Picking the right CFA® exam prep course can feel overwhelming, especially when you know how much it matters. With CFA® pass rates just over 40% for Level I, having the right tools and support can make a big difference on these difficult exams.
Two big names usually come up: AnalystPrep and Kaplan Schweser. AnalystPrep’s all about flexibility, practice questions, and a clean, modern dashboard. Kaplan Schweser? It’s the tried-and-true classic, reliable, structured, and packed with polished materials, but maybe a bit old-school in feel.
I’ve taken a close look at both to help you figure out which one actually fits your study style. Whether you’re just starting out or giving the CFA® another go, this breakdown covers everything from mock exams to study notes to support options, so you can prep smarter, not just harder.
Finding the Best CFA® Prep Course For You
- If you’re a practice-heavy learner, AnalystPrep’s customizable quizzes and CBT mock exams are the clear winner.
- If you prefer structure and familiarity, Kaplan Schweser’s masterclasses and notes still deliver, but they’re less flexible.
- AnalystPrep gives more value with lifetime packages, modern dashboards, and tutor support.
- Kaplan trails slightly because of higher costs and older-style formats, though it’s still a dependable option.
- Both providers include question banks, CFA® mock exams, and progress tracking, but AnalystPrep takes these features further.
AnalystPrep: The Gold Standard
I found AnalystPrep during my review to be very refreshing compared to other CFA® prep options. Analystprep dashboard content is modern, fast, and honestly feels built for the way people actually study today. What I liked most was the flexibility; you can create your own quizzes, switch up topics, and even push yourself under exam-like timed conditions.
The CBT mock exams are spot-on, and that made me feel much more confident heading into test day. Their lifetime package also stood out because you don’t feel the pressure of losing access if you need more time. AnalystPrep isn’t trying to be flashy; it’s straight to the point with tons of practice, clean notes, and video lessons that cut through the noise. That practice-first style worked well for me, and I think it’s why so many candidates hype it up.
Package Options
AnalystPrep keeps its packages simple.
- The Practice Package focuses on the QBank, CBT mock exams, and tracking tools.
- The Learn + Practice Package adds video lessons, study notes, and summaries.
- For full coverage, the Unlimited Package gives lifetime access to all three CFA® levels, complete with notes, mocks, and tutor support.
Course Highlights
- 3,000+ exam-style practice questions across all levels
- Customizable quizzes with peer benchmarking and timed settings
- CBT mock exams that closely replicate the actual CFA® interface
- Concise study notes and video lessons for tough concepts
- Lifetime access option with unlimited updates
- “Ask a tutor” support and 24/7 customer help
- Modern, fast, and mobile-friendly dashboard
“Analyst prep notes and video sessions by Prof. James Forjan for CFA®programs are well organized and designed that keep you engaged throughout as it conveys complex concepts into a simplified version and builds up your learning confidence with every passing moment. Highly recommended!!! 👍 If possible, buy all 3 levels of CFA program in one package and get lifetime access to them. 🙂”
Student Feedback.
Pros
- Huge Question Bank: Thousands of tough, exam-style practice questions kept me sharp.
- Custom Quizzes: I liked drilling weak areas on my terms with timed sets.
- Lifetime Access: No stress about deadlines, I could study at my own pace.
Cons
- Limited Extras: Fewer flashcards and supplemental tools.
AnalystPrep CFA®
Kaplan Schweser: The Reliable Traditionalist
Kaplan Schweser has been around forever in the CFA® prep world, and there’s a reason people still use it: it’s steady and reliable. The SchweserPro QBank is strong, and I liked the checkpoint exams that made me test my progress at key points. Their QuickSheets and SchweserNotes are convenient for reviewing on the go.
What I noticed, though, is that Kaplan feels more structured and less flexible. You get what they give you, and it’s laid out in a set path. That can be great if you like structure, but it felt heavier to me compared to AnalystPrep’s customizable approach. The review workshops and Secret Sauce guides are still big draws, but overall, Kaplan feels like the “classic” prep provider: dependable, but not as modern or adaptive as others.
Package Options
Kaplan Schweser structures its CFA® prep by level with four tiers each.
- Basic gives core tools and two mocks
- Essential adds digital notes and four mocks
- Premium includes review workshops, Secret Sauce®, and six mocks
- Ultimate bundles everything, flashcards, audio, live classes, and full instructor support.
Every level includes the SchweserPro™ QBank, checkpoint exams, and PassProtection™
“Kaplan provides you a great program to start your CFA journey. It helps you get organised and focus on the most important topics.”
Student Feedback
Course Highlights
- SchweserPro™ QBank with 2,600+ exam-like questions
- Multiple full-length mock exams (2–6, depending on package)
- Checkpoint exams to test progress at key milestones
- SchweserNotes™ (print, digital, audio) and QuickSheet summaries
- Review workshops and 70+ hours of masterclass instruction
- Secret Sauce® condensed exam strategy guide
- Access to Kaplan Schweser Community and InstructorLink
Pros
- SchweserNotes™: Clear and concise, great for quick review sessions.
- Checkpoint Exams: I liked having built-in milestones to track progress.
- Secret Sauce®: Practical exam tips that felt useful right before test day.
Cons
- Old-School Format: The dashboard felt dated compared to AnalystPrep’s.
- Limited Flexibility: Customization options weren’t as strong for quizzes.
Kaplan Schweser
Kaplan and AnalystPrep Feature Comparisons
| Feature |  |  |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Up to lifetime access | Access tied to exam window |
| QBank | 3,000+ updated exam-style questions | 2,600+ questions, solid but less customizable |
| Mocks | CBT-format, printable, unlimited in lifetime plan | 2–6 mocks depending on package |
| Notes & Video Lectures | Concise study notes, video lessons, and summaries | SchweserNotes™, QuickSheet, workshops |
| Flexibility | Custom quizzes, peer benchmarking, ask-a-tutor | Structured study path, less customizable |
| Guarantee | Confidence Guarantee with extensions until you pass | PassProtection retake of the package |
| Overall Feel | Modern, agile, practice-driven | Traditional, structured, dependable |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now |
AnalystPrep vs. Kaplan CFA®: Side-by-Side Comparison
AnalystPrep and Kaplan Schweser are two of the most popular CFA® prep courses, but they don’t deliver the same experience, and both help candidates prepare for the CFA® exam but in very different ways.
Next, I’ll break down how these two compare when it comes to technology, practice tests, value, and support because the right fit depends on whether you want more flexibility or more structure.
Learning Platform & Video Experience
AnalystPrep: The dashboard felt simple and modern, with easy-to-navigate tools. I liked how the engaging video lessons paired directly with concise study notes, making complex concepts easier to handle. Custom quizzes let me adjust to my weak areas, and the platform worked smoothly on desktop and mobile.
Kaplan Schweser: Kaplan’s platform worked reliably, but it felt more like a digital version of a classroom binder. The video content leaned longer and lecture-style, which was thorough but not as engaging. It didn’t adapt if I slipped behind, though the SchweserNotes remain a standout resource for quick review.
🏆The Winner: AnalystPrep – a better fit for visual learners and those who want engaging, modern tools.
Mocks, Practice Questions, and Tools
AnalystPrep: The highlight was the CBT mock exams. They looked and felt like the real exam, which helped me get comfortable with timing and the testing environment. The exam-like practice questions broke down results by topic, giving me a clear roadmap for what to review next.
Kaplan Schweser: Kaplan offered more CFA® mock exams overall and strong practice tests. The checkpoint exams were useful milestones, though the feedback wasn’t as detailed as AnalystPrep’s analytics.
🏆The Winner: AnalystPrep – better feedback and more exam-day realism.
Features and Value
AnalystPrep: The Practice Package includes QBank and mocks, the Learn + Practice Package adds video lessons and summaries, and the Unlimited Package gives lifetime access across all CFA® program levels. I liked that even at the entry tier, you don’t lose core tools.
Kaplan Schweser: Kaplan Schweser offers four packages (Basic, Essential, Premium, Ultimate). Higher tiers add extras like Secret Sauce®, digital flashcards, live online classes, and review workshops. The pass guarantee is reassuring, but the cost runs higher, especially if you need more than one exam window.
🏆The Winner: AnalystPrep – stronger value for the price and lifetime options.
Student Support and Tutoring
AnalystPrep: I liked the ask a tutor feature built into higher tiers, along with responsive 24/7 customer support. Having unlimited extensions until you pass also felt like a confidence boost.
Kaplan Schweser: Kaplan offers InstructorLink and community forums, as well as live workshops, which provide me with more consistent instructor access. For students who want regular interaction and accountability, this setup worked well
🏆The Winner: Kaplan Schweser – stronger for live access and steady instructor support.
My Final Verdict
After reviewing both, AnalystPrep felt like the more modern and adaptable CFA® prep course. The video lessons, CBT-style mock exams, and customizable study plan gave me tools that matched how I actually study. With lifetime access and affordable packages, AnalystPrep’s platform makes exam preparation less stressful.
Kaplan Schweser remains a strong, traditional choice. Its study materials, live classes, and extras like Secret Sauce®deliver a structured path with plenty of accountability. But compared side by side, it felt heavier and less flexible than AnalystPrep’s streamlined system.
In the end, it comes down to learning style.
Want a prep course that adapts to your pace? See what AnalystPrep offers.
Need a roadmap with clear structure and trusted study guides? Take a look at Kaplan Schweser.
FAQs
Yes, AnalystPrep includes full-length CBT mock exams that closely simulate the real CFA® exam environment. These are available in all tiers, with unlimited attempts in the Unlimited Package.
Kaplan Schweser offers its PassProtection™ policy. If you don’t pass the CFA® exam, you may be eligible to retake the same study package at no additional cost.
AnalystPrep stands out for flexibility with customizable quizzes, self-paced video lessons, and lifetime access, making it ideal for independent learners.
For most candidates, AnalystPrep offers better value and a more modern experience. Kaplan is a great option for those who prefer a structured study plan and live class support.
Yes, both platforms offer mobile-friendly dashboards. AnalystPrep’s layout is more modern and responsive, while Kaplan’s platform is functional but more traditional in design.
