CFA Level 1 Exam Dates and Cost Registration Fees in India

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification, offered by the CFA Institute, is a globally recognized credential for finance professionals. It consists of three levels—Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3—all of which must be cleared to earn the certification.

Level 1 is often considered the most challenging due to its vast syllabus and conceptual depth.

This blog covers the current CFA Level 1 exam windows, registration deadlines and fees (updated November 2026) to help you plan your CFA journey effectively.

CFA Examination Fee Structure In India

The CFA Institute uses a two-tiered fee structure, confirmed directly from its official dates & fees tool:

Exam Registration Fees & Details

Early Registration Fee: USD 1,140 for Level I and Level II (USD 1,240 for Level III)

• Available until the early registration deadline for that exam window (typically ~4 months before the exam).

Standard Registration Fee: USD 1,490 for Level I and Level II (USD 1,590 for Level III)

• Available until registration closes for that window — the final chance to register.

One-time enrollment fee: no longer charged. CFA Institute eliminated the separate USD 350 enrollment fee effective 29 April 2025, folding the cost into the higher registration fees above — so don't budget for both.

Rescheduling fee: USD 250 if you need to move your exam date within the same window.

These fees cover exam access only — study materials and prep courses (like TWSS's own CFA Level 1 coaching) are priced separately.

CFA Level 1 Examination Dates

CFA Level I is offered four times a year — February, May, August and November. Each window has its own registration-opens date, an early-registration deadline, a standard registration deadline, and the actual exam dates — these shift every cycle, so always confirm on CFA Institute's official tool before registering. As of November 2026, the confirmed upcoming cycle is:

(Exact dates for the February, May, August and November 2027 windows had not all been published by CFA Institute as of this update — check the link above for the current schedule before you register.)

Registration Fees and Deadlines

cfa registration timeline

We encourage candidates to register early for the CFA exam to save significantly on fees. Early registration provides a $350 discount, reducing the fee to $1,140 instead of $1,490 for standard registration. Planning ahead not only helps with budgeting but also secures your exam slot at a lower cost.

Please note that once both registration periods have closed, candidates will be unable to register for that particular exam window. To ensure timely progression toward your CFA charter, please mark these important 2025 registration deadlines:

Exam Registration Deadlines & Fees (2025)

February 2025 Exam

• Early Registration Deadline: September 12, 2024 ($900 / ₹74,500)

• Standard Registration Deadline: November 7, 2024 ($1,200 / ₹99,300)

May 2025 Exam

• Early Registration Deadline: December 5, 2024 ($900 / ₹74,500)

• Standard Registration Deadline: February 7, 2025 ($1,200 / ₹99,300)

August 2025 Exam

• Early Registration Deadline: March 7, 2025 ($900 / ₹74,500)

• Standard Registration Deadline: May 9, 2025 ($1,200 / ₹99,300)

November 2025 Exam

• Early Registration Deadline: June 6, 2025 ($900 / ₹74,500)

• Standard Registration Deadline: August 8, 2025 ($1,200 / ₹99,300)

Missing these registration deadlines may delay your professional advancement and certification timeline. We strongly recommend adding these dates to your calendar and planning accordingly to secure your preferred exam date and maximize your savings.

CFA Exam Deferrals, Rescheduling, and Cancellations: Everything You Need to Know

Life happens, and sometimes you need to adjust your CFA exam schedule. Here’s what you should know:

Deferring Your CFA Exam

You can defer your exam to a later window for a $399 fee, but only in cases of:

• Illness

• Family emergencies

• Military service

Deferrals must be requested before the exam window begins.

Rescheduling Your CFA Exam

If you need to change your test date within the same exam window, you can reschedule for $250.

• Must be done at least 48 hours before your test time.

Canceling Your CFA Exam

• No refunds unless in extreme cases.

• CFA Institute has strict cancellation policies, so plan carefully before registering.

Plan wisely to avoid extra fees and stress!

CFA Exam Structure and Format: What to Expect on Exam Day

Understanding the CFA exam format helps you prepare better. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Exam Sessions & Timing

• The CFA Level 1 exam has two sessions: morning and afternoon.

• Each session lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Question Format

• The exam has 180 multiple-choice questions.

• Questions are equally divided between both sessions.

Topics Covered

• Ethical and Professional Standards

• Financial Reporting and Analysis

• Quantitative Methods

• Portfolio Management

Exam Mode & Location

• The CFA exam is computer-based.

• Candidates take it at designated CFA exam centers.

• Arrive early to avoid last-minute stress.

Conclusion

With the details of the CFA Level 1 exam dates, candidates know the exact amount of time that they have for preparations. Make sure you mark the important dates for registration and rescheduling so you don’t miss any deadlines.

The WallStreet School offers CFA online course and classroom bootcamp coaching for the CFA Level 1 exam. With these courses, ensure top-notch preparation for the CFA Level 1 exam and get ahead in your finance career!

Visit The WallStreet School or contact us via email or phone (+91-9953729651) for more details.

FAQs

How difficult is the CFA Level 1 exam?

The CFA Level 1 examination is quite challenging. However, with clarity in the concepts of the various subjects, practice and hard work, you can clear CFA Level 1.

How many times is the CFA Level 1 exam held in a year in India?

CFA Level 1 exams are conducted four times a year in India in February, May, August and November. If you plan to appear for the exams, follow the last dates for enrolment, registration, scheduling, and rescheduling.

What is the passing score for the CFA Level 1 exam?

The CFA Institute sets the minimum passing score for the CFA Level 1 exam not higher than 70%. Therefore, the highest score bracket is 70-100% for passing a particular topic.

What are the CFA Level 1 fees in India?

Early registration costs USD 1,140 (≈₹96,000 approx.), while standard registration costs USD 1,490 (≈₹1,25,000 approx.).

How much does the CFA course cost in total?

The CFA course fees depend on how early you register for each level. On average, the entire CFA program, from Level 1 to Level 3, costs between USD 3,520 and USD 4,570.

What is included in the CFA registration fee?

CFA Institute no longer charges a separate one-time enrollment fee — it was discontinued in April 2025 and folded into the registration fee above.

Are there any additional costs beyond CFA fees in India?

Yes, beyond the CFA fees in India, candidates may need to budget for study materials, review courses, and potential travel expenses if they need to travel to an exam center.

Is there a difference in CFA course fees in India and other countries?

No, the CFA fees are the same all over the world and so in India. Fees are quoted in USD, and currency conversion depends on the prevailing exchange rate.

How much is the CFA Level 1 cost, including all registration fees?

The CFA Level 1 cost includes the exam fee alone, which ranges from USD 1,140 to USD 1,490, depending on when you register. There's no longer a separate enrollment fee.

Can CFA Level 1 fees be refunded if I cannot attend the exam?

No, the registration fees for a CFA Level 1 exam are not refundable. However, CFA Institute allows for rescheduling at an additional fee, subject to availability and specific policies.