Preparing for the CFA exam is not just about hard work – it’s about using the right CFA books, the right strategy, and the right sources. Ask any successful CFA charterholder, and they’ll tell you this:
The right books and your study materials decide how smoothly your preparation goes.
With so many CFA exam books, coaching materials, practice notes and shortcut guides floating around, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming. That’s exactly why I am here to guide you. If you’re planning your CFA journey and want clarity on what to read, what to skip, and which CFA preparation books actually make an impact, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, I’ll break it down for you, step by step, so that you can choose the right CFA books for your preparation and succeed in your charter journey.
Understanding the CFA Program
Most students feel lost when they start their CFA journey – trust me, you’re not the only one. The good news is, once you understand what to study, everything becomes much more manageable.
Before we begin discussing the best CFA books, I think it is necessary to clarify what most students are confused about:
What is CFA? What exactly does it prepare me for?
Knowing what you’re preparing for makes choosing the right study material so much easier.
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA Course) offered by the CFA Institute is a globally respected qualification for anyone who wants to build a serious career in finance. Think of it as the gold standard for roles in:
- Investment banking
- Equity research
- Portfolio and wealth management
- Credit analysis
- Risk management
- Corporate finance
The course is split across three levels, each one testing a different layer of your financial skillset – so choosing the right CFA program books becomes crucial:
| CFA Level | What You Learn |
| Level 1 | The foundation. You cover the basic building blocks – ethics, quantitative methods, financial reporting, and an introduction to investments. |
| Level 2 | This is where things get real. You dive deeper into valuation, complex financial models, and scenario-based applications. |
| Level 3 | Everything comes together with a strong focus on portfolio management and the exam’s unique essay-style (constructed response) questions. |
In simple terms, the CFA doesn’t just teach you finance – it trains you to think like a global investment professional. Not a theory-heavy student, but someone who can actually analyse markets, value businesses, and make real decisions.
Your very first step is choosing the right CFA level books – the ones that help you study smarter, understand tough concepts without feeling lost, and stay genuinely exam-ready from day one. And the journey starts much earlier than most people realise.
Once you see the structure of the CFA Program clearly, the entire journey starts feeling a lot less intimidating. Many students also factor in the CFA course fees early on, since the registration cost changes based on deadlines and exam levels.
Did you know that when you register for the CFA exam, the official CFA Program curriculum (digital books) is included at no additional cost. These are the same books used to create the exam, making them the most accurate source of preparation.
Why the Right CFA Books Make All the Difference
Before choosing your study materials, it helps to understand the key CFA course details, including its three-level structure, exam pattern, and preparation requirements. The CFA course curriculum is dense, technical, and extremely detail-oriented. It’s designed to test not just what you know, but how well you can apply that knowledge across real-world finance scenarios. You dive deep into areas like:
- Portfolio management
- Ethics
- Valuation
- Derivatives
- Fixed income
- Quantitative methods and much more.
If you’ve ever stared at a shelf of CFA books and wondered which ones are actually useful, you’re not alone. Every student reaches a point where the material feels too much. That’s usually a sign that you need better, clearer study resources. Because the CFA course is a gateway to global finance careers, choosing the right books early can shape how smoothly your journey progresses.
With so many moving parts, simply covering the syllabus isn’t enough. You need CFA-recommended books that break down complex concepts, build your confidence topic by topic, and reflect the actual exam style. Good material doesn’t just help you understand the content – it helps you think as the exam expects.
That’s exactly why most successful candidates follow a blend of official CFA Institute books combined with a trusted third-party resource. And trust me, the CFA curriculum looks scarier than it actually is – the right books make all the difference. A strong start in CFA Level 1 often makes the entire CFA journey much more manageable.
Did you know? While digital books are free with registration, candidates can also purchase printed CFA Program books for an additional fee. These are optional and contain the same content as the digital version.
CFA Books You Absolutely Need for Exam Success
Before diving into the details, it’s important to remember one thing: not all CFA books are created equal. Some help you build strong concepts, some help you revise faster, and some simply make the entire curriculum feel less overwhelming.
Let’s look at the CFA course books that consistently work for students – year after year.
Official CFA Institute Books – The Official Study Material
These are the CFA official books – the most accurate, most detailed, and completely aligned with the exam. Why you need them:
- Directly written by the CFA Institute.
- Perfect for conceptual mastery.
- Every Learning Outcome Statement (LOS) is covered.
- Questions closely match real exam difficulty.
If you’re new to finance or someone who prefers deep, structured learning, these CFA Institute books are your best friend.
Schweser Notes – The Most Popular CFA Study Books
If you’ve spoken to even one CFA aspirant, you’ve heard of Schweser.
Why everyone prefers Schweser Notes:
- Shorter and easier to digest.
- Ideal for revision.
- Good for quick learning and time-pressed candidates.
- Contains formula sheets, summaries, and practice questions.
Schweser is not a replacement for the CFA official books – but it’s the fastest way to revise and retain the syllabus.
Wiley CFA Books – Great for Concept Clarity
Wiley CFA books are a strong middle ground between detailed reading and exam-focused preparation.
Why students prefer Wiley:
- Clear explanations.
- Simple examples.
- Great for tricky areas like derivatives and fixed income.
- High-quality question bank.
If you feel the curriculum is too heavy and Schweser is too light, Wiley strikes the perfect balance.
Bloomberg CFA Books – Modern, Data-Driven Prep
Bloomberg has entered the CFA space with books and online prep tools that feel very modern compared to traditional materials. Why Bloomberg stands out:
- Clean layout and simple explanations.
- Focused on application.
- Excellent adaptive practice questions.
If you prefer digital-first learning, Bloomberg CFA books can be a smart choice.
CFA Level-wise Books You Should Focus On
Once you go through the CFA course syllabus, you’ll notice how each level builds on different skills – from fundamentals to valuation and portfolio management. Each level of the CFA Program needs a slightly different strategy:
| CFA Level | Best For | Recommended Mix |
| CFA Level 1 Books | Foundation building, understanding broad finance concepts, and practising MCQs. | CFA Institute + Schweser |
| CFA Level 2 Books | Complex valuation, case-study-style questions. | CFA Institute + Wiley or Schweser |
| CFA Level 3 Books | Portfolio management, constructed responses for essay questions. | CFA Institute + Schweser (for revision) |
Whichever level you’re on, a mix of CFA official books with one high-quality study guide usually works best. Once you understand what each level requires and choose the right study resources, it’s also helpful to know the kind of career and earning potential the CFA can lead to. The CFA salary in India is quite competitive, especially for roles in equity research, portfolio management, and investment banking.
Comprehensive Study Material – Approved Prep Provider
Imarticus Learning offers structured, exam-focused CFA prep material designed to simplify your learning.
Why students choose Imarticus study material:
- Updated and aligned with the latest CFA curriculum.
- Concept-driven explanations for easier understanding.
- Handy revision notes and summaries.
- Mock tests that mirror real CFA exam difficulty.
- Guidance from CFA charterholders and industry experts.
If you want a guided, well-structured approach alongside your CFA official books, the Imarticus study material is a strong companion to your preparation. This kind of structured support becomes especially helpful when you’re preparing for the CFA Level 1 exams, where building strong fundamentals is crucial.
Watch this CFA Level 1 study plan video to learn how to structure a 4‑month prep schedule, focus on high‑weight topics, and boost your chances of passing on your first attempt with support from Imarticus Learning.
Which CFA Study Resource Is Right for You?
Different CFA study resources serve different purposes – some are great for deep concepts, others for revision, and some offer complete guidance. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a simple comparison that shows what each option brings to your preparation:
| Feature | CFA Institute Books | Schweser Notes | Wiley | Bloomberg | Imarticus Learning |
| Official CFA curriculum | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Great for concept clarity & revision | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Includes practice questions | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Closest to real exam style | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Structured study plan + Mentorship | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Digital-first learning | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Beginner Friendly + Useful for all CFA levels | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
CFA Facts: The CFA Institute is the only authority that publishes the official CFA Program curriculum. All other books are third-party exam prep materials meant to simplify, not replace, the official content.
CFA Books Online vs CFA Books Near Me
A lot of students overthink where to buy their CFA books – but honestly, both options work as long as you choose the right edition. Many candidates ask me: Should they buy the books online or look for books in stores near them? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Buying CFA Books Online
Ideal if you want:
- Updated 2025 CFA book editions.
- Quick delivery and access to e-books.
- Bundled question banks or online portals.
Most students prefer online purchases for convenience and authenticity.
Finding CFA Books Near You
Useful when you:
- Want second-hand CFA course books.
- Prefer checking the physical condition before buying.
- Need books at short notice.
Bookshops often have older editions, so it is advised to check the publication year before purchasing.
How to Choose the Best CFA Study Books?
Here’s a simple way to pick the right resource:
- If you want in-depth learning, choose CFA Institute books.
- If you want fast learning and structured revision, go with Schweser Notes.
- If you need clarity on difficult topics, Wiley helps simplify concepts.
- If you study better online, Bloomberg, along with digital question banks, works well.
The right book depends on how you learn – not what others prefer. This becomes even more important when you move into CFA Level 2, where the focus shifts to complex valuation and deeper analytical application.
Are CFA Course Books Enough to Clear the Exam?
Short answer: They’re necessary, but not enough alone.
You also need:
- A good question bank.
- Mock exams.
- Revision loops.
- Formula practice.
- Topic-wise drills.
Think of your CFA course books as your foundation. What pushes you across the finish line is consistent practice.
Build a CFA Prep System That Actually Works
The CFA exam isn’t cracked by reading more – but by reading smart. If you’re preparing for the CFA Level 1 exam, building a strong foundation with the right books makes a huge difference in how confidently you progress to the next levels. Here’s what most successful candidates do:
- Start with the official CFA books.
- Use Schweser or Wiley for revision.
- Practise consistently.
- Analyse mock exams honestly.
- Repeat and refine.
If you structure your prep well and choose your CFA course books wisely, you’ll walk into the exam hall with confidence – and walk out knowing you’ve done your best.
If you’re torn between CA and CFA, this short video breaks down both paths by difficulty, salary, job opportunities, and global scope, helping you decide which qualification is the better fit for your long-term finance career in India and abroad.
Best CFA Books & Who They’re For
Every CFA aspirant studies differently – some need detailed explanations, others prefer concise summaries, and many rely on digital tools. With so many CFA study materials available, it can be hard to know which ones actually match your needs. That’s why I’ve broken down the most popular CFA books based on who they work best for, so you can pick the one that fits your learning style and your level.
| CFA Study Resource | Best For | Strengths | Limitations |
| CFA Institute Books (Official) | Deep conceptual understanding | Highly detailed, exam-aligned | Time-consuming, heavy reading |
| Schweser Notes | Fast learners, revision | Concise, easy to revise | Not as detailed as official books |
| Wiley CFA Books | Clarity on tough topics | Simple explanations, strong examples | Less popular than Schweser |
| Bloomberg CFA Books | Digital-first learners | Adaptive tools, clean layout | Newer, less tried-and-tested |
| CFA Level-specific Guides | Focused prep per level | Level-wise strategies | Requires combining with other resources |
Earning your CFA certification also opens doors to some of the most respected roles in finance, including investment banking, equity research, portfolio management, and corporate finance. These roles value the deep analytical, ethical, and investment-focused training that the CFA Program is known for – making you a strong fit for some of the most competitive opportunities in finance.
Why Start Your CFA Journey With Imarticus
Choosing the best CFA books is just one part of the journey. The next step is studying with the right guidance that helps you build the right foundation with the right mentors, the right study materials, and a structured approach that actually works- and that’s where Imarticus stands out. Preparing for the CFA exam is a big commitment. And here’s why thousands of CFA aspirants trust Imarticus:
- Industry-Expert Faculty – Learn from CFA charterholders and seasoned finance professionals who simplify complex concepts and bring real-world context to every topic.
- Structured Learning Path – Instead of randomly jumping between books, you follow a clear, exam-ready study plan designed to maximise retention.
- Comprehensive Study Resources – You get access to curated learning content, doubt-clearing sessions, mock tests, and revision materials aligned with the latest CFA curriculum.
- Personalised Mentoring – We help you identify your weak areas, build exam confidence, and stay accountable throughout your preparation.
- Proven Success Track Record – Year after year, our students successfully clear CFA Level 1, 2, and 3 – because they study smart, not blindly.
If you want a prep experience that goes beyond books and actually prepares you for global finance roles, the CFA course at Imarticus is where your journey begins.
FAQs About CFA Books
By now, you probably still have a few questions, and that’s completely normal. Before you start buying materials or building a study plan, it’s normal to have a ton of questions – Which CFA course books are actually worth it? Do I really need to buy all of them? Should I purchase them online or from a store near me?
To make things simpler, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions students have. This will help you understand exactly what you need, what you don’t, and how to choose the right CFA study books with confidence.
What are the best CFA books for beginners?
For beginners, the CFA Institute books are the best starting point because they cover every concept in detail. You can pair them with Schweser Notes, which are among the best CFA study books for quick learning and revision.
What are considered the best CFA books overall?
The top choices most students rely on are CFA official books from the CFA Institute, Schweser Notes, Wiley CFA books, Bloomberg CFA preparation books, and Imarticus Learning Comprehensive Study Material. This mix covers concepts, practice, and revision – everything you need to prepare effectively.\
Which book is best for CFA Level 1?
The best CFA Level 1 books are the CFA Institute curriculum for concept-building + Schweser Notes for faster revision and problem-solving. Enrolling in Imarticus Learning prepares you to build the foundational knowledge required to clear the CFA Level 1 and be prepared for the Level 2.
Can I get CFA books for free?
When you register for the exam, the CFA Institute provides official books in digital format at no extra cost. Free PDFs from unofficial sources are not recommended as they’re often outdated or inaccurate. It is always advised to use study materials from official sources and approved preparation partners.
Can I self-study for the CFA exam using these books?
Absolutely. Many candidates clear all three levels with self-study using a good combination of CFA Institute books with trusted third-party materials like Schweser or Wiley. Opting for guided training from Imarticus Learning often helps you boost your success in the CFA exams.
How many books do I need to study for CFA Level 1?
On average, Level 1 has 6 CFA Level books, one for each topic group provided by the CFA Institute. Most students also use an additional revision resource like Schweser.
Are CFA program books different from CFA preparation books?
Yes. CFA program books are the CFA Institute’s official curriculum. Whereas CFA preparation books are third-party guides that simplify, summarise, and help with revision. Using both gives you the best balance of depth and efficiency.
Make Your CFA Books Work Smarter for You
No matter where you start, remember this: every CFA topper was once a confused beginner. You’re already ahead by choosing the right resources.
Choosing the best CFA books isn’t about buying everything on the market – it’s about selecting the resources that match your learning style and help you master the curriculum with confidence. Whether you prefer deep, structured learning with the CFA Institute books, quick and efficient revision with Schweser Notes, or clarity with Wiley and Bloomberg, the goal remains the same: build strong concepts and practise consistently.
But remember – books alone don’t help to clear the CFA exam. But a guided strategy does. If you want structured preparation, expert mentorship, and an ecosystem designed specifically for success in the CFA course, Imarticus Learning gives you a real advantage.
Your CFA journey is long, but with the right books, the right plan, and the right mentors, success becomes a lot more achievable.