CFA Level 1 is the first step toward becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst. The CFA Institute has officially announced the CFA Level 1 exam date 2025. The May 2025 exam window runs from May 15 to May 21, 2025, and the August 2025 exam window is open from August 20 to August 26, 2025. This article explains everything about the exam dates, schedule, pattern, registration deadlines, eligibility, and the exam day process. Aspirants must correctly follow all critical dates and registration steps to avoid delays or penalties.
CFA Level 1 Exam Date 2025
CFA Level 1 exams are offered in four testing windows across the year: February, May, August, and November. The exam dates are announced in advance so candidates can prepare a study plan. Every exam window remains open for a few days, during which candidates can book a slot based on their preferences and availability.
CFA Level 1 2025 Dates—Detailed Month-Wise Overview
The CFA exam date for 2025 changes based on the testing windows. Each window gives one week to take the test. Here are the expected CFA Level 1 2025 dates:
| Exam Month | Exam Window | Level 1 Dates |
| February | Feb 14–20 | Feb 14 to 20, 2025 |
| May | May 15–21 | May 15 to 21, 2025 |
| August | Aug 20–26 | Aug 20 to 26, 2025 |
| November | Nov 12–18 | Nov 12 to 18, 2025 |
A timetable for the CFA Level 1 exam has been given, which may be used in helping candidates determine which testing window would suit them. Those studying toward a college degree usually prefer the May 2025 or August 2025 windows of the CFA Level 1. Candidates must check for the updated dates on the official website for accuracy. Any delays in registration or booking slots may incur additional costs or even cause the candidate to miss out.
Key Registration Deadlines and Late Fee Details
The CFA Institute opens the registration window about nine months before the exam. Each testing window has three phases: early, standard, and late. Registration deadlines are essential because the fee increases at later stages.
CFA Level 1 Registration Deadline and Fee Stages
The CFA exam fees for Level 1 include enrollment fees (one-time) and exam fees. Candidates appearing for the CFA Level 1 exam for the first time need to pay an additional enrollment fee of ₹29,750 approx. The CFA Level 1 registration process is online via the CFA Institute’s website.
Candidates should keep track of the CFA exam registration deadline to avoid late penalties. Missing the deadline also risks losing the chance to appear in the current window. Below is a typical structure of the CFA Level 1 registration deadline and the associated exam fees:
| Registration Type | Deadline | Exam Fees (INR Approx.) |
| Early | 9 months before exam | ₹79,900 |
| Standard | 6 months before exam | ₹1,06,250 |
| Final (Late) | 4 months before exam | ₹1,23,250 |
CFA Level 1 Exam Windows and Slot Booking Process
Each testing window stays open for about seven days. Candidates must select a time slot as early as possible because slots fill quickly. The CFA Level 1 exam windows provide flexibility but also create the need for fast action to secure preferred dates and centers.
CFA Level 1 Exam Time and Slot Selection
After successful registration, candidates can log into their account and select a testing date within the given exam window. For example:
- The CFA Level 1 May 2025 slot window is open from May 15 to May 21.
- The CFA Level 1 August 2025 exam window runs from August 20 to August 26.
Each testing day provides multiple time slots, depending on the exam center’s capacity. The CFA Level 1 exam time is usually morning or afternoon. All details are shown when the candidate books the slot.
To book a slot:
- Log in to your CFA Institute account.
- Select “Schedule Your Exam.”
- Choose the city and exam center.
- Pick the time and confirm.
Candidates should finalize this process early because delays may result in fewer available slots in their preferred locations.
Eligibility Criteria and Exam Requirements
Before applying, every aspirant must confirm whether they meet the CFA Level 1 eligibility rules. The CFA Institute has set basic qualifications to ensure only qualified students apply. Failing to meet any criteria may lead to rejection of registration or cancellation later.
Who is Eligible to Take CFA Level 1?
To apply for CFA Level 1 in 2025:
- The candidate must be in the final year of their undergraduate degree.
- A copy of the diploma may be required if the degree is already completed.
- A passport is mandatory for ID proof. Other IDs are not accepted.
- Candidates must be proficient in English since all study material and exams are in English.
- There is no age limit or nationality barrier.
All candidates must understand the CFA Level 1 syllabus 2025 to know the topics covered. This syllabus includes ethical and professional standards, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting and analysis, and more. Candidates must follow the CFA Level 1 registration process step by step. Only those who meet the eligibility criteria can appear in the exam.
Exam Pattern and Duration for CFA Level 1
The CFA Level 1 exam follows a fixed format that checks students’ understanding of investment tools, financial analysis, and reporting. The structure remains consistent every year.
CFA Level 1 Exam Pattern and Timing
Here are the key facts about the CFA Level 1 exam pattern and CFA Level 1 exam duration:
- The exam is computer-based.
- It includes 180 multiple-choice questions.
- It is divided into two sessions: morning and afternoon.
- Each session is 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- A break of 30 minutes separates the sessions.
The overall CFA Level 1 exam format is as follows:
| Section | No. of Questions | Duration |
| Session 1 | 90 | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Session 2 | 90 | 2 hours 15 minutes |
| Total | 180 | 4 hours 30 minutes |
Candidates must be at the center at least one hour before the test begins. The CFA Institute does not allow entry once the test starts. Candidates should use official mock exams to better understand the CFA exam schedule 2025.
How to Choose the Right CFA Exam Centre?
The exam center plays a significant role in comfort and travel planning. The CFA Level 1 exam center must be selected during the registration process. Once booked, changes may not be allowed easily.
Selecting and Changing CFA Exam Centers
Candidates can choose their center based on location, convenience, and slot availability. The CFA Institute assigns test centers in major Indian cities like
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Bangalore
- Kolkata
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
Every center follows the same CFA Level 1 exam schedule. The candidate should choose the nearest available option if a center is unavailable in a preferred city. The CFA Level 1 admit card includes the address of the test center and the exam time. Candidates should visit the center a day before to avoid confusion on exam day.
Essential Guidelines for CFA Level 1 Exam Day
The CFA Institute has strict rules for the exam day. Candidates must follow all instructions and carry the required items. Failing to follow the rules may lead to disqualification.
Exam Day Rules and Instructions
Here’s what to remember:
- Carry a printed copy of the CFA Level 1 admit card.
- Bring an original passport for ID verification.
- Use only approved calculators.
- Electronic devices like phones are not allowed.
- Wear comfortable clothing and arrive early.
Test takers should understand the center’s location, reporting time, and assigned seat details. After the exam, results are usually declared 6 to 8 weeks later. Candidates can check the CFA Level 1 result date in their account.
How to Download CFA Level 1 Admit Card?
After completing the registration and slot booking for the CFA Level 1 exam, the next important step is downloading the admit card. The CFA Level 1 admit card confirms that the registration is successful. It includes your details, test date, test time, and the full address of the exam center. Candidates must bring the printed admit card and original passport on exam day. The candidate will not be allowed to enter the test center without these documents.
Steps to Download the FA Level 1 Admit Card
The CFA Institute makes the admit card available online about four weeks before the CFA Level 1 exam date. Candidates receive an email notification once it is available. Here are the steps to download it:
- Open the official website of CFA Institute (www.cfainstitute.org).
- Log in to your CFA Institute account with your email and password.
- On the dashboard, find the “Upcoming Exam” section.
- Click on “Admit Card” and download the PDF file.
- Take a clear printout in black and white or any other color.
Always check if your name, photograph, passport number, and exam center address are correct. If any detail is wrong, immediately contact the CFA support team. Do not wait until the last week. The admit card also shows your CFA Level 1 exam time, which may be in the morning or afternoon. Plan your travel accordingly. Some centers are outside the main city areas, so visiting the location one day before the exam is helpful.
Verifying CFA Level 1 Exam Center Details
Once the CFA Level 1 exam center is assigned, candidates cannot change it easily. So, selecting a convenient location during registration is essential. The exam is held in many Indian cities, including
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Bangalore
- Hyderabad
- Kolkata
- Chennai
Each center follows the standard CFA Level 1 exam schedule set by the CFA Institute. The admit card will mention the exact name, building, floor, and room number of the test location. Candidates must plan to reach the center at least one hour before their exam time.
If the center is in a new or unfamiliar location, visit it a day before the exam. This helps avoid traffic problems or delays on the test day. Carry a valid passport and the printed admit card in hand. Do not bring electronic items or large bags, as most centers do not offer locker facilities.
The CFA Level 1 exam center environment is professional and follows strict security rules. Reach early and stay calm before entering the testing room.
What Happens After the CFA Level 1 Exam?
Once the CFA Level 1 exam is completed, candidates often wonder what to expect next. The post-exam process includes waiting for results, checking scores, and planning the next steps—moving to Level 2 or retaking Level 1. Understanding the complete timeline helps reduce anxiety and better prepare for the future.
The CFA Institute sends an official email when results are ready. The CFA Level 1 result date is not fixed for every year, but it usually falls 6 to 8 weeks after the exam date. Candidates must regularly check their registered email or the CFA portal for updates. The result is published in the candidate’s dashboard.
CFA Level 1 Result Date and Release Method
For example, candidates taking the CFA Level 1 exam in May 2025 can expect their results by early July. Those who sit for the CFA August 2025 exam will likely get their results around mid-October.
The results will show:
- Pass or Fail status
- Performance by topic area
- Percentile rank (compared to other test takers)
Candidates do not receive a detailed score report if they pass. Those who do not pass get a breakdown of their performance, which helps in future preparation. Here’s a sample timeline:
| Exam Window | Exam Dates | Expected Result Date |
| May 2025 | May 15–21, 2025 | July 8–15, 2025 |
| August 2025 | Aug 20–26, 2025 | Oct 10–17, 2025 |
Save a copy of your result for future reference, especially while applying for the CFA Level 2 exam.
Preparing for Level 2 or Retaking Level 1
If the result is a pass, the candidate becomes eligible to register for CFA Level 2. The CFA Level 1 registration process does not need to be repeated for Level 2, but the new exam fees and dates apply. If the result fails, the candidate can reappear for CFA Level 1 in the next available window. For example, someone who fails in May 2025 can register for the CFA Level 1 August 2025 exam window.
Here are a few things to consider after the result:
- Analyze the performance report to find weak topics.
- Revisit the CFA Level 1 syllabus 2025 and revise.
- Follow the CFA Level 1 exam pattern again and solve updated mock tests.
It is also essential to remember that there is no limit to the number of attempts. Candidates can reattempt Level 1 until they pass. However, they must follow the updated curriculum and again pay the applicable CFA exam fees for Level 1. Completing CFA Level 1 is a big step, but planning the next phase right after results will keep the momentum strong.
CFA Level 1 Exam Date FAQs
1. What is the CFA Level 1 Exam Date for May 2025?
The exam window for May 2025 is from May 15 to May 21. Candidates can choose any date within this period during slot booking.
2. What is the CFA Level 1 Result Date for August 2025?
The CFA Level 1 result for the August window is expected in mid-October 2025. Candidates can check it online through the official portal.
3. What is the CFA Level 1 exam pattern in 2025?
The exam contains 180 MCQs, split into two sessions of 2 hours and 15 minutes each. It follows a computer-based format.
4. When is the CFA Level 1 registration deadline?
The standard registration deadline is about 6 months before the exam. Candidates must check the CFA website for accurate dates.
5. How long is the CFA Level 1 exam duration?
The total duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes, split into two equal sessions. A break is given between both parts.
