Preparing for the CFA exam is a big step toward building a global career in finance, investment analysis, or portfolio management. And while many candidates spend several months preparing, it is possible to clear CFA Level 1 in just two months—with the right plan, discipline, and strategy.
This guide breaks down a smart, time-efficient preparation structure to help you make the most of your limited time and approach the exam with confidence.
Understand What CFA Level 1 Really Tests
CFA Level 1 focuses on building a strong foundation in investment principles, financial concepts, ethical standards, and analytical techniques. The exam covers topics such as:
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Ethics
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Quantitative Methods
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Financial Reporting and Analysis
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Corporate Finance
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Equity, Fixed Income, and Derivatives
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Economics
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Portfolio Management
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Alternative Investments
Each topic carries different weightages, so it’s important to prioritize your preparation based on importance and difficulty.
Your 2-Month CFA Level 1 Study Plan
A two-month plan means you’ll need consistency and focus. Here’s a structured approach to guide you:
Weeks 1–3: Build Core Concepts
Start with high-weightage subjects to build your foundation.
These typically include:
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Ethics
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Financial Reporting and Analysis (FRA)
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Equity Investments
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Fixed Income
These areas contribute significantly to your total score, so understanding them early boosts your overall confidence.
Weeks 4–5: Strengthen Analytical Areas
Move to subjects that require deeper thinking:
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Quantitative Methods
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Economics
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Portfolio Management
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Corporate Finance
Use practice questions to reinforce learning. Make short notes for formulas, concepts, and quick revision.
Week 6: Master Remaining Topics
Focus on:
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Derivatives
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Alternative Investments
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Revision of weaker areas
This is also the stage to begin taking full-length mock tests.
How to Make Your Preparation Effective
1. Follow a Daily Study Routine
Aim for 4–5 hours of focused study per day. Break it into smaller sessions to avoid burnout.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice
CFA Level 1 is less about memorizing and more about application. Solve as many practice questions as possible to develop exam-ready thinking.
3. Prioritize Ethics
Ethics is not only high-weightage but also crucial for passing. Review Ethics multiple times to ensure clarity and consistency.
4. Take Full Mock Exams
Mock exams help you learn:
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Time management
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Question style
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Weak areas
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Exam stamina
Take at least 3–4 mocks in the final month.
5. Revise Every Week
Weekly revision helps retain complex formulas, rules, and concepts. Revise notes, summaries, and tricky topics regularly.
What You Need to Succeed in 2 Months
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Consistent study habits
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High-quality practice questions
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Smart time management
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Conceptual clarity
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Mock test analysis
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Strong ethics preparation
A focused two-month plan might be demanding, but with the right approach, it becomes completely achievable.
Final Thoughts
Clearing the May 2025 CFA Level 1 exam in 2 months is absolutely possible when you combine consistency, smart planning, and regular practice. Stay disciplined, track your progress, and use your time wisely. With commitment and the right strategy, you’ll be well-prepared to move one step closer to becoming a global finance professional.