Best CFA Level 1 Study Plan
A good Level 1 study plan balances broad topic coverage with enough repetition on the highest-weighted subjects, spread across a realistic timeline rather than crammed into the final weeks.
Step 1: Set Your Timeline Backward From Exam Day
Start by counting back from your exam date and blocking out roughly four to six months, leaving the final two to three weeks purely for review and full mock exams rather than new material.
Step 2: Sequence Topics by Weight and Dependency
Many candidates start with Ethics (since it’s heavily weighted and conceptually distinct) and Quantitative Methods (since time value of money underpins later topics), then move through Financial Statement Analysis, Equity, Fixed Income, and the remaining topics.
Step 3: Build a Weekly Rhythm
A sustainable rhythm might look like three to four sessions a week covering new material, one or two sessions reviewing prior topics, and a growing block of practice questions as you accumulate more covered material.
| Phase | Focus |
|---|---|
| Months 1–2 | First pass through all topics + light practice questions |
| Months 3–4 | Heavy practice questions, targeted review of weak topics |
| Final 2–3 weeks | Full-length mock exams + final topic review |
Step 4: Layer in Mock Exams Early Enough
Don’t save your first full mock exam for the final week — sit at least one earlier in your timeline (even if your score isn’t great yet) so you know how to pace yourself and where your real weak spots are while you still have time to fix them.
Step 5: Track Topic-Level Accuracy
Keep a simple log of your practice-question accuracy by topic. This turns vague feelings (“I think I’m okay at Derivatives”) into concrete data you can act on.
Adjusting the Plan as You Go
Treat your study plan as a living document. If a topic is taking much longer than expected, it’s better to adjust your schedule honestly than to rush through it just to stay “on plan.”
Quick Tip
Sit a full mock exam earlier than feels comfortable — even a rough early attempt teaches you more about pacing and weak spots than another week of passive reading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common candidate questions about this topic
How far in advance should I start my Level 1 study plan?
Most candidates start four to six months before their exam date, allowing time for both initial learning and repeated practice.
Should I study topics in the order they appear in the curriculum?
Not necessarily — many candidates sequence topics by weight and dependency, starting with Ethics and Quantitative Methods before moving into more applied areas.
How many mock exams should I take before Level 1?
There’s no universal number, but many candidates aim for several full-length mock exams, with the first one taken early enough to still act on the results.