Download Free CFA Level 1 Sample Questions at cfainstitute.org

The  CFA Institute website provides free CFA Level 1 sample questions. Follow the link to get the questions.

CFA® Program Level I Sample Questions | CFA Institute

The free sample questions are a good way to understand the CFA exam format and familiarise oneself with the curriculum. 

Preparing for CFA needs around 300 hours of  preparation, so the sample questions are a good way to understand the process. 

Downlad the questions from the link.

CFA Level 1 for August - What to Prepare Today - Day 1

CFA Level 1 90 Days Journey

Suppose you are starting your CFA Level 1 prep today for August. The right way would be to use the information accumulated from years of CFA prep stories. August exams is approximately 90 Days away. Here is how to start the prep journey.

Very Important

Choose the right starting topic

Evidence‑based study orders for CFA Level 1 recommend starting with Quantitative Methods, especially time value of money, basic statistics, and probability, because these feed into Fixed Income, Derivatives, and Portfolio.

Concrete Day 1 Plan  (Assuming 3-4 hours)

1. Understand format for exams

2. Learn the ecosystem, see dashboard and topics 

(If you haven't done these so far!)

3. Study the first Quant reading on time value of money and cash flow basics from your notes/videos/study provider content

4. Immediately do the end‑of‑reading / topic questions (aim 20–30 questions) to cement formulas like , , annuities, and basic return measures

 You don't want me to explain what FV, PV are!

4. Read a short summary of the Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, without trying to memorise every detail

A daily dose of ethics keeps one acquainted with the nuances of Ethics and most study providers suggest that. 

5. Start an excel tracker of topics covered (or you can download those available), and cross off topics. A calendar always helps

6. Start a flash card of key formulas and definitions

7. Write down the exact Day 2 plan.

Come back tomorrow for the Day 2 plan

CFA Level 1 in 2026: Strategy, Stats, and Cracking the Code

So, you’ve decided to sit for the CFA Level 1. Whether you’re a finance veteran or a career-switcher, you’re now facing the mountain of knowledge. With over 3,000 pages of curriculum and a pass rate that historically hovers around 40-45%, this isn't an exam you can "cram" for over a long weekend.

To help you navigate the 2026 landscape, we’ve broken down the dos and don'ts strategy that will help crack Level 1. 

1. The Numbers You Need to Know

The most recent data from the November 2025 and August 2025 sessions shows a consistent 43% pass rate. But here’s the kicker: First-time candidates see a pass rate closer to 49-50%. Retakers (after a deferral) drop significantly to 29%.

The Lesson: Momentum is everything. If you start, finish. Deferring doesn't just cost you a fee; it statistically lowers your chances of passing.

2. The 2026 Curriculum: What’s New?The good news? The 2026 syllabus is largely a carry-over from 2025, providing a stable foundation. Here is the approximate weighting you'll be dealing with:Topic AreaWeightingPriority LevelEthics & Professional Standards15–20%Critical (Tie-breaker)Financial Statement Analysis (FSA)11–14%High (Heavy technicals)Fixed Income11–14%High (Complex math)Equity Investments11–14%HighPortfolio Management8–12%MediumQuantitative Methods6–9%FoundationalCorporate Issuers6–9%MediumEconomics6–9%MediumAlternative Investments7–10%Low/MediumDerivatives5–8%Low (Very technical)

3. Strategy: The "Non-Linear" Study OrderDon't just start at Page 1. To build a mental framework that actually sticks, try this order:

• Quantitative Methods: It’s the "language" of the exam (Time Value of Money, etc.).
• FSA: The most time-consuming. Get through it early while your brain is fresh.
• Fixed Income & Equity: These build directly on your Quant and FSA skills.
• Ethics: Save this for the final 4 weeks. It’s about nuance and "CFA-speak"; you want it in your short-term memory. 

4. The "Practical Skills" Requirement - Remember, passing the exam isn't enough anymore. You must complete one Practical Skills Module (PSM) to receive your results. For Level 1, you choose between: Financial Modeling: Best for aspiring Investment Bankers or Equity Analysts. 

Python Programming Fundamentals: Best for those looking toward FinTech or 

Data Science.

Pro Tip: Don't leave the PSM for the week after the exam. It takes about 10–15 hours to complete. Do it during a "light" study week to break up the monotony of the textbooks.

5. The Final 30-Day Rule - The last month is where the exam is won or lost.

Mock Exams: Aim for at least 4–6 full-length mocks.

The 70% Threshold: If you’re scoring consistently above 70% in mocks, you’re in the "Safe Zone.

Master the Calculator: If you’re still hunting for the $[N]$ or $[I/Y]$ buttons on your TI BA II Plus during the exam, you’ve already lost. 

Speed is a skill.

Final Thoughts: Level 1 isn't necessarily about "genius-level" math; it’s an endurance test. It tests your ability to manage 10 different disciplines simultaneously. Stay disciplined, respect the "Ethics Adjustment," and we’ll see you at Level 2.

Are you targeting the August or November window? Let us know your biggest struggle in the comments below!