Am planning on taking CFA L1 this December, I am slightly overwhelmed by all the companies offering courses. Obviously I want to give myself the best chance but have noticed that some people have just gone with the books from Schweser which are significantly cheaper than anything on offer from BPP, Fitch, or even what seems to be offered by Schweser in the UK. I don’t know anyone who has done the exam so would appreciate some advice: is it worth paying up for BPP or somewhere or will I be fine just ordering the Premium Plus or Premium Instruction from Schewser? Can I even buy the latter two from the UK (I don’t understand why Kaplan Schweser’s UK stuff is so expensive relative to Premium Plus or Premium Instruction)?
I’m in the UK too and am just working from the Schweser notes plus CFAI materials for questions. From what I’ve heard Schweser seems to be highly regarded with many people using mostly just that to prepare.
Actually funny you should mention this because I just saw that my mailbox had been filled up with brochures from different prep course providers. There the Schweser Notes package 349 USD (not sure why they sell it in dollars in the UK) which will give you the notes which is the main thing you’ll want anyway.
Great, that is roughly what I am thinking of doing. Just don’t want to end up a month before the exam realising I have missed something out. Any more thoughts anyone?
I’ve used Schweser exclusively (no CFAI materials at all), and it seems to be the most popular. It was sufficient for me to pass all 3 levels. I wouldn’t worry about other companies offering “more”. It just seems more expensive.
I don’t know what is in the Premium package, but the most important are the NOTES and PRACTICE EXAMS. Video is redundant if you read the notes. Qbanks the same if you do practice and mock exams.
Bottom line is, your choice of review material isn’t going to be the main determinant of whether you pass. Schweser will suffice if you put in the hours to study the material.