Skip to content
Independent certification guide · exam data reviewed November 2026 Study guidesBrowse by fieldHow we review
Find a certification

CFA Level I – Investment Analysis

CFA Level I – Investment Analysis vs 3 alternatives compared

Exam fee, level, duration, validity and salary side by side. Blank cells mean we do not have verified data yet.

CFA Level I – Investment AnalysisCFP – Certified Financial PlannerCISI – Wealth & Investment ManagementACIB – Associate of the Chartered Institute of Bankers
VendorCFA InstituteCFP BoardCISILIBF
LevelBeginnerAdvancedIntermediateIntermediate
Exam fee$940–$1,250$825–$925£190–£350£400–£900
DurationTwo 135‑minute sessions———
Passing score————
Valid for————
Typical salary$80K–$120K$75K–$130K£45K–£80K£35K–£60K
Prerequisites————

Which should you choose?

Should I take CFA Level I – Investment Analysis or CFP – Certified Financial Planner first?

CFA Level I – Investment Analysis is the lower-level certification (Beginner vs Advanced), so it is usually the better first step.

Should I take CFA Level I – Investment Analysis or CISI – Wealth & Investment Management first?

CFA Level I – Investment Analysis is the lower-level certification (Beginner vs Intermediate), so it is usually the better first step.

Should I take CFA Level I – Investment Analysis or ACIB – Associate of the Chartered Institute of Bankers first?

CFA Level I – Investment Analysis is the lower-level certification (Beginner vs Intermediate), so it is usually the better first step.