CFA candidate reviewing notes and calculations, reflecting on exam difficulty level.

How Hard Is the CFA® Exam?

An Honest Breakdown of Pass Rates, Tough Topics, and How to Prepare

The CFA® exam is widely regarded as one of the most challenging credentials in finance. This blog offers an honest, in-depth view of how hard the CFA exam really is across all 3 levels. We’ll address common pain points candidates face, compare difficulty by level, and share effective prep strategies to help you navigate this rigorous journey successfully.

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