Best CFA® Question Bank for 2025 | Levels 1, 2, and 3

Struggling to choose a CFA® QBank? See the top picks for Level 1, 2, and 3 - and find out what sets them apart for your 2025 exam prep.
Professionals reviewing the best CFA QBank options for 2025 across Levels 1, 2, and 3.

With the CFA exam growing more competitive each year, the right QBank isn’t just helpful - it’s essential. In this guide, we break down the best CFA QBanks for 2025 by level, format, and features to help you prepare smarter.

Why the Right CFA Question Bank Matters at Every Level

Every CFA exam level tests more than just subject knowledge; it tests how you apply it under pressure. A thoughtfully designed QBank helps you move beyond passive reading and develop the skills you need to perform on exam day.

Whether you're reviewing ethics at Level 1, tackling item sets at Level 2, or writing constructed responses at Level 3, your question bank should evolve with the challenge.

Here’s what sets top-tier QBanks apart across all levels:

Realistic, exam-style questions

A strong CFA Level 1 question bank introduces foundational thinking through clearly framed questions. As you progress, the CFA Level 2 question bank should offer integrated vignette sets, while the CFA Level 3 question bank must include essay-style practice and portfolio-based scenarios.

Built-in active recall

Active recall, which involves retrieving information rather than re-reading it, boosts memory retention. Adaptive QBanks reinforce this through timed quizzes, spaced repetition, and cumulative review.

Performance tracking that works for you

Smart analytics help identify trends in your performance. Whether you’re struggling with FRA, fixed income, or constructed responses, targeted insights help you close gaps faster.

Prep tools that match exam demands

A mobile-friendly platform, customizable quizzes, and features like flashcards can turn your commute or lunch break into productive study time, without burnout.

How to Choose the Best CFA QBank in 2025: A Practical Checklist

With so many providers claiming to offer the best CFA prep, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. This checklist helps you focus on what matters, whether you're selecting a CFA Level 1 question bank for foundational skills or a CFA Level 3 question bank to refine essay writing.

Matches the CFA Exam Format
  • Level 1: CBT-style interface, flagging, and time-tracking features
  • Level 2: Vignette-based item sets with integrated topics
  • Level 3: Full essay (constructed-response) simulation with scoring rubrics
Written and Reviewed by CFA Charterholders
  • Real-world insight and CFAI-style logic
  • Especially important for CFA Level 2 question bank users needing conceptual depth
Offers Clear, Visual Explanations
  • Step-by-step reasoning with diagrams and tables
  • Goes beyond just giving the correct answer, explains the “why”
Mobile Access and Study Personalization
  • Fully responsive or app-based platforms
  • Custom quizzes by topic or difficulty
  • Flashcards and bookmarks for spaced repetition
  • Look for reliable CFA QBank mobile apps for studying on the go

Best CFA QBank Comparison: Which One Stands Out in 2025?

Feature UWorld CFA QBank Kaplan Schweser AnalystPrep CFAI Official QBank
Question Quality CFAI-style, concept-based Some inconsistencies Moderate match Official source
Explanations Visual + step-by-step Text-heavy Basic Limited
Mobile-Friendly Full features Basic Moderate Limited
Essay Support (Level 3) Full essay planner Minimal tips Light support Actual past exams
Performance Analytics Advanced + Smart Review Basic Spreadsheet-based None
Flashcards & Notes Auto-generated None Manual No
Price Included in plan Premium Budget With registration

What’s the Best CFA QBank for Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3?

Each level of the CFA exam comes with its own set of challenges, and your QBank should be built to meet them. Below, we break down the top-rated options for Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3, highlighting what sets each one apart and what real users are saying.

Best CFA Level 1 QBank

CFA Level 1 introduces you to a vast range of topics, from ethics and economics to financial reporting, all tested at a brisk pace. To succeed, you need a question bank that not only covers the material but reinforces it in a way that sticks.

Must-Have Features for Level 1 Success

  • A CFA Level 1 question bank with thousands of exam-style questions modeled on CFAI's tone and difficulty
  • Smart explanations that break down logic, helping you build true concept mastery
  • A mobile-friendly platform that allows you to study in short, focused sessions
  • Visual aids like formula sheets, tables, and concept maps to support fast review
Feature UWorld CFA Kaplan Schweser AnalystPrep CFAI QBank
Question Quality Exam-level difficulty Moderate, less adaptive Basic to intermediate Official, but easier
Explanations Step-by-step visuals Text-heavy Limited depth Short blurbs
Mobile Access Fully responsive, synced App available App available CFA Learning App
Flashcards Auto-generated from missed Qs Manual creation Manual or premade None
Analytics Advanced performance tracking Basic score metrics Limited Minimal
Visual Learning Aids Diagrams, tables, formulas Minimal Few diagrams None
Best For Active learners, beginners Structured review Budget prep Official practice
“I passed Level 1 above 90th percentile and owe a ton of credit to UWorld. The practice questions and mocks are great, but the answers with explanations are even better.” - View Full Information

Start CFA Level 1 Strong - Try UWorld’s QBank

Smart questions. Visual answers. Mobile learning. Everything you need to pass CFA Level 1.

Best CFA Level 2 QBank

Level 2 is where many candidates hit a wall, not because the topics are unfamiliar, but because the exam demands deeper, integrated thinking. A strong CFA Level 2 question bank should simulate how concepts are tested together in vignette sets, not in isolation.

What Makes a Great CFA Level 2 QBank

  • Full vignette-style question sets that test concept connections across disciplines
  • In-depth explanations that walk you through logic, not just formulas
  • Strategy tips to help you avoid traps and common misreads
  • Smart analytics that help you track topic mastery and pinpoint weak areas
Feature UWorld CFA Kaplan Schweser AnalystPrep CFAI QBank
Item Set Structure Full vignette-based Item sets, some reused Case-based, less realistic Official item sets
Application Focus Real-world scenarios + rationales Summary logic Concept review Concept focus only
Concept Integration Strong cross-topic links Isolated topics Some integration Weak integration
Analytics Adaptive dashboard, weak areas mapped Basic progress tracker Percentile ranking None
Flashcards Auto-built from vignettes Manual Limited None
Mobile Access Full platform access App access App with sync issues CFA Learning App
Best For Conceptual application, retention Broad review Budget learners Official content only
“Level 2 is brutal. UWorld’s book with the QBank helped me apply concepts - not just memorize formulas.” – View Full Information

Get CFA Level 2 Ready with the Right QBank

Practice like it’s exam day. UWorld’s QBank prepares you with vignette-style sets and conceptual rationales.

Best CFA Level 3 QBank

CFA Level 3 is unlike the earlier exams; it tests how well you can apply what you’ve learned through written responses and portfolio-focused case analysis. Success here depends not just on knowledge, but on clarity, structure, and time management. A great CFA Level 3 question bank prepares you for all of it.

Here’s What the Right QBank Should Offer

  • Full AM essay simulation with tools for structuring and refining responses
  • Item sets that connect portfolio theory with real-world scenarios
  • Built-in flashcards and note-taking options pulled from missed questions
  • Scoring guidelines and answer walkthroughs to improve writing precision
  • Tools specifically built for constructed response practice and timing
Feature UWorld CFA Kaplan Schweser AnalystPrep CFAI QBank
Essay (AM) Practice Full-length CR (essay) Qs Basic CR examples Partial essay focus Past CFA exams only
Scoring Guidance Rubrics + sample answers Limited feedback Answer outlines only None
PM (MCQ) Quality Exam-level, reasoning-based Moderate MCQs Basic logic Real questions
Portfolio Focus Diagrams, goal-based examples Basic instruction Theory-heavy Real case examples
Mobile Access Yes – synced planner & review tools App – less intuitive Some lag on app Learning App only
Review Tools Essay builder, answer practice mode Static PDFs End-of-section review No structure
Best For Essay performance + strategy Structured review Budget essay prep Past exam simulation only
“I ended up purchasing the QBank for level 3 Feb 2025 and so far so good. It seems to be like Level 1 and 2, with solid explanations.” View Full Information

Dominate CFA Level 3 Essays with UWorld

Train for real-world portfolio writing and build confidence in essay responses.

Why UWorld CFA QBank for All Levels Is the Best for Exam Success

What makes UWorld stand out as the best CFA QBank for Level 1, 2, and 3 in 2025? It’s not just the volume of questions or sleek design - it’s how each feature is built to actively support how candidates learn, recall, and apply CFA concepts under pressure. 

Here’s why UWorld consistently ranks as a top choice among serious CFA candidates:

  • Crafted by CFA charterholders to reflect real exam tone, difficulty, and format
  • Step-by-step explanations that use visual aids, formulas, and logic, not just answers
  • Adaptive tools that generate quizzes based on performance and weak areas
  • Flashcards automatically built from missed questions for efficient review
  • Fully responsive mobile access so you can study anytime, anywhere
  • Vignette-based practice for Level 2 with integrated topics
  • Constructed-response (essay) support for Level 3 with scoring guidance and sample answers

Review Video Lectures from Anywhere

Carry expert-led lectures wherever you go. Swap social media scrolling for a bite-sized study session. Review a video in the back of a rideshare or during your lunch break. Watch at your own pace — pause, speed up, and rewind — anytime, anywhere.

Try CFA Video Lectures

Review Video Lectures from Anywhere

This is an example of UWorld CFA review video lectures, which provide essential information to comprehend complex topics.

Get Exam-Ready with Exam-Level Questions

UWorld QBank interface showing tutor and timed mode, and subject options.

Get Exam-Ready with Exam-Level Questions

Access CFA practice questions written by our dedicated team of charterholders to meet or exceed exam-level difficulty. Each question is routinely updated to reflect the current exam format and CFA Institute learning outcome statements.

Try CFA Sample Questions

Assess Progress with Mock Exams

Our extensive library of exam-like practice questions meticulously replicates every detail of the exam day experience — interface, question format, difficulty level, number of questions, time constraints, and topic weighting.

Try CFA Mock Exams

Assess Progress with Mock Exams

UWorld CFA mock exam interface

Identify Your Knowledge Gaps

UWorld performance analytics interface.

Identify Your Knowledge Gaps

Identify knowledge gaps with advanced performance analytics so you don’t waste time studying what you already know. Track your progress by subject and topic, compare your results with peers, and feel confident going into the exam

CFA Study Guides

Comprehensive CFA study guides offering simplified topic reviews, practical examples, and exam-aligned practice questions.

Try CFA Study Guides

CFA Study Guides

Printed and digital CFA study guides featuring topic summaries and exam practice materials.

Expert MasterClass

CFA student engaged in MasterClass session with detailed slides and instructor guidance visible on screen.

Expert MasterClass

Weekly deep dives into the most testable CFA topics, combining expert instruction, real-time strategies, and structured problem-solving sessions to build exam confidence.

Try CFA MasterClass

Accelerate BootCamp

An intensive 2-day review designed to sharpen exam-day performance through strategic problem-solving, high-impact practice, and expert-led content breakdowns.

Try CFA BootCamp

Accelerate BootCamp

Group of candidates online participating in a 2-day Accelerate BootCamp for CFA exam prep.

ExpertConnect

CFA candidate asking questions during a live ExpertConnect Q&A session.

ExpertConnect

Small-group live Q&A sessions in the final weeks before the CFA exam, offering direct access to CFA experts for last-minute clarifications and personalized support.

Try CFA ExpertConnect

Realistic CFAI-Style Questions

Train for the real exam, not just a simulation. UWorld’s QBank is engineered to mirror the difficulty, structure, and tone of actual CFA exam questions. You’ll practice how you’ll be tested with layered logic, ethical gray areas, and calculation traps that help you build confidence under pressure.

Realistic CFAI-Style Questions

A UWorld CFA mock exam replicating the real CFA exam's Prometric interface

Visual, Concept-First Explanations

UWorld's Dynamic Study Planner assignment calendar shows assignments by day, week, and month.

Visual, Concept-First Explanations

Clear visuals beat dense text every time. Instead of long-winded text blocks, UWorld breaks down concepts using charts, graphs, and logic maps, which is perfect for visual learners and busy professionals who need to grasp rigid material fast.

Final Thoughts

The CFA exam isn’t just a test of knowledge; it’s a test of how well you apply it under pressure. The right QBank turns passive reading into purposeful practice and gives you the tools to adapt, review, and improve with every session.

Whether you're starting with foundational concepts at Level 1, decoding vignettes at Level 2, or structuring essays at Level 3, UWorld offers a QBank that evolves with your needs. With exam-level questions, visual explanations, and mobile-friendly personalization, it's built not just to prepare you, but to give you an edge.

In a crowded market of CFA prep tools, smart candidates aren’t just choosing more, they're choosing better. And in 2025, better looks a lot like UWorld.

UWorld in Their Words: CFA Student Reviews

Try Our QBanks helps you pass the CFA exams!

Leave nothing to chance and be your best. Take our proven approach for passing results with our CFA review products.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

UWorld is widely considered the best CFA QBank for Level 1 beginners thanks to its 2,400+ CFAI-style questions, detailed explanations, and intuitive visuals. It’s designed to simplify complex topics and improve long-term retention using active recall and guided rationales. Kaplan Schweser’s QBank+ is another solid choice for those who prefer a structured, topic-by-topic approach.
Yes, UWorld’s CFA QBanks are updated annually by a team of CFA charterholders to fully align with the latest CFA curriculum. For 2025, all Learning Outcome Statements (LOS) across Levels 1, 2, and 3 are covered in detail. The updates also reflect changes in exam format, topic weightings, and candidate feedback from recent sittings.
UWorld offers 1,800 high-quality vignette-style questions with Prometric-style mocks and advanced performance analytics, making it ideal for candidates who want realistic exam simulation. AnalystPrep provides a larger volume of questions, but lacks the same depth in explanations, adaptive tools, and integration between questions and concepts. For targeted learning and efficient review, UWorld generally provides a more structured experience.
Both UWorld and Kaplan Schweser offer strong CFA QBank prep, but they cater to different learning styles. Kaplan is well-known for its structured review system and comprehensive study notes, making it a solid choice for candidates who prefer a more traditional, text-heavy approach. UWorld, on the other hand, focuses on active learning with exam-level questions, visual explanations, and smart analytics.
No, the CFA Practice Pack alone may not be enough for full Level 3 preparation, especially for the constructed-response section. With only about 600 questions and limited essay support, it serves better as a supplemental resource. UWorld’s Level 3 QBank includes over 1,500 questions – many with essay prompts, scoring rubrics, and structured feedback – which make it a more complete and exam-relevant tool.
Yes, UWorld’s QBanks are worth the investment if you’re serious about passing. At $299 per level, they provide exam-level practice, expert-written explanations, adaptive quizzes, and analytics that free resources simply don’t offer. Free question banks may lack depth, structure, and coverage – especially when preparing for CFA Level 2 and Level 3 exams.
UWorld is widely recognized as the best CFA QBank for beginners due to its accessible explanations, user-friendly platform, and active recall tools like auto-generated flashcards and spaced repetition. It helps build confidence from day one, particularly for candidates without a finance background or those returning to study after a break.
Yes, both UWorld and the official CFAI QBank closely reflect the real exam. However, UWorld goes further by offering more in-depth explanations, visual aids, and adaptive features that improve both understanding and retention. For a full exam simulation experience – especially under timed conditions – UWorld provides a more test-like interface and workflow.
No, relying solely on a QBank is not recommended for most candidates. While a high-quality CFA QBank is essential for active practice, combining it with video lectures, summary notes, and formula sheets significantly improves your chances. A blended approach ensures you understand the “why” behind each topic and reinforces learning from multiple angles.
Most experts recommend solving between 2,000 and 3,000 practice questions before exam day. This should include at least 2–3 full-length mock exams under timed conditions. UWorld offers enough volume and variety to meet this benchmark while also providing feedback and review tools to make your practice more efficient.
UWorld stands out because it’s built on learning science, not just test simulation. Every question is paired with step-by-step rationales, visuals, and layered explanations that go beyond the “what” to teach the “why.” Features like smart flashcards, personalized quiz builders, and performance analytics help candidates study actively and retain more in less time.
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