CFA level 3 study materials

Many CFA® candidates consider the CFA® Level 3 exam to be the toughest session of all.

Why is that?

The questions included on this exam level are more like case studies. Level three exam questions require carefully thought-out responses. Also, they’re more subjective than other question levels.

So, if you’re serious about becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst, you’ll need to really study to pass the CFA® Level 3 exam.

And while there’s no surefire way to guarantee success on the test, having the right CFA® Level III study materials can give you a leg up.

What are the best CFA® Level 3 study materials out there? Here are our top picks:


1. Wiley CFA® Level III Study Materials

Wiley CFA

The Wiley CFA® Study Guide is another popular choice for those preparing for the CFA® Level III exam. This guide covers all of the core concepts tested on the exam, and it does so in a clear and concise way. It also includes practice questions at the end of each chapter to help you test your knowledge as well.

CFA Level III: Time Management

Many successful CFA® candidates have used the Wiley Study Guide to help them prepare for Level III of the exam. We think it’s a great choice for those looking for high-quality, complete coverage study materials.

Included in the Wiley Study Guide are superior study aids such as:

  • A diagnostic test to help you assess your strengths and weaknesses
  • Full-length practice exams
  • Flashcards

Pros & Cons:

  • Wiley’s study plans are customizable which is a huge plus for their program. Another great thing about the Wiley option is that you can access the self-study materials until you pass. So, you won’t have to worry about time running out if it takes a while to prepare for the exam.
  • They also have a high pass rate, with around 90% of those who chose Wiley passing the exam. Again, this is much higher than the CFA® Level III exam pass rate that trends in the 40s.

  • Unfortunately, Wiley doesn’t offer a money-back guarantee like other test prep companies.

Bottom Line: Wiley’s CFA level 3 study materials come equipped with all the bells and whistles needed to prepare for and pass your level III CFA exam.


2. Kaplan Schweser CFA® Level III Prep Course

Kaplan CFA

The Level III CFA® exam is no joke. It’s notoriously difficult and downright intimidating for many test-takers. That’s why Kaplan Schweser offering is such a popular choice among those studying for the Level III exam.

CFA® Level III Exam Updates

These study materials:

  • Are integrated into an online learning platform
  • Help you quickly reference difficult concepts while reviewing practice exam questions
  • Are delivered in bite-sized modules, making it easier to study in shorter segments
  • Include key formulas in an online module and topic quizzes designed to help you retain and practice every concept
  • Are available in print, online, and eBook formats—giving you multiple ways to take in the content

Pros & Cons:

  • These well-organized notes break down the material in an easily digestible format, making complex concepts much simpler to understand. In addition, they offer solid summaries that make studying for the CFA® Level III manageable. They’re also updated annually to ensure that you study with the most current information.
  • Kaplan Schweser is up to date on all things CFA®, and like to keep their candidates up to date as well.

  • As one of the most popular study materials on the market, Kaplan SchweserNotes come at a pretty penny.

Bottom Line : Kaplan CFA® is well worth considering if you want a top notch course from one of the most well-known educational test prep companies in the world.


3. AnalystPrep CFA Level III Study Materials

Analyst Prep

If you’re willing to spend a little bit more on your study materials, AnalystPrep delivers comprehensive learning tools to help you prepare for the CFA® Level 3 exam. The site includes practice questions, video lectures, and personalized learning plans to help you focus your studying.

These CFA® study materials are designed to help you develop a strong understanding of the exam content and build the skills you need to pass the test. What’s more, the practice questions are updated regularly to ensure they’re aligned with the most recent exam content.

Pros & Cons:

  • Analyst Prep is one of the most highly rated CFA® prep programs according to 3rd party reviews. Their expert instructors are unmatched and loved by students.
  • CFA® Charterholder Brian M. put it this way “Before I came across this website, I thought I could not manage to take the CFA exam alongside my busy schedule at work. But with the up-to-date study material, there is little to worry about.”
  • Their program also has a more personable vibe when it comes to guidance and the way it is presented. They also provide lifetime access to video lessons and a question bank for all three levels.

  • The only real con for Analyst Prep is that some CFA® candidates have reported errors in their question bank. Thankfully, this is something that the company is workking quickly to address.

Bottom Line : AnalystPrep’s excellent CFA level 3 videos make them a top contender for best CFA prep course. Check out a free-trial and decide for yourself!