breathing. This technique is known to quell anxiety and make you feel more relaxed. Don't think about everything you've studied up until this point—just focus on feeling confident and at ease. If possible, try to stretch your arms and legs a little, too.
💥A phenomenal feat with 680/720! Meet Avika Aggarwal, our Classroom Program star who has secured AIR 1 emerged as the NEET UG 2025 Top Female Ranker! Her dedication, discipline, and drive have truly made her a trailblazer. 👏
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.
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.
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.