Let’s face it — the CFA Level 1 exam isn’t just a test. It’s a commitment, a mindset shift, and for many, a launchpad to a career in high finance. If you’re starting with zero background in finance, the idea of cracking CFA Level 1 in six months might sound daunting. But trust me — with the right approach and strategy, it’s not only possible; it’s completely doable.
This is your no-fluff, action-packed roadmap to go from “Where do I begin?” to “I’m ready for exam day!” in just six months.
Month 1: Foundation Building – Lay the Groundwork
You’re not expected to know it all right now — but what you need is clarity on what you’re getting into. Start with:
● CFA Curriculum Overview: Get your hands on the official CFA Institute curriculum. Don’t skip this. It’s the gold standard.
● Set a Study Schedule: Break your 6 months into weekly targets. Plan for at least 12-15 hours/week.
● Focus Areas: Start with Ethics and Quantitative Methods. Ethics because it’s scoring (and carries weight), and Quant because you’ll need it throughout.
● Join a Batch: If you’re serious about succeeding, join a structured coaching program like CareerForge’s CFA Level 1 Coaching, which offers both weekday and weekend batches, led by experienced portfolio managers.
Pro tip: Start slow, but stay consistent. Even 1 hour a day beats doing nothing and cramming later.
Month 2: The Real Game Begins – Core Subject Immersion
Now it’s time to dig deep.
● Subjects to Focus: Financial Reporting & Analysis (FRA), Economics.
● Classroom + Self-Study: If you’re learning through CareerForge, you’ll get access to live sessions and recordings. Watch them, take notes, revisit tough areas.
● Concept First: Don’t mug up formulas. Understand where they come from. This is what sets passers apart from top scorers.
Tools: Use flashcards, mind maps, and start summarizing topics in your own words.
Month 3: Strengthen the Base – Apply What You’ve Learned
Here’s where the CFA prep gets real.
● Subjects: Focus on Corporate Finance and Equity Investments.
● Tests Begin: Take small chapter-end tests. Don’t worry about scores yet — the aim is to identify weak spots.
● Join Doubt Sessions: At CareerForge, you get tailored doubt-clearing sessions. Make the most of them.
By the end of Month 3, you should be 50% through your syllabus and have taken at least one short mock.
Month 4: Crunch Time – Study, Test, Repeat
The syllabus should now be familiar territory.
● Subjects to Target: Fixed Income, Derivatives, Portfolio Management.
● Take 2 Full-Length Mocks: Simulate real exam conditions.
● CareerForge Edge: You’ll get detailed mock reviews, not just scores — that’s a game-changer for improvement.
Focus on: Time management, conceptual application, and building stamina for long exam sessions.
Month 5: Refine & Retain – Smart Study Begins
You’re almost there.
● Go Back to Ethics: Most students forget this. Ethics can make or break your results.
● Review Weak Topics: Revisit every mistake you made in mock exams.
● CareerForge Combo Advantage: If you’ve taken our CFA + Equity Research combo, now’s the time to connect the dots between theory and practical application.
Golden Rule: If you don’t revise it this month, you will forget it by exam day.
Month 6: Full-Throttle Revision & Exam Strategy
This is your war room.
● Take 2 More Full Mocks ideally 1 every 10 days.
● Simulate Exam Day: Same time, same environment, full focus.
● Don’t Burn Out: Balance study with light breaks. Sleep well.
Final Tip from CareerForge Trainers: Trust the process. Don’t switch study methods now. Stick to your plan and believe in your prep.
Why CareerForge Students Have a 90 percentile success score
Because it’s not just coaching here, it’s a complete ecosystem built for success:
● Live sessions + access to recordings.
● Expert trainers who’ve worked on portfolios, not just textbooks.
● Subject-wise tests, 3+ full mocks with detailed analysis.
● Combo programs to make you job-ready, not just exam-ready.
We don’t believe in shortcuts. We believe in strong foundations.
Starting from zero isn’t a disadvantage. It’s a blank canvas. With the right guidance, consistency, and smart preparation, CFA Level 1 in 6 months is yours for the taking.
So, what are you waiting for? Join CareerForge, start your journey, and take your first confident step toward becoming a global finance professional.
Let’s forge your future. Together.
