Balancing Work and CFA Preparation: Tips for Success

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams, administered by the CFA Institute, are some of the most rigorous professional challenges for aspiring financial analysts. The CFA designation is highly respected globally, and earning it requires an immense commitment to preparation.

Successful candidates study for over 300 hours for each CFA exam level, so what does that mean for those with a full-time job? You have an even greater mountain to climb and need the best CFA prep strategies. Here are eight expert tips for CFA exam prep from Salt Solutions.

1. Be Self-Aware

Before diving into CFA prep, take an honest look at yourself and your current life. What do you have on your plate? Assess how much time you need for work, family, friends, and other commitments. You must be ready for the changes ahead now that the CFA exams are your new prerogative.

You should also consider your energy levels throughout the day. Are you more productive in the morning or at night? It is also essential to recognize your stress triggers and limits. Self-awareness will help you build a sustainable routine, highlighting your strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.

2. Identify Support Systems

A strong support system can make all the difference in juggling CFA studies, a job, and a life. Do not hesitate to talk to your family, friends, and colleagues about your journey so they can provide encouragement and flexibility when you need it most. The more that people in your life understand your commitments, the more they can be there for you.

You might find it helpful to join online forums or study groups where you can interact with fellow candidates, especially those who are also working professionals like you. Engaging with a community of CFA candidates can keep you motivated.

3. Set Your Priorities

Prioritization is key when you have limited hours in the day. One of the best ways to structure your time effectively is by using the Eisenhower Matrix. This framework divides tasks into four quadrants:

• Urgent and Important: Tasks demanding immediate attention, like work deadlines and upcoming CFA exams.
• Important but Not Urgent: Tasks that are crucial but you can schedule them, such as daily CFA study sessions.
• Urgent but Not Important: Tasks you should do but could delegate, like administrative work at the office.
• Neither Urgent Nor Important: Tasks that waste time and that you must eliminate, such as excessive social media use (unless you're focused on @SaltSoln on Instagram).

Categorize your responsibilities this way to know what you should focus on and what you should let go of. It is possible to zero in on CFA prep while still meeting your job obligations.

4. Manage Your Time

Once you have your priorities straight, block out dedicated study time in your daily calendar. Adopt the Pomodoro Technique, which means studying in focused 25- to 50-minute intervals with short breaks to maximize retention and avoid burnout. Use “dead time” wisely, too, from lunch breaks to commute time, by listening to CFA-related podcasts or reviewing flashcards.

5. Set Realistic Targets

Rather than setting overly ambitious goals, divide your CFA prep into smaller, achievable milestones with your job in mind. For example, you can aim to complete one study session per day, cover a specific number of pages per week, and take a full-length practice exam once a month. Maintain steady progress without overwhelming yourself.

6. Explore Different Study Options

Not all study methods work the same for everyone. You have your own learning style, and it is ideal to find options that not only fit your schedule but also help you grasp the material efficiently.

Consider traditional classroom instruction if you have the resources. Online courses are a good alternative if you would instead learn at your own pace.

Expose yourself to various tools. Video lectures are great for visual and auditory learners, while textbooks may be better for those who prefer reading. Take a CFA practice quiz every now and then, and never skip practice exams.

7. Inform Your Employer

Whether or not your job requires a CFA certification, informing your employer of your pursuit is always beneficial. They may offer financial support, study leave, or flexible work hours to nurture your professional development.

Even if no formal support is available, letting your manager know about your CFA exam can lead to more understanding and accommodation.

8. Put Yourself First

Like life in general, balancing a full-time job and CFA studies is a marathon, not a sprint. No matter what happens, you are your prime concern.

Do not be afraid to say no to things and people that drain your time and energy. Moreover, maintain a balanced diet, as proper nutrition supports concentration and overall health. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep every night, and do physical activities to boost cognitive function and reduce stress.

Yes, there are a great deal of expectations to meet, but without your well-being in check, none of it would be possible. Self-care is not selfish; it is necessary for success.

Salt Solutions: Your CFA Prep Partner

All CFA candidates go through the same CFA exam hurdles, but those who have full-time jobs while studying will find it tougher to fit everything in. You need extra self-awareness, discipline, and the right resources.

At Salt Solutions, we offer the best CFA prep tools that help you pass all three levels of the CFA exam while balancing your career and personal life. Find top-tier materials, lectures, question banks, and expert guidance while leveraging our pace keeper that ensures you stay on track.

There are so many things to do, and you only have 24 hours a day. With a CFA prep partner by your side, every minute will count. Contact Salt Solutions today to learn more about our programs.