How to Become a CFA in just 18 months may sound ambitious, but it’s possible. Passing all three CFA exams and meeting the work experience requirements within this time frame requires effective planning, time management, and strong commitment. This blog breaks down the CFA course structure and explains why this accelerated path is achievable, offering practical tips to help you succeed.
The Chartered Financial Analyst is an internationally recognised designation and a much-coveted credential among asset managers and finance professionals alike. The CFA Institute administers this demanding course of study in developing skills in portfolio management, investment analysis, financial reporting, and ethics.
Passing three levels of exams and satisfying professional work experience requirements completes the CFA course. Typically taking 3–4 years to finish the CFA program is feasible for most candidates, but for some motivated and thoughtful ones, it can be achieved in 18 months. Here in this article, we are going to walk through how to become a CFA in this expedited time frame without affecting performance.
Understanding the CFA Program Structure
Overview of CFA Exam Levels
The CFA program is structured in three increasingly demanding levels:
- Level I focuses on the tools and inputs of investment valuation, including quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting, and ethics.
- Level II focuses on asset valuation and the use of financial tools in practical situations through item-set questions.
- Level III is an emphasis on both wealth planning and portfolio management. It demands synthesis of knowledge gained in earlier levels to make professional decisions.
Every step has to be completed in succession and is tested over a broad scope of subjects. To be successful, one must grasp how to become a CFA and how each step relies on the last.
Typical Duration to Complete the CFA Program
The average time to study for a CFA course duration is approximately 3.5 to 4 years. The majority of candidates only take a single level in a year due to time limits and work-life balance. The time frame can be shortened considerably by availing oneself of the flexible exam calendar of the CFA Institute. That is where the potential to finish a CFA in 18 months enters into the scene.
Is It Possible to Complete the CFA Program in 18 Months?
Exam Scheduling and Timeline Considerations
Yes, but only with meticulous planning. Here’s how to become a CFA and how a typical 18-month CFA path might look:
- Level I: February or May (Year 1)
- Level II: August (Year 1)
- Level III: May (Year 2)
This option enables you to sit for all three exams in five exam windows. It is a demanding but achievable timeframe, particularly if you have a good academic record or finance experience.
In order to finish the CFA in 18 months, you will have to pass each exam on the first try, keep a rigorous study calendar, and potentially start to build your qualifying work experience at the same time.
Strategies for Accelerating Your CFA Journey
Effective Study Plans and Time Management
Your most precious asset is time. To utilise it to best effect:
- Spend 15-20 hours a week for 4-6 months at each level, a total of about 300-350 hours of study.
- Divide your plan into three phases: learning, revision, and practice.
- Stick to weekly and monthly targets through a study calendar.
- Don’t procrastinate. Skipping even a week will put you behind by a considerable margin in an 18-month timeline.
Studying every day and dedicating weekends to reviewing and practicing is how you position yourself to pass well.
Leveraging Study Resources and Prep Courses
Utilising appropriate resources is essential to finish the CFA course in a shorter time:
- Start with the official CFA syllabus featuring end-of-chapter questions and practice exams.
- Supplement with third-party prep providers such as Schweser, Wiley, or sell Education for concise notes and mock exams.
- Utilise mobile apps or flashcards for revision on the move.
- Participate in online forums or study groups to get motivated and assisted on tough subjects.
Utilising effective resources also helps save time and optimise the quality of preparation.
Balancing Work, Life, and CFA Studies
The most difficult task of an 18-month CFA journey is to keep a healthy balance. Below are some tips for this.
- Prioritise your schedule. Choose study hours where you are most alert like early mornings or evenings.
- Limit distractions. Inform friends and family about your study goals to avoid interruptions.
- Take care of your health. A healthy diet, exercise, and sleep are crucial for optimal brain performance.
- Set milestones. Reward yourself when you complete study targets to stay motivated.
The majority of candidates who are successful in passing the CFA in 18 months work on their preparation like a full-time job.
Curious About How to Become a CFA?
Challenges and Considerations
Understanding the Intensity and Commitment Required
Completing CFA in 18 months is not for everybody. It requires:
- More than 900 hours of study in 1.5 years.
- Forgetting about social life, vacations, and carefree weekends.
- Remaining mentally and physically resilient in times of stress.
The intensity of this schedule are one of the reasons most candidates take a multi-year approach to taking the exams. That said, if you’re laser-focused, the payoffs i.e., a superior CFA salary and accelerated career opportunities after CFA can be well worth it.
Potential Risks of an Accelerated Study Plan
Following the CFA in 18 months also entails certain risks:
- Higher chance of burnout. Cramming too much can affect your retention and mental health.
- No margin for error. Failing even one level can derail your entire timeline.
- Surface-level understanding. Speeding through content might reduce deep comprehension, especially at Levels II and III.
You need to know these risks in advance. A realistic review of your support system and calendar is critical.
Career and Salary Benefits of Earning Your CFA Charter Faster
You can gain the career advantages in a shorter timeframe by completing your CFA course. The average CFA salary in India is ₹6 to ₹12 lakhs in early-career roles, with ample scope for growth when one gains experience and acquires the charter.
The average CFA salary around the world ranges between $70,000 and $150,000 a year, varying by location, position, and experience. Top career opportunities after CFA include positions like equity research analyst, portfolio manager, investment banker, and risk analyst.
Finishing the CFA in 18 months provides a job market advantage in interviews and a better chance to move into high-growth positions sooner.
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Conclusion: Is the 18-Month Timeline Right for You?
CFA in 18 months is very feasible but only for someone who is very committed, very disciplined, and well-organised. If you have a finance or accounting background, are able to spend 15–20 hours a week on studies, and are capable of passing all exams in the first sitting, this timeframe may be advantageous for you.Â
Nonetheless, CFA exams are demanding, and you have to balance the CFA course duration of 18 months against burnout or reduced retention. Approach it strategically, if you’re confident about discipline and time management, fast-track CFA might be what kick-starts career progress and a more powerful CFA salary path.Â
FAQs on How To Become a CFA
What is the minimum time required to complete all three levels of the CFA exams?
The least time possible is 18 months, provided you go through each level consecutively and take exams back to back without any delays.Â
How many study hours are recommended per week to achieve the CFA charter in 18 months?
You should dedicate at least 15–20 hours weekly per level, totaling around 300–350 hours per exam.Â
What are the pass rates for each level of the CFA exam?
Based on recent data, Level I pass rates are approximately 42%, Level II around 44%, and Level III around 48%. They can and likely will vary by testing window.
Can work experience be accumulated concurrently while studying for the CFA exams?
Yes, it is possible to gain the necessary 4,000 hours of appropriate work experience prior to, concurrently with, or following CFA exams. Most candidates gain experience while studying.
