Do you want a career in finance and investment management? Chartered financial analyst (CFA) designation globally recognized as gold standard for finance professionals. Having a CFA as a qualification will help you get your career a golden start. CFA exam renowed for comprehensive coverage of financial concepts, ethics, economics and more. Students from all over the world apply for this qualification. Understand CFA pattern which is different than all the entrance exam you have given. Knowing CFA exam pattern which give you a view which will be effective for your preparation.
CFA institute continuously updates the program to reflect real world financial challenges. This helps you have a practical view and have skills that are relevant in the industry. CFA is computer based test. They have their own guidelines and pattern. Whether you are an aspiring financial analyst, Investment Banker, portfolio manager looking forward to a great career in finance in 2025. This blog will provide you answers to all your questions about exam pattern, format and what will lead you to get your best possible result.
CFA exam pattern
CFA exam pattern 2026 designed to evaluate knowledge, analytical abilities, and application of topics which you will be studying. The global recognition credential offered by CFA institute is computer based exam.
CFA level 1’s exam pattern is the foundational stage, which includes basic tools and concepts of investment valuation, portfolio management, ethical and professional standards, and more. Level 1 cover areas like ethics, quantitative methods, economics, portfolio management and much more. Computer based examination with Multiple choice questions which will have 3 options. All questions will be weighted equally. There is not negative marking therefore solve all the given questions. Total CFA level 1 exam consist of 180 MCQ’s. Total duration given is 4 hours and 30min. It is important to attempt every question.
CFA level 2’s exam pattern consist more complexity, focusing on the application and analysis of concepts through item set based questions. There are total 88 MCQ’s in level 2 CFA. The MCQ’s divided in two sessions. Total time provided is 4 hours and 24 minutes. Detailed case studies which you need to solve, apply concepts and knowledge which is relevant in real world. Questions are based on topics like ethics and portfolio management, equity investments and financial reporting.
CFA level 3 consist of most advanced questions, with integration of all previous concepts. These are essay sets. Two sessions where the time frame of each session is 2 hour 12 min. 30-35% of the exam includes portfolio management, private wealth and private markets. More core curriculum includes asset allocation, ethics and derivatives.
CFA exam
All CFA level exams are computer based. Conducted in specific CFA centers. There is not penalty for wrong answers. Total 3 times exam conducted in a year. Make sure to keep a check. This structured progression ensures that successful candidates not only grasp theoretical knowledge but also develop the critical reasoning and practical skills essential for today’s investment professionals.
CFA level 1 exam pattern
Exam Format & Structure
CFA level 1 exam consists of 180 MCQs divided into 2 sessions, each of 2 hour 15 minutes. There are 90 questions per session with an optional break scheduled in between the sessions. The exam is entirely computer based at the centers. MCQs offer 3 answers option A,B,C. There is not negative marking for incorrect answers. My suggestion will be to attempt all questions.
Breakdown and Topics covered
Session 1
- Ethics & Professional standards
- Economics
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Quantitative Methods
Session 2
- Corporate Issuers
- Equity Investments
- Fixed Income
- Derivatives
- Alternative Investments
- Portfolio Management
CFA level 1 preparation Tip
Complete the recommended 300 hours of study for level 1. Plus solve mock tests, take help get into coaching. Focus on the core topics more. Draw out your weakness and work on them. Level 1 is the first time you will experience the exam. Prepare as thoroughly.
CFA level 2 exam pattern
CFA level consist of case study format to enable deep understanding of financial concepts in real-world. Exam have 88 MCQ’s grouped into 22 item sets. Each case is indetail followed by 4-6 related questions that require careful analysis. Each question is worth three points and no negative marking.
Time and session structure
- Duration: 4 hours 24 minutes
- Sessions: AM and PM session. each lasting for 2 hour 12 minutes
- Each session: 11 item sets, 44 questions per session
- Optional break between two sessions
- Each vignette states topics area and point value
- Computer based testing in authorized centers
Topic coverage
Each session contains a mix, but commonly covered topics include:
- Ethics and Professional Standards
- Quantitative Methods
- Economics
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Corporate Issuers
- Equity Investments
- Fixed Income
- Derivatives
- Alternative Investments
- Portfolio Management
Tips:
Level 2 is considered more challenging than Level 1 dude to complex study format. Each questions is denser than level 1 even though some topics are the same. Practice reading, analyzing finance case studies. Focus topic wise and prep better.
CFA level 3 exam pattern
CFA level 3 has constructive response which is essay style, supported with MCQ questions. This simulates real work application understanding.
- Duration: 4 hour 24 minutes, split into two equal sessions.
- Morning Session (AM): Includes 5 or 6 essay sets ( constructive responses)
- Total 10-12 essay questions across both sessions.
- Each session is worth 12 points (generally)
- Afternoon session: 5-6 items sets in total about 44 multiple choice questions worth 3 points each.
- Each session contains mix 6 item and 5 essay, or 5 item sets and 6 essay sets.
- Across both sessions 11 item sets and 11 essays.
- No negative Marking
New features:
30-35% of the level 3 exam will be based on the “chosen pathway”. Choose your specialization for the exam like portfolio management, private wealth and private markets.
Tips:
- Practice written responses
- Case study comprehension
- Learn to balance your time
CFA exam pattern 2026
| Level | Format & Question Type | Total Questions / Sets | Session Breakdown | Session Duration | Total Exam Time | Notes / Scoring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Multiple-choice questions (MCQ) | 180 MCQs | 2 sessions × 90 questions | 2h 15m each | 4h 30m + optional break | 90s/question, no negative marking |
| II | Vignette-based item sets (MCQ) | 22 item sets = 88 questions | 2 sessions × 11 item sets | 2h 12m each | 4h 24m + optional break | 20 item sets are scored, 2 are trial |
| III | Mixed: essay sets + item sets | 11 essay sets + 11 item sets | 2 sessions (varying mix per session) | 2h 12m each | 4h 24m + optional break | Each set worth 12 pts; 2 unscored |
Extra Instructions
- Before Am session you will be given 15 mins to scroll through the software and solve trial questions.
- Water, pen and paper is provided.
- Carry calculator and passport
- Tick mark the most appropriate answer from the options
Two trial questions in CFA level 2 exam will be placed random. You will be unaware of the questions. Therefore attempt the whole paper.
No independent MCQ in CFA level 3 exam, type your essay answers only after reading the instructions provided
Conclusion
By understanding the CFA exam pattern for all three levels, you can approach your preparation more strategically. Remember, the CFA exams not only test your knowledge but also time management and question strategy. Leverage the format to your advantage practice under exam-like conditions and focus on the weightage of topics. Good luck on your path to becoming a CFA charterholder!
FAQ
What is exam pattern of CFA?
MCQ based exam with AM and PM sessions with a optional 30 min break.
Is CFA level 3 MCQ based?
CFA level 3 includes 11 Essay based and 11 item sets. Each set is worth 12 points.
How many times can i attempt CFA?
You can attempt CFA for 6 times.
Is CFA exam written or MCQ?
CFA level 1 have 180 MCQ’s. Level 2 includes 22 item sets which has 88 questions MCQ. CFA level 3 has11 essay and 11 item sets.
Total duration of CFA exam?
Level 1 duration 4 hour 30 min. Level 2 and 3: 4 hour 24 min.
