Ask almost any CFA® charterholder, and they’ll tell you: Level II is where things get serious. It’s often considered the hardest of the three exams, and the prep course that got you through Level I might not be enough this time around.
But here’s the good news—financial analysts earn a median salary of over $100K, and those with certifications like the CFA® can earn even more. So investing in the right study tools isn’t just smart—it’s strategic.
I’ve tested some of the top CFA® Level II prep courses myself, looking for the best options for different learning styles. In this guide, I’ll share the providers that deliver the strongest practice questions, video lessons, and all-around value.
CFA® Level II Review Course Comparison
 |  |  |  |  | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Access | Unlimited Access Until You Pass | 12 Months | Depends on Exam Date | Depends on Exam Date | Lifetime Access |
| Package | Elite | Learn + Practice Package | Premium | Premium | Complete |
| Price | $999 | $599 | $1,099 | $1,199 | $649 |
| Discounts | Save 15% | Save 30% | Save 15% | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Mock Exams | 2 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 3 |
| Guarantee | N/A | N/A | PassProtection™ | Money-Back | Access Until You Pass |
| Refund | No Refunds | No Refunds | 14 Days | No Refunds | 3 Days |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Note: Links are provided to disclose additional terms and conditions. Please read before purchasing.
Top CFA® Level II Providers
- Best Overall: UWorld
- Best Video Lectures: AnalystPrep
- Best Deep Dive: Kaplan-Schweser
- Best Practice Library: Bloomberg
- Budget Option: Salt Solutions
Which CFA® Level II Prep Course to Pick?
- Grab UWorld if you want a modern pick with AI tech and a mobile app.
- Pick AnalystPrep if you want a well-rounded, budget-friendly course.
- Choose Kaplan Schweser if you want the most thorough topic coverage.
- Pick Bloomberg if you want the highest number of practice questions and mock exams.
- Go with Salt Solutions if you want a budget-friendly yet comprehensive option.
- Enroll with Mark Meldrum if you want the highest quality live classes.
- Select Chalk & Board if you want the highest levels of personalized support.
1. UWorld: Best CFA® Level 2 Provider Overall
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Elite Package
UWorld’s Level II Elite Package offers a polished, mobile-friendly approach to CFA® prep, with a strong emphasis on flexibility and supplemental tools. As a reviewer, I found the mobile app to be one of its biggest draws—it’s thoughtfully designed, syncs smoothly with the main platform, and genuinely makes it easier to fit studying into spare moments throughout the day. That kind of portability is rare among CFA prep programs, and for students with unpredictable schedules, it’s a real asset.
Beyond mobility, the course packs in a wide variety of bonus materials: study guides, digital flashcards, a note-taking tool called MyNotebook, and access to live Q&A sessions via ExpertConnect. These features can be genuinely useful—if you take the time to integrate them.
That said, the core offering may feel streamlined relative to the price, particularly given the limited number of mock exams alongside a dense content library. While the breadth of material can feel overwhelming at first, the platform itself is well designed and includes several strong tools, especially for on-the-go learners. Ultimately, UWorld CFA Review’s balanced materials, live Q&A sessions, live problem-solving bootcamp, question-solving masterclasses, video lectures, and mobile app make it tough to beat.
What UWorld Offers
- Question bank with two mock exams
- Video lectures, exam questions masterclass, and 2-day problem-solving bootcamp
- Study guides (printed and digital) and MyNotebook note-taking tool
- SimpleSheets+ summaries
- Performance tracking, analytics, and study planner
- UWorld Finance Exam Prep mobile app access
- Custom or premade digital flashcard decks
- ExpertConnect live Q&A sessions
Get 15% Off UWorld CFA Level 2 Prep Course
Pros
- Lots of impressive, helpful bonus materials
- Live Q&A sessions to get your questions answered by experts
- Difficult questions to overprepare students
- Modern AI tech and deep performance analytics
- Mobile app lets you more easily bring study into your daily life
Cons
- Among the more expensive options on the list
- Only two mock exams, even though it’s one of the higher-priced packages
Bottom Line
UWorld’s appeal lies in their quality question bank, versatile mobile app, and fresh, tech-driven design. For busy students with schedules that aren’t always generous, UWorld’s portability makes it a smart choice. However, it’s also a great fit for students chasing difficult practice questions, making the real exam feel easier. While it’s on the pricey side, the payoff is a smart, sleek approach to prep that most students will appreciate.
UWorld
2. AnalystPrep: Best Video Lectures
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Learn + Practice Package
In reviewing AnalystPrep’s Level II Learn + Practice Package, what stood out immediately was its efficient, no-frills approach to CFA® exam prep. I appreciated how the course struck a balance between thoroughness and accessibility, particularly in the way it presents over 50 hours of video lectures and 1,500 pages of study notes. The content didn’t feel bloated or needlessly dense. Instead, I found the lessons clear, well-paced, and aligned with the kinds of conceptual depth CFA® candidates actually need.
One feature I especially liked was the item set practice structure. With over 225 item sets (each containing several questions), it mimics the exam format more closely than many other providers. That level of realism is invaluable for students trying to bridge the gap between theory and exam-day performance. The two full-length mock exams also help in that regard, providing a solid benchmark without feeling repetitive.
And while the package doesn’t include unlimited tutor support, the five “ask-a-tutor” questions and round-the-clock customer service felt more than sufficient for typical roadblocks. In fact, take a look at this in-depth customer service exchange I had with an outstanding rep:
Taken together, the course feels like it was built with a keen awareness of how candidates actually study—not just how providers think they should.
“AnalystPrep has really good resources. I used them in combination with the curriculum and the ecosystem to pass CFA Level I. James Forjan is the man. He just makes learning the content a lot more fun.”
Reddit Review
What AnalystPrep Offers
- Over 50 hours of video lectures
- 1,500 pages of study notes
- 225 practice item sets (with 4-6 practice questions per set, so ~1,100 questions)
- Two complete, full-length mock exams
- Five ask-a-tutor questions
- 24/7 customer service for tech issues
Check out my full review of AnalystPrep CFA® here.
AnalystPrep CFA® Discount Code
Save 30% on AnalystPrep’s affordable CFA® prep courses with these discount codes.
Pros
- Engaging, easy-to-understand video lectures
- Significantly more affordable than competing courses
- Excellent study notes, accurate and easily digestible
- Fast and thorough customer service and 24/7 tech support
- Option for lifetime Level II and Level III package upgrade
Cons
- Only two mock exams, which may not be thorough enough for some students
- No live classes, unlike live options available from UWorld and Kaplan Schweser
Bottom Line
AnalystPrep is an excellent pick for a wide range of CFA® candidates due to their affordability, entertaining and memorable video lessons, and prompt, helpful customer service. Every interaction I’ve had with the AnalystPrep team has been overwhelmingly positive, and with enjoyable videos, I was able to better retain the information. I believe AnalystPrep is a wonderful choice for students who value video lessons, a budget-friendly price, and a team that cares about their success.
AnalystPrep
3. Kaplan Schweser: Best for “Deep Dive” Students
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Premium Package
Kaplan Schweser’s Level II Premium Package is what I’d call the “all-in” option—tailored for students who don’t just want to pass the CFA® exam but want to truly master the material. Right from the start, I was struck by the sheer depth of resources. Five full volumes of SchweserNotes™ anchor the course, offering thorough yet well-organized coverage of every topic in the CFA curriculum. As a reviewer, I found it refreshing that the material didn’t just repackage curriculum content—it reshaped it with clarity and purpose, making even dense concepts more manageable.
I particularly appreciated the structure of the video content. The 30-hour Masterclass dives into advanced concepts, while the 60-hour Review Workshop walks learners through what they need to know—and remember—come exam day. Combined with more than 10 hours of question walkthroughs, it all felt like a guided journey rather than a content dump. The inclusion of six full-length mock exams, three intermediate checkpoint exams, and over 2,400 practice questions makes this one of the most robust practice environments I’ve seen.
And features like the activity feed and performance tracker subtly gamify the study process, making it easier to stay consistent over the long haul. This is a course built for students who want to leave no stone unturned—and who are willing to invest both time and money to get there.
“After so much time spent on researching providers on L1 I would honestly just recommend Kaplan to all newcomers. You won’t have to dug deep to find testimonies about it, and in fact the seniors at your firm probably used it to pass all 3 levels because they don’t have the time to be scrolling Reddit and getting tricked by the mm/nathan bot armies.”
Reddit Review
What Kaplan Schweser Offers
- Five volumes of SchweserNotes™, covering all exam topics
- 30-hour On-Demand Masterclass and 60-hour CFA® Review Workshop
- 10+ hours of question walkthrough videos
- Kaplan Schweser student community forums
- 2,400+ practice questions in SchweserPro™ QBank
- Six mock exams and three “checkpoint exams”
- Schweser’s Secret Sauce® and QuickSheets
- Activity feed and performance tracker
Get more details about Kaplan CFA® in this review.
Kaplan CFA® Discount Code
Save 15% on Kaplan Schweser’s robust, comprehensive CFA® prep resources.
Pros
- Over 100 hours of high-quality video content
- 2,400+ exam-quality practice questions
- Six mock exams, double or higher than the number from AnalystPrep and Salt Solutions
- Activity feed and performance tracking tools gamify the study experience
- Student forums help students socialize, stay accountable, and get questions answered
Cons
- The large material library may overwhelm some students
- Significantly more expensive than competitors, AnalystPrep and Salt Solutions
Bottom Line
If you look at “go big or go home” as a lifestyle, not just a catchy adage, Kaplan may be your best fit. While Kaplan is a little pricey, they deliver a value-heavy package including over 100 hours of video content, more than 2,400 questions that mirror those on the actual CFA® exam, and six complete simulated exams. One of my favorite features was the gamified tools that tracked my progress and motivated me to work harder. Overall, Kaplan has everything you need and is arguably the most comprehensive provider on the list.
Kaplan
4. Bloomberg: Best CFA® Level 2 Practice Material Library
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Premium Package
Reviewing Bloomberg’s Level II Premium Package, I was immediately drawn to its efficiency-focused design. This course doesn’t just aim to teach—it aims to streamline. The structure is built around mini-lessons that are sharp, targeted, and surprisingly effective at covering the full CFA® Level II syllabus. I liked how these bite-sized segments let me quickly jump into specific topics without wading through long-winded lectures or bloated modules. It’s clear the intent is to get students exam-ready in less time, and for many, that’s a major selling point.
What impressed me most, though, was the sheer volume of practice material. With roughly 3,000 practice questions and eight full-length mock exams—the most of any provider I reviewed—Bloomberg’s offering is a goldmine for learners who believe repetition is key. I also appreciated the inclusion of 20 ask-a-tutor credits and optional one-on-one tutoring, which provide helpful fallback support if the fast-paced format feels too lean.
The daily study tasks and performance tracker kept things moving and made it easy to monitor progress. While the course leans more minimal in bonus materials, it makes up for it in practice depth and adaptive pacing. It’s a smart fit for focused, self-motivated learners who want to drill down on what matters most.
“While Bloomberg CFA Prep played a role in my success, it was not the sole factor. It was very instrumental in testing understanding of concepts, which is crucial for success at Levels 2 & 3. This may be particularly valuable for those repeating Level 2 who may have already covered all topics and need more in-depth review.”
Reddit Review
What Bloomberg Offers
- Mini lessons covering every CFA® Level II testable topic
- ~3,000 practice questions
- Eight full-length mock exams
- 20 ask-a-tutor questions
- One-on-one tutoring available
- Performance tracking and daily study tasks
Pros
- High number of practice questions, comparable to Kaplan Schweser
- Highest number of mock exams on the list at 8 (the second-highest is Kaplan at 6)
- Bite-sized lessons covering exam topics
- Focus on efficiency and speed for a quicker study route
Cons
- The speedy strategy leaves some students in need of more comprehensive coverage
- Minimal bonus materials, unlike Kaplan Schweser
Bottom Line
One of Bloomberg’s main selling points is their efficiency; while they help you learn, there’s definitely a higher focus on practice materials, with roughly 3,000 practice questions and eight full-length mock exams. Bloomberg lacks the coverage of providers like Kaplan and the affordable price of AnalystPrep. However, I still think they offer a well-balanced course overall, a good match for students who learn best by drilling through question banks.
Bloomberg
5. Salt Solutions: Best Budget CFA® Level 2 Course
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Complete Package
Salt Solutions’ Level II Complete Package gets a lot right, especially for the price. It’s noticeably more affordable than many of the big-name providers, and while that comes with a few trade-offs, there’s still plenty here to work with. The course leans heavily into modular, time-efficient learning, with content broken into short 10-minute lessons. I found this structure helpful for building consistency, particularly for candidates trying to slot study time into a busy schedule.
There’s a decent range of features—three mock exams, end-of-reading assignments, and a custom quiz generator that includes questions from both Salt and the CFA Institute. The platform also uses gamified tools like weekly goals and visual trackers to keep users engaged. That said, in my review, the materials didn’t go quite as deep as some of the higher-ranked courses.
Some explanations felt a bit surface-level, and while the practice questions are challenging, they might feel discouraging for learners who aren’t already confident in the material. Still, for self-motivated students who value affordability and a clean, tech-forward interface over exhaustive content, Salt Solutions delivers a respectable prep experience.
What Salt Solutions Offers
- Content manuals and video lectures
- Solution and review materials
- Three mock exams and a custom quiz generator
- End-of-reading assignments to gauge your comprehension
- Weekly study goals and visual analytics
- Discussion forums to ask questions to your instructors
Pros
- Hundreds of dollars less than competitors like Bloomberg, Kaplan, and UWorld
- Gamified tech with study goals, earning points, and visual progress tracking
- Custom quiz generator includes questions from Salt Solutions and the CFA Institute
- Videos and written materials are divided into 10-minute chunks for quick study sessions
Cons
- Quicker study sessions mean less of a deep dive into key topics
- Some students have said their Level I materials are better than Level II and III
- Demanding practice questions may be demotivating
Bottom Line
Salt Solutions is one of the more affordable CFA® prep courses I reviewed, but the trade-off is a course that isn’t as comprehensive as competitors like AnalystPrep and Kaplan Schweser. However, I enjoyed the gamification of the user interface, the custom quiz generator, and the micro lessons, which allowed me to fit quick bursts of research into my day. All in all, I believe Salt Solutions is a sound choice for students on a budget who still want a well-rounded set of CFA® study materials.
Salt Solutions
6. Mark Meldrum: Best CFA® Level 2 Live Classes
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Instructor-Led Online Package
Mark Meldrum’s Level II Instructor-Led Online Package is a deep-dive option built around extensive video instruction and direct access to experienced educators. It’s a course clearly designed for students who thrive in structured, instructor-led environments. I appreciated the sheer range of resources—30+ hours of live classes, a dedicated question bank, end-of-chapter walkthroughs, and frequent mentor support. There’s no denying the thoroughness of the material, and for learners who want to be guided every step of the way, that structure can be reassuring.
However, in my review, I also found the time investment to be significant, sometimes to the point of being excessive. As one Reddit user put it,
“Although I initially started using Mark Meldrum’s videos to study, I realized it took much longer to watch the videos than to study directly from the CFA material and premium package. The videos are so lengthy that it can take months just to finish watching them. When you start preparing for mock exams, you often realize you don’t remember much of what you watched.”
That aligns with my experience, as well. The content is undeniably in-depth, but it can feel unwieldy, especially if you’re trying to fit study time into a tighter schedule. The pacing demands a lot, and the premium price point doesn’t leave much room for casual commitment. This package will appeal most to learners who value live instruction and aren’t put off by a longer, heavier study journey, but it may not be the right fit for students who need flexibility or a more concise review.
What Mark Meldrum Offers
- 30+ hours of interactive live classes
- Weekly update video, extended instructor comments, and six mentor hours
- Reading, seminar, and end-of-chapter question videos
- Question bank and mock exams
- PDF lecture notes and formula sheet for critical equations
- Archived videos are available via the mobile app
Pros
- Known for outstanding live instruction
- A good amount of in-depth instructor support
- Videos centered on learning outcome statements, practice questions, and topic deep dives
Cons
- Easily the most expensive provider on the list
- Live classes and a high level of structure are not ideal for self-paced students
- The in-depth approach results in increased study hours
- The number of videos is so large that you can easily forget topics between watches
Bottom Line
Mark Meldrum is known for excellent live classes, and that point is indisputable. However, the intimidating wall of content to get to those classes can be a barrier, and I found myself stalling Mark Meldrum studies more than I did with other courses. Further, the high price tag translates to a high level of commitment, which may be more anxiety-inducing to some candidates. Mark Meldrum has excellent live instruction, but if you want a more well-rounded course, consider AnalystPrep.
Mark Meldrum
7. Chalk & Board: Best In-Depth Support
Provider Overview
Package Reviewed: Level II Premium Package
Chalk & Board’s Level II Premium Package is easily the most hands-on, high-touch CFA® prep course I reviewed, down to the fact that your study plan is built one-on-one with founder Nathan Ronen. From there, the program delivers frequent check-ins, personalized feedback, and near-constant instructor availability through virtually every communication channel imaginable. I found this level of access unique in the CFA space, where most providers rely on forums or pooled tutor support. It’s clear that Chalk & Board is aimed at students who want not just structure, but real mentorship.
That said, this isn’t a course for everyone. With only two mock exams and a relatively modest question bank, it doesn’t compete on volume. The heavily structured format may also feel overbearing for learners who prefer to move at their own pace or who don’t need regular nudging. And as a smaller provider without the brand recognition of Kaplan or Bloomberg, it might require a leap of faith for some, particularly with the mixed reviews.
Still, if you’re the kind of student who performs best with direct accountability and one-on-one support, Chalk & Board offers a level of personal investment that no other course on this list really matches.
What Chalk & Board Offers
- 50+ hours of on-demand video instruction
- A personalized study plan created with the founder based on your exam date
- Bi-weekly progress check-ins with Nathan Ronen
- Exam “must know” tips and tricks guide
- Instructor access via text, phone, email, Zoom, FaceTime, or WhatsApp
- Two complete mock exams are included
Pros
- One of the most support-heavy prep courses out there
- High levels of accountability to ensure you study consistently
Cons
- Only two mock exams included, far fewer than Kaplan Schweser and Bloomberg
- The rigid structure may feel like a constraint for self-study aficionados
- The high level of support may be too much for introverts
- A smaller name, so students may not have the same confidence as with a “brand name”
Bottom Line
If you want hand-holding levels of accountability, Chalk & Board offers a surprisingly affordable way to receive just that. You’ll never feel alone in your studies. However, there are some drawbacks worth considering, like the less mainstream presence and inclusion of just two mock exams. Further, I like to do things my own way, and while the support is certainly valuable for the right student, it may be rigid and overwhelming to self-paced learners.
Chalk & Board
Other CFA® Courses Reviewed
Course Ranking Methodology
- Course Content Quality – Depth and accuracy of study materials
Kaplan Schweser led the pack with its five-volume SchweserNotes™ and highly detailed lectures—ideal for candidates who want thorough, textbook-level coverage. AnalystPrep also delivered strong content with well-organized study notes and engaging video instruction that kept dense material approachable.
- Effectiveness – Proven success rates and student outcomes
Kaplan Schweser’s layered structure—checkpoint exams, review workshops, and mock exams—proved especially effective for long-term retention. UWorld also stood out, largely due to its intensive practice system and smart pacing tools that help keep students aligned with the exam timeline.
- User Experience – Ease of navigation, interface, and support
AnalystPrep offered one of the smoothest onboarding and study flows, with intuitive navigation and responsive customer support. Salt Solutions brought a clean, gamified interface to the table, complete with study goals and visual trackers that helped me stay motivated.
- Practice Questions & Exams – Quantity and quality of test simulations
Bloomberg came out on top here, offering more than 3,000 practice questions and eight full-length mock exams—the highest on the list. Kaplan Schweser followed with over 2,400 questions and six mocks, giving students plenty of opportunity to simulate exam conditions.
- Instructor Engagement – Teaching style and clarity of explanations
Mark Meldrum’s course delivered some of the most in-depth live instruction available, though the time demands were substantial. Chalk & Board complemented that with unmatched one-on-one support and direct communication, which created a high-accountability learning environment.
- Value for Money – Pricing vs. features
AnalystPrep stood out for offering a comprehensive study package at a notably lower price point than its competitors. Salt Solutions also provided strong value, especially for students who want a full-featured course without paying top-tier prices.
- Flexibility – Self-paced vs. structured learning options
UWorld’s standout mobile app made it easy to fit study sessions into even the busiest schedules. AnalystPrep also impressed me with its self-paced structure and on-demand resources that let students control the rhythm of their prep.
How to Choose the Best CFA® Level II Course for You
Choosing the right CFA® prep course isn’t just about rankings—it’s about finding the right match for your study habits, learning preferences, budget, and schedule. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider and which courses best serve each need:
Learning Style
If you prefer structured learning with a clear plan and regular check-ins, Mark Meldrum or Chalk & Board offer live classes and direct instructor engagement that provide strong external accountability. On the other hand, if you thrive with self-paced study, AnalystPrep, UWorld, and Salt Solutions give you the flexibility to learn on your own time with accessible, on-demand content.
Course Format
Courses differ in how they deliver material. Kaplan Schweser stands out for variety, combining video lectures, written guides, live workshops, and extensive reading materials. If you prefer short, focused video content and interactive tools, Bloomberg and UWorld provide clean, modern formats designed for quick study sessions.
Practice Questions & Exams
Realistic, high-volume practice is crucial. Bloomberg leads the pack with 3,000+ questions and eight mock exams, closely followed by Kaplan Schweser with six full-length mocks and over 2,400 questions. These two are ideal for students who want to drill hard before test day.
Adaptive Learning
Adaptive tools can make studying more efficient by focusing on your weak areas. Salt Solutions uses gamified goals and personalized analytics to guide your progress. UWorld’s system also nudges you with daily study tasks and performance tracking that help maintain consistency.
Instructor Support
If you learn best with regular expert input, Mark Meldrum offers detailed live instruction and mentor hours, while Chalk & Board goes even further with one-on-one planning, bi-weekly check-ins, and multi-channel instructor access. UWorld and Kaplan both have live options as well.
Budget
For those looking to keep costs low without sacrificing quality, AnalystPrep offers exceptional value with comprehensive features at one of the most affordable prices on the list. Salt Solutions also caters to budget-conscious learners with a solid course structure and interactive platform at a lower price point.
Pass Guarantee
If a pass guarantee gives you peace of mind, it’s worth checking the fine print. While not all providers offer one, Kaplan Schweser includes a PassProtection™ policy that allows eligible students to retake the course if they don’t pass—something to consider if you’re risk-averse or on a tight timeline.
Course Access Length
Access timelines can vary. AnalystPrep offers a lifetime upgrade option for Level II and III, making it a good fit if your exam schedule might shift. In contrast, courses like Chalk & Board often operate within fixed access windows, which can be fine if you’re confident in your timeline but restrictive if you need more flexibility.
CFA® Level II Prep Courses Compared
AnalystPrep vs Kaplan Schweser
AnalystPrep stood out to me as a more streamlined, user-friendly experience for budget-conscious learners. The layout was clean, the study notes were surprisingly effective for their length, and the item set practice felt aligned with the actual exam. I especially liked the balance of price and performance—getting solid video instruction, concise reading material, and helpful mock exams without the financial commitment of a higher-end course. It’s ideal for students who want to study efficiently and aren’t looking for frills.
Kaplan Schweser, on the other hand, is the right choice if you want exhaustive content and don’t mind the extra time and structure that comes with it. The five SchweserNotes™ volumes and over 100 hours of video content gave the most comprehensive prep experience I reviewed. I appreciated the built-in pacing from checkpoint exams and the review workshop—tools that help guide you through the massive CFA curriculum. But that level of depth also means a greater time commitment, and the price tag reflects that.
Kaplan Schweser vs Bloomberg
Kaplan Schweser offered a more structured, curriculum-driven study plan. The way the mock exams, review tools, and checkpoint assessments were layered together gave a sense of progression that made me feel in control of the material. I also appreciated how detailed the lectures and notes were, especially if you’re someone who learns well with repetition and clear academic scaffolding.
Bloomberg’s strength lies in its practice ecosystem. With 3,000+ questions and eight full-length mock exams, it’s built for students who learn by doing. The mini lessons and performance tracking made it easy to jump in, test knowledge, and adjust on the fly. That said, the content wasn’t quite as rich or comprehensive as Kaplan’s, and the study strategy felt more geared toward efficient review than deep mastery.
AnalystPrep vs Bloomberg
AnalystPrep wins on clarity and value. The interface was easy to navigate, the notes were straightforward, and the item sets did a great job mimicking the Level II exam format. I appreciated how everything felt intentional—nothing bloated, nothing flashy, just useful study tools at a very reasonable cost. It’s great for students who want high-yield learning without distractions.
Bloomberg offers more raw practice volume, no question. If you’re someone who wants to drill mock exams and track progress with analytics, it’s a strong contender. But compared to AnalystPrep, it felt slightly less cohesive in terms of how the content, pacing, and learning strategy fit together. It’s better suited for self-driven students who already know how to study and want volume more than structure.
Salt Solutions vs UWorld
Salt Solutions has a sharper, more modern interface, and the modular video format makes studying feel fast and efficient. I liked the gamified elements like progress tracking and weekly goals—they helped keep momentum up without feeling overwhelming. While it’s a bit lean on mock exams and deep content, it offers great value and feels more user-friendly overall.
UWorld felt more ambitious in scope, with extras like a two-day bootcamp, digital flashcards, and a detailed performance dashboard. The mobile app is excellent—probably the best in this group—and I appreciated being able to review practice questions wherever I was. I’d recommend it more for mobile-first learners who prize convenience over comprehensiveness.
Kaplan Schweser vs UWorld
Kaplan Schweser is more traditional but also more robust. Its content felt like the gold standard in terms of structure and instructional depth. I liked how every topic was accounted for in multiple formats—notes, lectures, workshops, and checkpoint exams—and it made the study journey feel purposeful. It’s best for learners who want a full academic framework and don’t mind the time it takes.
UWorld, by contrast, felt more modular and mobile-friendly. I appreciated its diverse tools—especially the flashcards and app, both of which made research on the go much easier. With only two mock exams, it lacks the same built-in reinforcement, but you can get up to 5 with the package one tier above the level reviewed. It’s better for busy learners who want a more flexible, self-study schedule.
AnalystPrep vs Mark Meldrum
AnalystPrep was built for students who want to move efficiently through the material. The videos were well-paced, the item sets were realistic, and the overall experience was smooth and approachable. I liked how everything felt optimized to help you prepare effectively without burning out. It’s a great fit for self-starters who want value, quality, and simplicity.
Mark Meldrum offers a far more structured, lecture-heavy experience. His live classes and mentor sessions provide serious depth, and I can see the appeal for students who want academic-style immersion. But the video length and sheer volume of material became a drawback for me, especially when I struggled to retain early content later in the process. It’s best for those who truly prefer deep dives and guided instruction, even if it means a longer, more intense study process.
Check out our exclusive CFA® promo codes here from the courses above.
| | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Access | Unlimited Access Until You Pass | 12 Months | Depends on Exam Date | Depends on Exam Date | Lifetime Access |
| Package | Elite | Learn + Practice Package | Premium | Premium | Complete |
| Price | $999 | $599 | $1,099 | $1,199 | $649 |
| Discounts | Save 15% | Save 30% | Save 15% | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Mock Exams | 2 | 2 | 6 | 8 | 3 |
| Guarantee | N/A | N/A | PassProtection™ | Money-Back | Access Until You Pass |
| Refund | No Refunds | No Refunds | 14 Days | No Refunds | 3 Days |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Final Thoughts
The CFA® prep industry can be overwhelming with so many courses to choose from. However, that’s actually beneficial for aspiring financial analysts, as more choices mean more CFA® candidates can find the perfect match.
So, let’s review our top three. AnalystPrep is both balanced and budget-friendly, making it suitable for most students. Kaplan Schweser caters to candidates who want large learning libraries and in-depth concept coverage. Bloomberg focuses on efficiency and has the largest number of practice materials.
However, you’re here, which means you’re putting in the work and research. That’s more than what most candidates can say. No matter which course you choose, know that you have what it takes, and I wish you the best of luck in your endeavors.
FAQs
AnalystPrep offers the best overall value, while Kaplan Schweser is the most comprehensive option for deep content coverage.
Use a structured study plan with video lectures, practice questions, and at least two full-length mock exams for best results.
Yes, many candidates find Level II the most challenging due to its depth, item set format, and analytical focus.
For some, yes—but many students need closer to 350–400 hours, especially if it’s their first time encountering the material.
