How To Save Money on the CFA® Exam

how to save money on the CFA exam

Along with the other requirements for enrolling in the CFA Program, there are the enrollment fees, which can be expensive. And it becomes more costly when you add in the cost for a third-party prep provider. While earning the Charter will help you economically, we understand that it’s a significant upfront outlay. That’s why we are pleased to share a few ways to help make your CFA Exam experience a bit more affordable.

1) Register Early and Apply for a Scholarship

Plan on spending anywhere between $1,150 to $1,450 to enroll and register for the CFA Exam. If you want to save money, it’s better to schedule your CFA Exam early to pay the Early Registration Fee, which saves you around $300. Also, the CFA Institute offers an Access Scholarship Program to ease the financial burden of CFA candidates who cannot afford to pay the total program fees.

The Access Scholarship award amount waives the CFA Program enrollment fee and reduces the exam registration fee to $250. Still, there are specific eligibility requirements that CFA candidates must meet to apply for the scholarship. You may find more information about Access Scholarship Program eligibility on CFA Institute’s scholarship page.

2) Prepare Thoroughly

One of the most effective ways to keep costs down throughout your CFA charterholder certification process is to pass your CFA Exams the first time. If you fail one of the Levels, you not only have to wait almost another year to take it but must also pay $700 – $1,000 in registration fees once more.

The only way to avoid those additional costs is not to have to pay them. And if you pass the first time, you won’t have to. Ensure that you are fully committed to the program and are willing to put forth the time and energy to pass the exam on your first attempt.

3) Choose the Best Prep Provider

The best way to ensure that you set yourself up for success on the CFA Exam is to prepare with the best CFA prep provider. Do your research before you commit to a particular provider. Choosing a CFA prep provider is a significant investment of both time and money, so make sure you choose wisely. 

UWorld’s CFA Level 1 Learning Platform gives you precisely what you need to succeed on the Level 1 Exam. Our content is developed by experienced charterholders and covers all Level 1 Learning Outcome Statements (LOS). Our platform helps you master only relevant CFA concepts, making your study time more efficient and increasing your chances of passing the first time, which could save you money.

No matter your financial situation, there is always a solution for you when you partner with the UWorld CFA Learning Platform. It’s easy to get started. Explore the exceptional features of UWorld with a 7-day free trial. Good luck as you move forward! Our platform is compatible with computers, tablets, and mobile devices, so that you can use it anywhere, anytime.

As you prepare to embark on your journey to the CFA Charter, we hope you will consider these suggestions to help you pass the CFA Exam the first time, and save some money in the process.


Save when you prepare with UWorld. Get started with a FREE trial of our CFA Level 1 Learning Platform.

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