November 2024 CFA® Level I Exam Is Almost Here – Are You Ready?

It’s already October, and if you’re preparing for the November 2024 CFA Level 1 exam, there’s no doubt you can feel the pressure building. The exam window is right around the corner, spanning from November 13 to 19, 2024, and time is ticking faster than ever. With just a few weeks to go, now is the moment to take a step back, assess where you stand, and finalize your strategy. Whether you’ve yet to lock in your exam date or are still navigating through those last-minute study plans, there’s no need to panic. We at AnalystPrep are here to make sure you don’t just get through this—you’re going to excel.

The CFA journey, especially at this late stage, can seem overwhelming. There’s a lot to think about: registration deadlines, exam fees, scheduling, rescheduling, and, of course, mastering the material itself. It’s natural to feel like everything is racing toward you at once, but you’re not alone in this. We understand how demanding this process is and that’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

The key to making it through this period is not just about knowing the material but also having a solid grasp of the logistics behind the CFA exam process. This is your chance to ensure that you’re not caught off guard by any important dates or requirements. Whether you’re aiming for early registration savings or just trying to avoid any last-minute fees, understanding these details is crucial to minimizing stress and avoiding any costly mistakes.

So, take a deep breath. This guide will break down everything you need to know—important dates, registration fees, how to schedule your exam, and what to expect on test day. Let’s walk through this together, step by step, ensuring that when you walk into that exam center in November, you feel confident and fully prepared. Ready? Let’s hop in.

When Can You Take Your CFA Level 1 Exam?

The November 2024 Level 1 CFA exam isn’t tied to a single date. Instead, there’s an exam window that runs from November 13 to November 19. You get to choose the exact day that works best for you within this window. This gives you flexibility, but it’s also important to keep in mind that the available dates may vary depending on your chosen test center or your geographic region.

To lock in your preferred date, make sure to self-schedule your exam as soon as possible. Exam slots can fill up, especially in high-demand areas. Double-check your test center’s availability when you’re selecting your exam date to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Key Dates for the November 2024 CFA Exam

Here’s a detailed look at the critical dates surrounding the November 2024 exam:

• Rescheduling Deadline: October 14, 2024
  If something has come up and you need to adjust your exam date or location, you have until October 14 to do so. There’s a $250 rescheduling fee for each change, so make sure it’s worth it. You can reschedule as many times as you want (as long as slots are available), but keep in mind that the fee applies each time.
• Exam Window: November 13–19, 2024
  These are the days when you can take your exam. Remember, the exact dates available to you depend on your test center and location, so check your options when scheduling.
• Results Release: Early January 2025
  After the exam, the waiting game begins. The CFA Institute typically releases results 5–7 weeks after the exam window closes, which means you can expect to hear back around early January 2025. January 7 is a likely release date.

What to Expect on Exam Day

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the exam itself so you know what to expect when you walk into that testing center.

The Level 1 CFA exam consists of two sessions—each 135 minutes long—with a break in between. In total, you’ll answer 180 multiple-choice questions. These questions are spread across four key groups:

1. Ethics
2. Investment Tools
3. Portfolio Management & Analysis
4. Investment Assets

You’ll face topics (i) and (ii) in the first session, while the second session covers topics (iii) and (iv). Within each session, the questions are randomized, but once you complete one session, you can’t go back. However, within each session, you’re free to move between questions.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the topic weights for the 2024 Level 1 CFA exam and the estimated number of questions for each section. These percentages give you an idea of how much emphasis is placed on each subject area, helping you focus your study plan effectively.

Topic Weights and Estimated Number of Questions

• Quantitative Methods: 6–9% (~16 questions)
• Economics: 6–9% (~16 questions)
• Corporate Issuers: 6–9% (~12 questions)
• Financial Statement Analysis: 11–14% (~25 questions)
• Equity Investments: 11–14% (~20 questions)
• Fixed Income: 11–14% (~20 questions)
• Derivatives: 5–8% (~11 questions)
• Alternative Investments: 7–10% (~13 questions)
• Portfolio Management: 8–12% (~14 questions)
• Ethics: 15–20% (~33 questions)

In total, that’s 180 questions across all topics.

Why Rescheduling Matters

Life happens, and sometimes things don’t go according to plan. That’s why the CFA Institute introduced the rescheduling option. While it’s not free, having the option to change your exam date or test center provides flexibility in case you need to adjust your plans.

You might find that when you first schedule your exam, your ideal date or test center isn’t available. But by keeping an eye on seating availability closer to your exam, you might spot an open slot that fits your needs better. Just remember: every time you reschedule, it’ll cost you $250. So, make sure any changes you make are absolutely necessary.

Related Articles You May Find Helpful

• Frequently Asked Questions About CFA Level I Fixed Income: If you’re seeking clarity on the Fixed Income topic area for CFA Level I, this article provides insightful answers to common questions, breaking down complex concepts into manageable chunks.
• 2025 CFA Level I Exam Guide: Get a head start on your CFA journey with this comprehensive guide to the 2025 CFA Level I exam, including key changes, important dates, and preparation tips.
• CFA Level I Alternative Investments Explained: Strengthen your understanding of Alternative Investments with this detailed article that dives deep into one of the crucial topics of the CFA Level I curriculum.
• Topics Covered in the 2025 CFA Level I Exam: Curious about the topics in the 2025 CFA Level I exam? This article walks you through each subject area and what you can expect in terms of difficulty and weight.

Preparing for Your CFA Exam: Tips from AnalystPrep

The clock is ticking, but there’s still time to get yourself in peak exam shape. This last stretch is critical, and how you use it can make or break your performance.

At AnalystPrep, we specialize in helping candidates like you prepare for the CFA exams with confidence. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of your study strategy, here are a few things you can do:

1. Take Mock Exams
   Mock exams are your best friend in these final weeks. They’ll help you assess your knowledge gaps and familiarize you with the exam format. AnalystPrep offers a range of mock exams that simulate real test conditions, helping you improve your time management and build confidence.
2. Review Ethics Thoroughly
   Ethics is a big part of your exam and carries significant weight in the CFA grading process. In fact, a strong performance in Ethics can even help you pass if you’re borderline on other sections. AnalystPrep’s Ethics module is designed to give you a thorough understanding of this tricky subject, ensuring you’re fully prepared.
3. Focus on Weak Areas
   It’s tempting to spend your final study days reviewing topics you already know well, but that’s not the best strategy. Instead, identify your weakest areas and focus on improving those.
4. Simulate Exam Day Conditions
   Try to take a full-length practice exam under the same conditions as the real thing. This means sticking to the time limits, using the same calculator, and working in a quiet environment. The more familiar you are with the process, the less stressful exam day will be.

What Happens After the November Exam?

Assuming all goes well, you’ll get your Level 1 exam results in early January 2025. If you pass, congratulations! You’re eligible to sit for the Level 2 exam as early as May 2025.

But what if things don’t go as planned? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. If you don’t pass the November exam, you’ll be able to retake Level 1 in May 2025, giving you plenty of time to regroup, review, and come back stronger.

The Clock is Ticking – Time to Take Action

With November just around the corner, this is your moment to act. The CFA Level 1 exam isn’t just an academic hurdle; it’s the first major step toward building a successful career in finance. Whether you’re putting the final touches on your study schedule, considering a rescheduling option, or even finding yourself at the very beginning of your revision journey, it’s critical to stay focused on what’s ahead.

As you move into these last few weeks, remember that preparation goes beyond just studying the material. It’s about strategy, timing, and ensuring that you’re aware of every deadline and requirement. Missing an important date could cost you valuable time and money, and at this point in the process, that’s the last thing you want to happen. So, stay sharp. Double-check that your exam is scheduled, confirm your test center, and be mindful of any final opportunities to adjust your plans if needed.

That said, don’t lose sight of the bigger picture—passing the CFA Level 1 is a major achievement. It’s not just about getting through the exam but mastering the knowledge that will form the foundation for the rest of your CFA journey. The topics covered in Level 1, from Ethics to Portfolio Management, will stay with you through Levels 2 and 3 and into your career. So, as you study, think beyond just test day. Every concept you master now will give you an edge in the future.

And remember, AnalystPrep is here for you every step of the way. Our tailored study plans, comprehensive video lessons, and in-depth practice exams are designed to help you build confidence as the exam approaches. If you feel stuck, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. Whether you need help with a tricky concept, want to sharpen your time management skills with mock exams, or simply need reassurance that you’re on the right track, we have the tools to help you succeed.

It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious or uncertain as the exam nears. After all, the CFA is a challenge by design. But those who succeed are the ones who push through that uncertainty and trust their preparation. At this point, you’ve done the heavy lifting, and now it’s about refining your knowledge, filling in any gaps, and making sure you’re exam-ready.

If you’re looking for a last-minute boost, don’t overlook the value of targeted revision. Focus on the areas where you feel least confident—whether it’s Quantitative Methods, Financial Statement Analysis, or Ethics. Our practice exams can help you identify these weak spots and turn them into strengths before exam day. Remember, the CFA Institute has structured the exam to test not just your knowledge but your ability to apply it under pressure. The more prepared you are, the better equipped you’ll be to handle whatever the exam throws at you.

In the end, success in the CFA Level 1 exam is about balance—balancing your study time, managing your stress, and ensuring that you are well-prepared both mentally and practically. With the right mindset and tools at your disposal, you’ll be ready to face the challenge head-on.

So, as the days count down, keep pushing yourself, stay organized, and trust in the work you’ve done. The November exam window is your opportunity to showcase everything you’ve learned, and we’re confident that with the right preparation, you’ll pass with flying colors. And remember, even once the exam is over, we’re still here to support you on your CFA journey. Whether it’s preparing for Level 2 or refining your knowledge for your next career step, AnalystPrep will continue to be your trusted partner.

Good luck, and we’ll see you on the other side of the exam window—fully prepared and ready for success.