Can I use a calculator on CFA Level 1?

Yes, you must use a calculator for the CFA Level 1 exam, but only two models are allowed: the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including Professional) or the Hewlett Packard 12C (including Platinum). You need to bring your own, practice extensively with it, and understand its functions, as complex calculations in quant-heavy sections make it essential for passing.

Is a calculator allowed in CFA level 1?

The CFA Institute permits only two calculators during the exam: the Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including the BA II Plus Professional) and the Hewlett Packard 12C (including the Platinum edition). Mastery of your chosen calculator can save valuable time and reduce errors on exam day.

Which calculator do you need for CFA level 1?

Only two calculator models are authorized for use during CFA® Program exams: Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including BA II Plus Professional) Hewlett Packard 12C (including the HP 12C Platinum, 12C Platinum 25th anniversary edition, 12C 30th anniversary edition, and HP 12C Prestige)

Is 65% enough to pass CFA level 1?

A 65% score on CFA Level 1 is borderline and might pass, but it's risky, as the Minimum Passing Score (MPS) varies by exam, often hovering around 70%, though sometimes dipping lower (like 62-65%) when exams are harder; aiming for 70% or higher on mocks gives you a safer buffer, acknowledging that a 65% could pass if the exam was particularly difficult, but it's not a guaranteed pass. 

What to carry for the CFA level 1 exam?

Items to bring

• Valid international travel passport. Learn more about exam ID requirements.
• Approved calculator. Texas Instruments BA II Plus (including BA II Plus Professional), or. ...
• Face mask. ...
• Additional layers of clothing. ...
• Water. ...
• Additional personal care items.

How to use the Financial Calculator for the CFA exams - Texas Instruments BA II Plus

Is 67% enough to pass CFA?

A 67% score is generally considered strong and likely enough to pass a CFA exam, especially if you have strong scores in key weighted topics, but it's not a guarantee as the Minimum Passing Score (MPS) varies by exam difficulty, with experts recommending aiming for 69% or higher (e.g., 70%+) for a comfortable pass on Level 1 and Level 2 to be safe. While 67% is above the historical average for some levels (like Level 2's 66% average), the MPS can fluctuate, so focus on strong performance across all areas, especially weighted ones like Fixed Income or Ethics. 

Can I bring two calculators to the CFA exam?

Can You Bring Two Calculators to the CFA Exam? Yes, you can bring a backup calculator if you'd like, as long as it's one of the approved models. For all calculators you bring, you need to leave the calculator manuals at home.

Is CFA harder than a master's degree?

While both CFA and a master's are equally challenging, the only differences come in when CFA is said to be more rigorous due to its specialised contents and demanding exam structure.

What topics are hardest on Level 1?

In-Depth Breakdown of the Most Difficult CFA Level 1 Topics & How to Tackle Them

• Financial Reporting & Analysis (FRA) (15-20% weight)
• Fixed Income (10-12% weight)
• Ethics (15-20% weight)
• Quantitative Methods (8-12% weight)
• Derivatives (5-8% weight)
• Portfolio Management (5-8% weight)

Is CFA harder than ACCA?

- Is ACCA more difficult than CFA? No, the CFA qualification tends to be considered slightly more difficult than ACCA - but this is to some extent a subjective matter, differing from person to person. Many people don't make it through the three levels of CFA because of the time required to finish the course.

How math heavy is CFA level 1?

However, let's put things into perspective: the CFA Level 1 exam is not a math test. The CFA Institute has made it clear that calculations will account for no more than 30% of the questions on the exam. To put it in numbers, that's a maximum of 54 out of the 180 questions.

Is Casio FX 83 or 85 better?

The fx-83GT CW and fx-85GT CW are our entry-level scientific calculators and are identical in functionality, the only difference being that the latter offers solar power.

Can I use a TI-84 as a financial calculator?

The TI 84 Plus is an easy to use financial calculator which will serve you well in all finance courses. This tutorial will demonstrate how to use the financial functions to handle time value of money problems and make financial math easy.

Is 4 months enough for CFA level 1?

No, studying for any CFA exam in less than 6 months will not give you enough time to adequately prepare unless you have a relevant background in the curriculum. According to CFA Institute, candidates study on average 348 hours for the Level I exam, 364 hours for the Level II exam, and 365 hours for the Level III exam.

What happens if you fail the CFA exam 6 times?

Each candidate is allowed up to six total attempts per exam level. Candidates who are unsuccessful after six attempts at the same level are no longer eligible to register —this applies to attempts under both existing and newly created accounts.

Is CFA level 1 harder than CA?

Is CFA tougher than CA? A: The CFA and CA (Chartered Accountant) qualifications have different focuses and challenges. While both are demanding, many find CA to be more rigorous due to its extensive practical training and exams.

Is 60% enough to pass CFA level 1?

Yes, you can potentially pass CFA Level 1 with a 60% score, as the CFA Institute doesn't have a fixed percentage; the Minimum Passing Score (MPS) varies, sometimes allowing a pass around 60-65% when exams are tough, while other times requiring 70%+ for an easier exam, so aiming higher (68-70%+) is safer, but 60% isn't an automatic fail. 

Is 75% an A in a level?

Understanding Grade Boundaries for Popular A Level Subjects

For example, maths grade boundaries usually place an A grade around 70–75% of the total marks, with an A* closer to 85–90%.

Does JP Morgan hire CFA level 1?

For investment banks like JPMorgan or Morgan Stanley, CFA charterholders can leverage analytical prowess, particularly in client-facing positions where technical precision matters. In firms like EY and PwC, CFA can make professionals stand out in valuation, due diligence, and merger advisory engagements.

Do Big 4 accept ACCA?

All Big 4 accountancy firms – Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG – are active recruiters of ACCA-affiliated accountants. Choice often depends on your interest area: audit, consulting, tax, or advisory.

Is 70 enough to pass CFA level 1?

The CFA Level 1 passing score is not fixed every year, but it usually stays between 65% and 70%. CFA Institute does not publish an official cut-off, but this range is considered the minimum benchmark to pass.

Can I bring a cheat sheet to CFA?

Derivatives, Alternative Investments, and Portfolio Management round out the Level I topics. You won't be able to bring the sheet on exam day, but it's an incredibly valuable resource during your season of preparation, and UWorld's Formula Sheet is the best you'll find. Get access to our Level I CFA Formula Sheets now.

Can you chew gum in the CFA exam?

Water in a clear glass is allowed during testing; however, eating, smoking (including electronic cigarettes,) and chewing gum are prohibited.