CFA Institute usually releases Level 1 results 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window closes, in your CFA Institute account and by email. The August 2026 pass rate was 43% (28,145 candidates), against a 10-year average of 40%. Your score report shows pass or fail, topic-level performance and your scale score against the Minimum Passing Score.
After completing the CFA Level 1 exam, the next major milestone is receiving your result. CFA Institute does not release results immediately after the exam. Candidates generally receive their official CFA Level 1 results within 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window closes.
Contents
For CFA Level 1 candidates appearing in 2027, understanding the result timeline, how to check the score, pass rates and what to do after the result can help you plan your next step.
When Will CFA Level 1 Results 2027 Be Released?
CFA Institute generally releases Level 1 results within 5 to 9 weeks after the close of the examination window. The exact result date varies by exam administration and is communicated by CFA Institute.
| CFA Level 1 Exam Window | Expected Result Timeline |
|---|---|
| February 2027 | Approximately 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window |
| May 2027 | Approximately 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window |
| August 2027 | Approximately 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window |
| November 2027 | Approximately 5 to 9 weeks after the exam window |
Candidates should rely on their CFA Institute account and registered email address for the official result announcement rather than unofficial dates shared online.
How to Check Your CFA Level 1 Result
Once results are released:
Visit the CFA Institute website.
Sign in to your CFA Institute account.
Go to your CFA Program exam results.
Open your Level 1 result.
Review your result and performance information.
CFA Institute also sends an email when the results become available.
What Does the CFA Level 1 Result Show?
Your CFA Level 1 score report provides more than a simple pass or fail. It includes:
Pass or fail result
Topic-level performance
Overall scale score
Performance information in relation to the Minimum Passing Score (MPS)
What Is the CFA Level 1 MPS?
The Minimum Passing Score (MPS) is the score required to pass a particular CFA examination. CFA Institute establishes the MPS for each exam administration and uses equating when appropriate to maintain comparability between different examinations.
CFA Level 1 Pass Rate
The CFA Level 1 pass rate changes from one examination to another, so historical results should be treated as a reference rather than a prediction of your individual result.
The latest published result is the August 2026 CFA Level 1 examination, with a 43% overall pass rate among 28,145 candidates. The pass rate was 49% for first-time candidates and 29% for candidates testing after at least one deferral.
| Exam | Candidates Tested | Pass Rate |
|---|---|---|
| February 2026 | 24,006 | 45% |
| May 2026 | 31,566 | 39% |
| August 2026 | 28,145 | 43% |
| November 2025 | 26,752 | 43% |
CFA Institute currently reports a 40% 10-year average Level 1 pass rate.
What to Do After Passing CFA Level 1?
Passing Level 1 is the first major examination milestone in the CFA Program. Candidates who pass can explore CFA Level 2, subject to the applicable CFA Institute registration and eligibility requirements.
Your next steps can include:
It is also useful to continue developing practical finance skills such as financial modelling, valuation, equity research and investment analysis alongside CFA preparation.
What If You Do Not Pass CFA Level 1?
A non-passing result does not mean you have to start from zero. Your score report provides topic-level performance information that can help you identify where your preparation needs improvement.
A better approach is:
Focus on whether the main challenge was conceptual understanding, question practice, time management or consistency. Then build your next study plan around those gaps and use practice questions and mock exams to improve your exam readiness.
CFA Level 1 Results 2027: FAQs
When will CFA Level 1 results be released?
CFA Institute generally releases Level 1 results within 5 to 9 weeks after the examination window closes. The exact date varies by administration.
How do I check my CFA Level 1 result?
Candidates can access their result through their CFA Institute account after receiving the result notification.
What is the CFA Level 1 pass rate?
The pass rate varies by examination. The latest published result, August 2026, recorded a 43% overall pass rate.
What is the CFA Level 1 MPS?
The Minimum Passing Score (MPS) is the score required to pass a particular CFA examination. It can vary between administrations.
Can I take CFA Level 1 again if I do not pass?
Candidates who do not pass can plan for another eligible examination window, subject to the current CFA Institute retake and registration policies.
Can I register for CFA Level 2 after passing Level 1?
Yes. Successful Level 1 candidates can progress to Level 2 if they meet the applicable CFA Institute registration and eligibility requirements.
Your next step
Your CFA Level 1 result is more than a pass-or-fail outcome. The score report can help you understand your performance, identify areas for improvement and decide your next step in the CFA Program.
If you pass, you can begin planning for CFA Level 2. If you need another attempt, use your topic-level performance to build a more focused preparation strategy.
At Skilledgrad Institute, CFA preparation is supported through structured offline classes, topic-wise learning, practical financial training and assessments designed to help students stay consistent throughout their preparation.
If you are planning to appear for CFA Level 1 in 2027, speak with a Skilledgrad career counsellor to understand the course structure, preparation approach and available batches.
Start your CFA journey with a structured preparation plan.
