Many Indian students and young professionals dream of building a successful career in finance. The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program is one of the most respected global qualifications for achieving this goal. The journey begins with CFA Level 1, and one of the first questions that comes to every aspirant’s mind is, what are the CFA Level 1 fees? Understanding the complete cost structure is essential before registering so you can plan your budget without surprises. The CFA Level 1 fees include the exam registration charges and other optional expenses like coaching classes, study materials, mock tests, and even travel or accommodation costs, depending on your exam centre. Students often underestimate these extra costs, which can significantly increase the total budget.
What is the CFA Level 1 Fees?
The CFA Level 1 exam fees have a fixed structure set by the CFA Institute. But depending on your registration window—early or standard—you pay different amounts. Planning your registration timeline is key to saving money. Let’s break down the CFA Level 1 exam cost structure for 2025 and understand what each part means.
CFA Level 1 Exam Fee Details
| Component | USD Amount | INR (Approx) |
| One-time Enrollment Fee | $350 | ₹29,000 |
| Early Registration Fee | $940 | ₹79,900 |
| Standard Registration Fee | $1,250 | ₹106,250 |
Breakdown of Each Fee:
- Enrollment Fee: This is paid once during your CFA journey when registering for Level 1. You won’t pay this again in Level 2 or Level 3. It gives you access to learning resources and program materials.
- Early Registration Fee: You pay a lower exam fee if you register early. This is best for students who plan early.
- Standard Registration Fee: This applies if you miss the early deadline. It’s ₹25,000 higher than the early fee.
CFA Level 1 Total Cost in India (INR) with Examples
Before registering, you should calculate your total budget. This includes the registration fee and any optional costs like coaching or mock tests.
Students from India often want to know the total cost of CFA Level 1 in INR. Here are two scenarios based on current forex rates (USD 1 = ₹85):
Early Registration Scenario
- One-time Enrollment Fee: ₹29,000
- Early Registration Fee: ₹79,900
- Total Cost: ₹108,900
Standard Registration Scenario
- One-time Enrollment Fee: ₹29,000
- Standard Registration Fee: ₹106,250
- Total Cost: ₹135,250
These totals include only exam fees. Other expenses, like coaching and materials, come extra, which we’ll explain below.
Hidden Cost of CFA Level 1 Costs You Must Know
Most students think only of registration fees. But when you begin preparation, you’ll face extra and optional expenses. These costs vary from student to student based on how they choose to study.
Here’s a list of possible extra costs you might need to pay.
Other CFA Level 1 Costs
- Coaching Classes (₹30,000–₹80,000): This cost is added if you choose a coaching institute. However, online classes may be cheaper than classroom ones.
- Third-party Study Materials (₹10,000–₹20,000): Books like Kaplan Schweser or Wiley are popular—these help students who need more straightforward explanations.
- Mock Tests & Practice Papers (₹5,000–₹15,000): These are essential to test your readiness before the exam.
- Travel and Accommodation (₹3,000–₹20,000): You may need to travel to your exam centre and stay overnight, especially in metro cities.
So, depending on these choices, the total CFA Level 1 cost could go up to ₹1.5–1.7 lakhs for many students.
How to Reduce CFA Level 1 Fees and Save Money?
CFA exams are expensive, but thoughtful planning can help reduce costs. Students in India have many ways to lower expenses without reducing the quality of their preparation.
Here are some practical ways to save money on CFA Level 1 exam costs.
Tips to Cut Down Your CFA Costs
- Register Early: This single decision can save you ₹25,000 or more.
- Use Free CFA Resources: For prep, use the CFA Institute’s study materials, YouTube videos, Reddit groups, and free PDFs.
- Skip Coaching If Self-motivated: If disciplined, self-study with the official curriculum can save significantly.
- Form Study Groups: Group with friends for group learning and shared resources.
- Avoid Physical Books Shipping: Choose eBooks to avoid extra delivery charges.
Following these, you can bring your CFA Level 1 expenses down to under ₹1.1 lakh.
CFA Level 1 Scholarships in 2025
CFA Institute offers several scholarships to reduce the fee burden. These are available for Indian students, too, and can lower your fee to just $300. That’s a huge benefit for students with limited income or other constraints.
Here’s a table to help you understand the types of scholarships available:
| Scholarship Name | Reduced Fee (INR) | Who Can Apply |
| Access Scholarship | ₹29000 | Financially weak students |
| Women’s Scholarship | ₹29000 | Female applicants |
| Student Scholarship | ₹29000 | College/university students |
| Professor Scholarship | ₹29000 | University professors/teachers |
Important Tips:
- Apply early and submit proof of proper income and essays.
- Keep checking the CFA Institute’s site for deadlines.
- Scholarship decisions take time, so plan your registration accordingly.
CFA Level 1 Registration Deadlines in 2025
Missing deadlines can lead to paying more or skipping the attempt altogether. Knowing your CFA Level 1 registration deadline helps you register early and avoid last-minute issues.
Here’s an overview of the registration windows:
| Exam Month | Early Deadline | Standard Deadline |
| February 2025 | August 2024 | November 2024 |
| May 2025 | October 2024 | January 2025 |
| August 2025 | February 2025 | May 2025 |
| November 2025 | May 2025 | August 2025 |
Always register during the early window if you want to save money and get better study time.
Is CFA Level 1 Worth the Fees?
CFA Level 1 may seem expensive, but the career rewards are substantial. It opens doors to high-paying roles in investment banking, equity research, and asset management.
Many Indian students and professionals find the return on investment (ROI) very high. Here’s why the fees are worth it:
Career Value of CFA Level 1
- Global Certification: This certification is accepted by firms worldwide, including India, UAE, USA, and more.
- Job Opportunities: Helps you get into firms like EY, Deloitte, Morgan Stanley, and top banks.
- Higher Pay Packages: Many CFA candidates in India get 30–40% salary hikes after passing Level 1.
- Improved Financial Skills: Helps you master financial reporting, economics, and analysis.
So yes, CFA Level 1 fees are worth it if you are serious about a long-term finance career.
CFA Level 1 Exam Format
Before you pay the fee, you should understand the exam format and what you are signing up for. The CFA Level 1 exam is computer-based and held four times a year.
Key CFA Exam Details
- Duration: 4 hours and 30 minutes split into two sessions
- Question Type: 180 multiple-choice questions
- Subjects: Ethics, Quantitative Methods, Economics, Financial Reporting, Corporate Finance, etc.
- Passing Score: Not disclosed, but estimated around 65–70%
This format requires deep understanding, and that’s why students spend months preparing.
CFA Level 1 Fees FAQs
1. What is the CFA Level 1 fee for Indian students?
It ranges between ₹1,08,900 and ₹1,35,250 based on when you register.
2. Can I reduce my CFA Level 1 fee?
Yes, register early and apply for scholarships. Use free study resources and avoid coaching.
3. Is there a refund policy for CFA exam fees?
No, the CFA Institute does not refund registration fees.
4. How much is the CFA Level 1 scholarship fee?
You pay only $300 (around ₹25,000) if you get a scholarship.
5. What is the CFA Level 1 exam frequency?
It is held four times yearly—in February, May, August, and November.
