Cracking the CFA Exam: How 60% Mock Scores Mean You Will Pass

Mock exam scores can be a source of anxiety for CFA candidates, especially those scoring around 60%. However, recent survey data reveals an encouraging truth: candidates with lower mock scores can and do successfully pass the CFA exam by adopting strategic preparation techniques. The survey shows that 28% of successful candidates scored 60% on their mock exams, proving that a low score doesn't necessarily mean you're destined to fail.

How did they do it?

Strategic Preparation is Your Secret Weapon

Candidates who succeed despite lower mock scores focus on three critical areas:

1. Targeted Weakness Analysis

After each mock exam, conduct a thorough review of your mistakes. Categorize errors into specific types:

- Misunderstanding question structures

Slow down and focus carefully while you are taking the exam – or mocks. Take the time to be sure you understand what the question is asking.

- Misapplying key concepts

Make a list of the concepts you miss. Go one by one and test your ability to apply correctly.

- Identifying knowledge gaps

For the material you still don’t know, go back to the beginning. Read it again. Do immediate recall questions to cement the material in memory.

This precise diagnosis allows you to create a focused study plan that addresses your specific weaknesses and the solution to that specific problem you are having. Knock these off one by one, and by solving for the specific weakness.

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2. Active Learning and Skill Refinement

Don't just re-read materials passively. Instead:

- Use flashcards to reinforce complex formulas

- Practice similar questions from CFA Institute resources

- Engage with peers or mentors to gain new perspectives on challenging topics

3. Develop Exam Strategy Skills

Mock exams are about more than just knowledge—they're about test-taking strategy:

- Improve time management

- Learn to eliminate unlikely answer choices quickly

- Build confidence in making educated guesses

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Quality Over Quantity?

Resist the urge to complete countless practice tests. Instead, focus on two to three high-quality mock exams. Then be sure to take the step that separates the 60% scorers who pass from the failures. Spend the time you need between tests to review and adjust your approach.

Taking mock exams is never about getting a score. It’s about filling your test taking and knowledge gaps. If you do that you can get poor mock scores and still pass.

The CFA exam's passing score is approximately 72%, but your mock performance doesn't define your potential. The most successful candidates view lower scores as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Stay focused, be strategic, and don't let a 60% mock score discourage you from achieving your CFA certification.

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