Is Schweser Enough for CFA Level 1?: Preparing Without Finance Background

Is Schweser Enough for CFA Level 1?

Phew! Just six months to clear the CFA Level 1 exam. With no prior knowledge in finance, can you rely solely on Schweser notes to pass?

The answer is absolutely yes, based on personal experience. I used Schweser notes and made it through the exam within a similarly short timeframe – 4.5 months. Watching IFT (Institute of Finance and Technology) videos also proved incredibly beneficial. The professors acquainted us with the concepts following the exact CFA curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive understanding.

Focus on Revision and Mocks Post Completing the Syllabus

The key to success lies in thorough revision and practice. Once you have completed the syllabus, dedicate time to revising the materials and taking practice exams. This will help solidify your understanding and improve your problem-solving skills.

Basics of Accounting and CFA Level 1 Preparation

Given the limited time, having a solid foundation in accounting basics is essential. I strongly recommend watching my videos on income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow basics. These will provide you with a solid grounding in finance.

Additionally, you can access some of my CFA Level 1 demo lectures on YouTube to gain a deeper understanding of the exam topics. These resources will not only give you a preview of the exam questions but also clarify any doubts and build confidence.

Are Schweser Notes Sufficient Alone?

Digging deeper, the experience of another aspirant affirms the adequacy of Schweser notes. They passed the Level 1 exam with relative ease by using Schweser notes along with the QBank (Question Bank) materials. However, this strategy might not be the best approach for Level 2 preparation.

Profile-Dependent Strategy

Ultimately, your success depends on your background. If you have prior exposure to finance or related fields, Schweser notes and some supplementary effort should suffice. For those who lack this background, additional coaching might be necessary.

Additional Tips and Resources

Remember, CFA Level 1 is all about understanding the basics. Just make sure you get a solid grasp of the concepts, irrespective of the method you choose. Utilize online resources, forums, and study groups to enhance your learning experience.

Best of luck with your preparation. Success is within reach!