CFA Level I – Investment Analysis
The CFA Level I exam tests foundational investment knowledge through 180 multiple‑choice questions across ethics, quantitative methods, economics, and core finance topics.
- Exam fee
- $940–$1,250
- Duration
- Two 135‑minute sessions
- Typical salary
- $80K–$120K
CFA Level I is valuable for anyone starting a career in banking or asset management who wants a globally recognized credential. If you lack the time for the intensive study load, a more entry‑level certification may be a better fit.
What CFA Level I – Investment Analysis covers
The globally benchmarked investment credential issued by CFA Institute (cfainstitute.org). CFA Level I is mandatory for investment banking analyst progression at most global banks.
Key topics covered: Ethics & Standards, Equity Analysis, Fixed Income, Derivatives, Portfolio Theory, Financial Statement Analysis, Economics.
Best suited for: Banking analysts, graduates, and professionals entering investment banking or asset management.
Common career paths: Investment Banking Analyst, Credit Analyst, Research Associate, Treasury Analyst.
CFA Level I – Investment Analysis exam details
180 multiple‑choice questions
Exam domains
- Ethical and Professional Standards (10-15%)
- Quantitative Methods (11-14%)
- Economics (6-9%)
- Financial Statement Analysis (11-14%)
- Corporate Finance (6-9%)
- Equities (11-14%)
- Fixed Income (11-14%)
- Derivatives and Risk Management (6-9%)
- Alternative Investments (6-9%)
- Portfolio Construction (8-12%)
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $940–$1,250
- Duration
- Two 135‑minute sessions
How to prepare for CFA Level I – Investment Analysis
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Familiarize with the official outline Read the CFA Institute’s topic weight table and understand the scope of each domain. | Week 1 |
| 2 | Core concept building Study Ethics, Quantitative Methods, and Economics – the foundational blocks that support later topics. | Weeks 2‑4 |
| 3 | Deep dive into finance modules Cover Financial Statement Analysis, Corporate Finance, Equities, Fixed Income and Derivatives, using the CFA curriculum’s learning outcome statements. | Weeks 5‑8 |
| 4 | Apply to practice questions Work through multiple‑choice questions per domain, focusing on the three‑choice format described on the official page. | Weeks 9‑10 |
| 5 | Full‑length timed mock exams Take two 135‑minute mock exams to build stamina and refine time‑management (≈90 seconds per question). | Weeks 11‑12 |
Jobs and salary with CFA Level I – Investment Analysis
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $80K–$120K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
CFA Level I – Investment Analysis questions answered
What is the CFA Level I – Investment Analysis certification?
The CFA Level I exam tests foundational investment knowledge through 180 multiple‑choice questions across ethics, quantitative methods, economics, and core finance topics. It is issued by CFA Institute and sits in the Banking field.
Is CFA Level I – Investment Analysis hard?
CFA Level I – Investment Analysis is rated Beginner. Most candidates can prepare without prior professional experience in the field.
How much does the CFA Level I – Investment Analysis exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $940–$1,250. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with CFA Institute before you book.
How long is the CFA Level I – Investment Analysis exam?
The exam runs for Two 135‑minute sessions.
What salary can I expect with CFA Level I – Investment Analysis?
Professionals with CFA Level I – Investment Analysis commonly report pay in the $80K–$120K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for CFA Level I – Investment Analysis?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to CFA Level I – Investment Analysis
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CFP – Certified Financial Planner | CFP Board | Advanced |
| CISI – Wealth & Investment Management | CISI | Intermediate |
| ACIB – Associate of the Chartered Institute of Bankers | LIBF | Intermediate |
| FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking Professionals | GARP | Advanced |