In 2027, CFA Level 1 will be held in four windows: 22 to 28 February, 11 to 17 May, 15 to 22 August and 13 to 19 November. Registration costs USD 1,140 (early) or USD 1,490 (standard), plus local taxes. Registering does not book your exam slot: you must also schedule an appointment within your window before the scheduling deadline.
The CFA Level 1 exam is the first step in the CFA Program and introduces candidates to core areas of investment analysis, financial markets, portfolio management and professional standards. It is designed for university students, graduates and working professionals looking to build a career in finance and investment management.
Contents
For 2027, CFA Level 1 will be conducted across four examination windows: February, May, August and November.
For the latest official CFA Program information, candidates can refer to the CFA Institute: CFA Program.
CFA Level 1 Exam Windows 2027
The CFA Level 1 exam is computer-based. It is not conducted on one single fixed date for all candidates. Instead, candidates select an available exam appointment within the examination window they register for.
| Exam Window | Examination Dates |
|---|---|
| February 2027 | 22 to 28 February 2027 |
| May 2027 | 11 to 17 May 2027 |
| August 2027 | 15 to 22 August 2027 |
| November 2027 | 13 to 19 November 2027 |
Registration vs Exam Scheduling
Registration and exam scheduling are two separate steps. Registering for CFA Level 1 does not automatically book your exam appointment. After registration, candidates must schedule an available appointment within their selected examination window.
CFA Level 1 Fees 2027
According to the 2027 schedule:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Early Registration | USD 1,140 |
| Standard Registration | USD 1,490 |
| Difference | USD 350 |
Local taxes may apply in addition to the published fees.
CFA Level 1 February 2027
Exam Window: 22 to 28 February 2027
| Important Deadline | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opened | 5 May 2026 |
| Early Registration Deadline | 7 July 2026 |
| Invoice Payment Deadline | 26 September 2026 |
| Standard Registration Deadline | 5 November 2026 |
| Scheduling Deadline | 10 November 2026 |
| Rescheduling Deadline | 11 February 2027 |
Candidates targeting the February window should begin preparation early enough to allow time for learning, question practice, revision and mock exams.
CFA Level 1 May 2027
Exam Window: 11 to 17 May 2027
| Important Deadline | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opened | 12 August 2026 |
| Early Registration Deadline | 14 October 2026 |
| Invoice Payment Deadline | 1 January 2027 |
| Standard Registration Deadline | 10 February 2027 |
| Scheduling Deadline | 16 February 2027 |
| Rescheduling Deadline | 30 April 2027 |
The May window can be suitable for students and working professionals who want to plan their preparation around their academic or professional schedules.
CFA Level 1 August 2027
Exam Window: 15 to 22 August 2027
| Important Deadline | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | 3 November 2026 |
| Early Registration Deadline | 20 January 2027 |
| Invoice Payment Deadline | 20 March 2027 |
| Standard Registration Deadline | 29 April 2027 |
| Scheduling Deadline | 6 May 2027 |
| Rescheduling Deadline | 4 August 2027 |
Candidates choosing the August window have the flexibility to plan their preparation around college, work and other commitments.
CFA Level 1 November 2027
Exam Window: 13 to 19 November 2027
The November 2027 examination window is scheduled for 13 to 19 November 2027. Detailed registration and scheduling deadlines for this window are yet to be announced.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare for CFA Level 1?
There is no single preparation timeline that works for every CFA Level 1 candidate. The time required depends on factors such as your academic background, existing finance knowledge, daily study availability, college or work commitments and the examination window you choose.
Some candidates may prefer a longer preparation period, while others may be able to prepare within a shorter timeframe by dedicating more hours to their studies.
Around 9 Months: Alongside Graduation
Students preparing for CFA Level 1 alongside graduation may prefer a longer preparation period of around 9 months. This gives them more flexibility to balance college academics with CFA classes, self-study, practice and revision.
Around 6 Months: A Faster Preparation Approach
Candidates who have more time available for CFA preparation may be able to prepare in approximately 6 months. This requires a consistent study schedule and regular practice alongside classroom learning.
Around 4 Months: An Intensive Preparation Approach
In some cases, candidates with strong finance fundamentals and significant study availability may be able to prepare within 4 months. This is a much more intensive approach and may not be suitable for everyone.
These are examples rather than fixed preparation timelines. Your ideal preparation period should be decided based on your individual circumstances and the amount of time you can realistically dedicate to CFA Level 1 preparation.
At Skilledgrad, students can discuss their academic or professional commitments, preferred exam window and preparation requirements with the faculty team to develop a study approach that suits their situation.
The key is to allow sufficient time for:
How Skilledgrad Helps You Prepare for CFA Level 1
Preparing for CFA Level 1 requires more than simply completing the syllabus. You need a structured approach that combines learning, practice, revision and exam preparation.
At Skilledgrad, students are supported through:
Expert FacultyLearn concepts from experienced faculty with a focus on clear conceptual understanding.
Comprehensive LearningCover the CFA Level 1 curriculum systematically across the key subjects.
Practical LearningConnect finance concepts with practical applications to make learning more relevant.
Regular Topic-Wise TestsAssess your understanding after each topic and identify areas that need improvement.
Comprehensive & Integrated PracticeStrengthen your preparation through continuous question practice and application-based learning.
Revision & Mock Exam PreparationBuild exam readiness through revision, practice and mock tests before the examination.
Doubt Clarification & Faculty GuidanceGet academic support throughout your preparation whenever you need help with difficult concepts.
Flexible Preparation ApproachYour preparation can be planned around your academic or professional commitments and the CFA Level 1 exam window you choose.
The objective is to help students move through the complete preparation cycle:
Which CFA Level 1 2027 Window Should You Choose?
The right examination window depends on your current academic or professional commitments, finance background, study availability and the amount of preparation time you need.
Instead of choosing an exam window only based on the date, consider how much time you can realistically dedicate to classes, self-study, question practice, revision and mock exams.
Planning your preparation early can also help you avoid last-minute registration and scheduling issues.
CFA Level 1 2027 FAQs
Is CFA Level 1 conducted online?
CFA Level 1 is a computer-based examination conducted at designated testing locations.
Can I choose my CFA Level 1 exam date?
Yes. CFA Level 1 is offered during an examination window, and candidates select an available appointment within that window.
Does registration automatically book my exam slot?
No. Registration and exam scheduling are separate steps. Candidates must complete the scheduling process after registration.
Can I prepare for CFA Level 1 while studying in college?
Yes. Many candidates prepare alongside their graduation. The preparation period can be planned according to your college schedule and available study time.
Is CFA Level 1 suitable for working professionals?
Yes. Working professionals can prepare for CFA Level 1 by selecting an examination window that gives them sufficient time to balance work and preparation.
How should I prepare for CFA Level 1?
A strong preparation approach should combine conceptual learning, regular practice, topic-wise testing, revision and mock examinations rather than relying only on completing the syllabus.
Start Your CFA Level 1 2027 Preparation
Choosing the right examination window is only the first step. Your preparation strategy, consistency and practice will play an important role in your CFA Level 1 journey.
If you are planning to appear for CFA Level 1 in 2027, start by evaluating your available preparation time, selecting a suitable examination window and building a realistic study plan.
Skilledgrad Institute provides CFA preparation support through expert faculty, structured learning, practical exposure, regular tests, practice, revision and exam-oriented preparation.
Plan your CFA Level 1 2027 preparation early and prepare with a strategy that suits your academic or professional schedule.
