The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) credential is one of the most respected and globally recognized certifications for professionals in the field of finance and investment. Pursuing the CFA program is a rigorous yet rewarding journey, and the CFA Level 1 exam serves as the first stepping stone towards earning this prestigious title. For candidates in India, understanding the exam dates and registration fees is crucial in planning for the CFA Level 1 exam. In this article, we’ll provide all the essential information you need to know about CFA Level 1 exam dates, registration fees, and how The WallStreet School can guide you in your CFA preparation.

Overview of the CFA Level 1 Exam

The CFA Level 1 exam is designed to assess candidates’ knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of investment tools, financial reporting, economics, and ethical and professional standards. This exam is the first of three levels in the CFA Program, and it is known for its challenging content and rigorous structure. Passing the Level 1 exam is a significant milestone on the path to earning the CFA charter.

CFA Level 1 Exam Dates for 2025

The CFA Institute offers the CFA Level 1 exam at multiple intervals throughout the year. Candidates can choose to sit for the exam during one of the following windows:

1. February 2025 Exam

• Registration Period: From August 2024 to December 2024
• Exam Date: February 2025 (Exact date to be confirmed by CFA Institute)

2. May 2025 Exam

• Registration Period: From October 2024 to March 2025
• Exam Date: May 2025 (Exact date to be confirmed by CFA Institute)

3. August 2025 Exam

• Registration Period: From February 2025 to May 2025
• Exam Date: August 2025 (Exact date to be confirmed by CFA Institute)

4. November 2025 Exam

• Registration Period: From May 2025 to August 2025
• Exam Date: November 2025 (Exact date to be confirmed by CFA Institute)

The CFA exams are generally offered on a fixed date, with candidates required to choose a test center location within India or internationally. The exact dates for the exams may vary slightly from year to year, so it’s important to check the CFA Institute website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Important Deadlines

Candidates must be aware of important registration deadlines to avoid late fees or losing the opportunity to sit for their chosen exam window. Early registration provides the best chance to secure a preferred exam date and location, while also benefiting from the lowest fees. Generally, CFA candidates are advised to register at least 3-4 months before the exam window to ensure they have enough time for preparation and study.

CFA Level 1 Registration Fees in India

The CFA registration process is straightforward, but understanding the fees is crucial for candidates to plan their finances effectively. The CFA Level 1 registration fee is divided into two main components: Enrollment Fees and Exam Fees.

1. Enrollment Fee

The CFA Level 1 exam includes a one-time enrollment fee for first-time registrants. This is a non-refundable fee that candidates must pay when they register for the exam. For Indian candidates, the enrollment fee is typically in the range of USD 450, depending on the time of registration.

2. Exam Fee

The exam fee varies based on when the candidate registers for the exam:

• Early Registration Fee: If a candidate registers early, they can take advantage of the lowest exam fee. The early registration fee for CFA Level 1 is generally around USD 700-800.
• Standard Registration Fee: After the early registration period closes, candidates who register later will need to pay the standard registration fee, which is usually between USD 1,000-1,200.
• Late Registration Fee: If you miss the early and standard registration deadlines, you may still be able to register for the exam by paying a late fee. The late registration fee is generally USD 1,300-1,400.

Thus, candidates who wish to keep their costs lower should register as early as possible.

3. Additional Costs

While the registration and exam fees are the main expenses, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam:

• Study Materials: The CFA Institute provides some study materials, but many candidates choose to buy additional prep books, study guides, and practice exams. The cost of additional study materials can vary, ranging from INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 depending on the provider.
• CFA Coaching: If you prefer structured guidance, enrolling in a CFA coaching program like the one offered by The WallStreet School is an excellent option. Coaching fees vary based on the program and duration.

Example Fee Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs for an Indian candidate:

• Enrollment Fee: USD 450 (Approx. INR 35,000)
• Early Exam Fee: USD 700 (Approx. INR 54,000)
• Total (without additional materials or coaching): Around INR 89,000 to INR 95,000 (depending on the exchange rate).

For candidates opting for extra study materials and coaching, the cost could rise significantly.

How The WallStreet School Can Help

The WallStreet School is a trusted name when it comes to CFA preparation in India. With years of experience in training finance professionals, we offer comprehensive programs designed to help candidates pass the CFA Level 1 exam with confidence.

Why Choose The WallStreet School?

1. Expert Faculty: Our team consists of highly experienced trainers who understand the CFA syllabus inside-out and can help you with detailed explanations and tips.
2. Comprehensive Study Material: We provide well-structured study material that covers every aspect of the CFA Level 1 curriculum. Our study guides are easy to follow and cater to both beginners and professionals.
3. Mock Tests and Practice Papers: We offer numerous mock exams and practice papers that simulate the actual CFA exam experience, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the exam format and time management.
4. Personalized Coaching: Our one-on-one coaching sessions are tailored to meet your individual learning needs. We help you create a study plan that suits your schedule and strengths.
5. Flexible Learning Options: Whether you prefer online classes, weekend sessions, or intensive study programs, we have flexible learning options that fit your needs.

Get Started with The WallStreet School

If you are planning to take the CFA Level 1 exam, enrolling in a coaching program from The WallStreet School is one of the best decisions you can make. Our expert guidance, structured approach, and focus on helping you pass will set you on the path to success.

Conclusion

The CFA Level 1 exam is a challenging but rewarding test that opens the doors to numerous career opportunities in finance and investment. Knowing the exam dates, registration deadlines, and fees is vital for proper planning. In India, early preparation and strategic registration are key to keeping costs manageable while ensuring that you have sufficient time for study.

By enrolling in a preparatory program with The WallStreet School, you can ensure that you are fully equipped to tackle the exam with confidence. Start your CFA journey today and take the first step towards becoming a globally recognized finance professional!

For more information on CFA Level 1 preparation, visit The WallStreet School website.