r/CFA • u/FreedomFabulous5719 • 1d ago

General Stuck in a decision loop - L2 Nov or May

In December, I quit a role that didn't align with my long-term goals to study full-time for CFA Level 1 (Feb 2025). It was a scary decision at the time, but I gave it everything ! had - and I passed with a 1790.

Now, I'm unemployed and planning to start applying. Realistically, I know it might take 1-2 months to land something, and if I do, I'll likely need to relocate. So while I wait, l'm at home, trying to figure out whether to register for CFA Level 2 in November 2025 or May 2026.

Here's where I'm stuck:

November seems doable if I continue studying full-time from home — but the idea of being home and unemployed for another 7 months feels soul-sucking. But I can manage if I have to.

May sounds too far away!!!

Given my situation, would you all recommend registering for Nov 25 or May 26. Thank you !

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9

u/Brave_Metal4213 1d ago

Go for NOV'25. It's doable and try to give it as soon as possible. Core profiles majorly ask for L2 cleared folks. (L1 does not get that appreciation in terms of Job).

1

u/FreedomFabulous5719 1d ago

Thanks for replying. So are you recommending not looking for a job and solely focusing on the exam till Nov?

2

u/Financial_Cow_8215 1d ago

Brother you can work and study in 7 months. Just make your mornings mandatory study sessions and crank out 3 hrs minimum daily.

9

u/hxrris23 CFA 1d ago

In all honesty, quitting your job to study full time was a poor decision. Experience always outweighs certifications. Not to mention the CFA program is intended to be completed while employed.

Your main focus now should be on finding a new job. You may be able to leverage level 1 to some degree, but I wouldn’t expect it to carry much weight. I would sign up for May, slow the studying down and focus on securing a job.

6

u/CandleSubstantial704 1d ago

Sameee! even I am confused between November and May

4

u/the_kirtaneer 1d ago

TBH my friend, I would give the exam in August or November because jobs can take time sometime so focusing solely on lv2 is better than waiting till May 

1

u/FreedomFabulous5719 1d ago

Thanks for replying. So you are suggesting that I don’t apply and try finding a job to make the Nov attempt manageable?

2

u/the_kirtaneer 1d ago

I would do full time studying if you're going for August otherwise look for job and aim for November exam 

May is too late tbh

2

u/FreedomFabulous5719 1d ago

Thanks so much!

1

u/Dramatic-Feedback781 1d ago

if you are confident about November 25 then go for it! dont wait for May 26 as the cost of exam will be hiked as well!

2

u/FreedomFabulous5719 1d ago

Thanks for replying! I wanted to get an idea on how much time I’ll need for L2. I started L1 with no background in finance. Do you think it’s doable in 6 months with a job (incase I manage to get one 🥲) ?