The CFA® Level III exam is the most mentally challenging of the three. Unlike Levels I and II, this one pushes students to apply complex theories in essay format, think like a portfolio manager, and analyze scenarios from multiple angles.
Only 49% of candidates passed the Level III CFA exam recently. I believe many of those who didn’t simply choose the wrong prep method or underestimate how different this final stage is. I tested the most popular Level 3 prep courses myself to see which ones helped me stay on track, identify knowledge gaps, and get comfortable with essay-style questions.
Below is my breakdown of the best prep options for Level III candidates, based on what I found most effective during my studies for this review.
Best CFA® Level 3 Prep Course Comparison
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Which CFA® Level 3 Prep Course Is Right for You?
- Use UWorld if you want to drill hard questions with thorough explanations and mobile access.
- Choose AnalystPrep if you want affordable, structured study with detailed essay practice and helpful performance feedback.
- Pick Kaplan Schweser if you want live classes, top-tier notes, and hands-on support from instructors.
- Try Bloomberg Prep if you want a tech-savvy platform with adaptive study tools, performance tracking, and extensive mock exams.
- Choose Salt Solutions if you prefer modern, self-paced learning with bite-sized video lessons.
- Consider Mark Meldrum if you prefer in-depth, professor-style lectures and lifetime access.
1. UWorld: Best CFA® Prep Course
As for UWorld, the answer explanations were excellent, and each question felt like a mini tutoring session. I liked the flashcards, MyNotebook feature, and especially the customizable test mode, which let me build mock exams based on my weak areas. Many questions were more challenging than the real exam, which helped boost my confidence.
One Reddit reviewer described a similar experience with practice questions:
“I’ve used content from multiple prep providers, and UWorlds Qbank is the best one I’ve found. The explanations to the answers are where the real value lies. Detailed explanations for the correct and incorrect answers.”
UWorld offers one of the best question banks I have tested, especially for reinforcing weak areas. However, there are a lot of positive qualities, from the mobile app to the comprehensive digital flashcard sets.
UWorld CFA® Level 3 Packages
I turned to the Advanced Plan when I needed to drill questions fast. The QBank was the most detailed I used; every answer provided a clear explanation of why it was right or wrong in plain language. I also created a custom MyNotebook from weak areas and reviewed flashcards on the go.
Later, I tested the Elite Plan, which adds video lectures and a complete MasterClass. The tools are strong; if you can grit your teeth through the learning curve, you’ll come out on the other side substantially more prepared than you would have been with another course.
Key Features
- In-depth QBank with explanation-rich answers
- Flashcards, ReadyDecks, and MyNotebook tools
- Two mock exams with detailed answer reviews
- Mobile app and personalized study planner
- StudyPass™ with access until you pass
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Pros
- The explanations are high-quality; they taught me the concepts when I got something wrong
- The format, style, and length of the mock exams mirror the actual test
- The mobile app was clutch, I reviewed flashcards during my commute and in waiting rooms
- StudyPass meant I didn’t feel rushed to finish everything in a short time window
- Questions forced me to think critically, which helped in the constructed response section too
Cons
- The interface is very plain, nothing fancy, just function over form
Bottom Line
Use UWorld if you want to drill difficult questions with detailed explanations and mobile-friendly tools. It has a strong question bank for Level III, especially for reviewing weak spots. While the interface isn’t fancy, the strong practice tools make it a smart choice for most CFA candidates.
UWorld
2. AnalystPrep: Best Value for CFA® Level 3 Candidates
AnalystPrep surprised me the most during my prep. I didn’t expect much at the price point, but the platform turned out to be my primary study tool. The essay-style questions mirrored what I saw on the actual exam, and the dashboard helped me stay honest about my weaknesses.
I found the video content in AnalystPrep’s Level III CFA® course to be clear, direct, and easy to absorb. Each lesson focused on what actually shows up on the exam, with no fluff. The teaching style felt intentional and efficient, especially for topics like portfolio construction and performance attribution. One Trustpilot user summed it up well, saying:
“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. 🙂”
I agree. The sessions were concise and well-structured, which made the review process feel manageable and even motivating.
AnalystPrep CFA® Level 3 Packages
The Learn + Practice Package provided me with one of the most well-rounded preparation experiences. The 60 hours of video were clear and concise, and the 2,000 pages of study notes helped me decode even the most complex concepts. What I appreciated most were the essay-style case studies; they weren’t just filler. They made me feel confident walking into the real exam.
If you already have content from the CFA Institute, the Practice Package still gives you access to essay and MCQ vignettes, mock exams, and built-in tracking, which I found great for brushing up during review weeks.
Key Features
- 60 hours of expert-led video lessons
- 50+ essay-style practice cases
- 100+ vignette-style MCQs
- Full-length CBT mock exams
- Performance tracking dashboard with 12-month access
Pros
- The essay questions are realistic and helped me prep for the written section without feeling overwhelmed
- Analytics dashboard helped me track where I was improving and showed where I needed more work
- The notes are dense but clear; I used them more than the CFA Institute book
- Best value by far if you’re self-motivated and don’t need hand-holding
- Ideal if you usually find lectures too bland; these are entertaining and helpful
Cons
- No live instruction, I had to stay disciplined without external reminders
Bottom Line
AnalystPrep provided me with everything I needed for CFA® Level III at a price affordable for the average student. The practice exams alone made it worth it, and the videos are excellent if you usually struggle to stay focused. Overall, there’s a lot of value here, and it’s tough to go wrong with AnalystPrep as a cheaper choice.
AnalystPrep
3. Kaplan Schweser: Best for Structured Exam Prep
Kaplan Schweser was the first CFA® course I tried. I was drawn to it because almost every CFA® candidate I knew had used it for at least one level of the exam. For Level III, I used their PremiumPlus package and joined some of the live classes, which helped me stay motivated to keep studying for this very guide.
The SchweserNotes broke things down nicely, and their Review Workshop, held the month before my exam, was the most helpful part. I submitted two essay responses for review and got thoughtful feedback that helped me change how I structured my written answers. One of the most impressive features I discovered while reviewing the courses was Kaplan’s Candidate Risk Overview. It gives you a snapshot of where you’re on track and where you’re falling behind, based on your study progress. Even as a reviewer, I could see how helpful that tool would be for keeping candidates focused and accountable during such a long prep process.
Kaplan Schweser CFA® Level 3 Packages
I used the Premium Package, and it instantly brought structure to my study routine. SchweserNotes simplified the curriculum without compromising its complexity, and the on-demand masterclasses helped me understand how to approach CFA-style questions. Their Review Workshop pulled everything together during the final month and gave me a clear strategy heading into exam day.
One Trustpilot reviewer echoed this experience, noting that “One of the best parts of Kaplan is having a structured guide to all the lessons and a path to complete them in a timely manner.”
I found that same structure to be one of Kaplan’s biggest strengths, especially for candidates who want a clearly defined study plan with expert-led content.
The Ultimate Package includes Live Masterclasses and Live Review Workshops, which several of my peers swore by for accountability and community. For more independent learners, the Essential and Basic Packages still offer solid tools without the complete classroom feel.
Key Features
- SchweserNotes and expert-led instruction (live or OnDemand)
- Review Workshops for exam strategy and reinforcement
- Mock exams with item sets and essay components
- Built-in weekly study planner
- PassProtection™ for added test-day security
Pros
- SchweserNotes saved me from information overload
- The instructor-led review workshop gave me last-minute clarity on essay techniques
- Having the option to switch between live and on-demand classes worked well with my schedule
- PassProtection gave me peace of mind since I was nervous about my first attempt
- The wide variety of materials ensured I was never bored
Cons
- Higher price-point
- The user interface felt clunky compared to AnalystPrep
Bottom Line
Pick Kaplan Schweser if you want structure, accountability, and trusted expert instruction every step of the way. As a reviewer, I found their study plan and review tools to be among the most complete and well-organized in the industry. While the platform design isn’t the most modern, the depth of content and quality of support easily make it one of the most reliable CFA prep options out there.
Kaplan
4. Bloomberg Prep: Best for Tech-Savvy CFA® Candidates
I used Bloomberg Prep during the first half of my CFA® Level III studies, and I have to admit, it felt like the most “modern” of all the platforms. The layout is clean, intuitive, and loaded with intelligent analytics. The AI dashboard gave me a projected pass likelihood based on my performance across key concepts. It helped me identify weak areas early and adjust my study strategy accordingly.
Bloomberg Prep CFA® Level 3 Packages
When I tested the Premium Plan, the adaptive dashboard quickly became my favorite feature. It told me exactly where to focus and adjusted when I fell behind. I completed several full-length mock exams, which are truly designed to boost confidence and make you feel prepared for the real thing.
The Ultimate Plan adds 100 Ask-a-Tutor questions. I didn’t use all of them, but knowing I could reach out when stuck was reassuring. Bloomberg feels fast, modern, and polished, great for visual and data-driven learners.
Key Features
- 9 full-length mock exams (Premium and up)
- AI-powered study schedule and performance tracking
- Topic-level analytics and daily goal reminders
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Clean, intuitive learning interface
Pros
- The adaptive dashboard kept me on track and reduced the pressure of building my schedule
- The performance metrics were genuinely helpful, not just fluff. I could see exactly where I was falling behind
- The mock exams were challenging and helped simulate the real exam better than I expected
- I liked how everything was streamlined, I never had to dig around to find what I needed
Cons
- Constructed response coverage was light, especially compared to AnalystPrep or Kaplan
- There’s no real instructor interaction, and I missed having access to human feedback
Bottom Line
Bloomberg Prep is ideal for CFA® Level III candidates seeking intelligent analytics, numerous mock exams, and a tech-forward experience. It kept me motivated and organized during the early phases of studying, but I recommend pairing it with another course that specializes in essay strategy.
Bloomberg Prep
5. Salt Solutions: Best for Modern Self-Study
Salt Solutions caught my attention due to its clean interface and free trial. I started with their Quant Methods module, which was surprisingly engaging given the topic. In particular, I really enjoyed the interface, especially when it came to tools like performance tracking:
The bite-sized videos made it easier to study in short bursts. I liked how they let me move at my own pace without getting lost in too many tabs or dashboards. However, I do think the lack of some vital features means it’s better used as a supplement than as a complete, stand-alone study course.
Salt Solutions CFA® Level 3 Packages
Salt Solutions stood out for its simplicity. I started with the Free Trial and loved how uncluttered the dashboard was. Lessons were short and focused, and the layout made it easy to track progress. I eventually chose the Complete Plan, which gave me everything I needed at my own pace.
However, Salt lacks essay-specific support; I’d recommend supplementing it with AnalystPrep for full-constructed response practice.
Key Features
- Clean, distraction-free platform design
- Short video lessons aligned to each LOS
- Full-length mock exam included
- Progress tracking by topic and module
- Lifetime access with Complete Plan
Pros
- Lessons are short and direct, great when I was short on time
- The Complete Plan gave me lifetime access, so I didn’t feel rushed
- The dark, geometric-style interface felt modern and easy on the eyes
Cons
- No essay practice, which made it hard to prep for that part of the exam
- Not enough mock exams; I only got one full-length
- Not as comprehensive as providers like Kaplan Schweser
Bottom Line
Choose Salt Solutions if you want a streamlined, no-pressure study tool with a clean design and short, digestible lessons. It was an excellent way for me to reinforce concepts without feeling overwhelmed, especially during busy weeks. But with limited mock exams and no essay practice, I wouldn’t rely on it as my only prep method for CFA® Level III.
Salt Solutions
6. Mark Meldrum: Best for In-Depth Lectures
Mark Meldrum feels like sitting in a CFA® university lecture series. I used his Self-Study and Applied Analysis plan and found the videos to be incredibly thorough.
The downside for me was that it’s not as interactive or visual. I had to force myself to take notes to stay engaged. But there’s a high level of depth, especially for ethics and portfolio management. If you can stay focused and afford the premium price, this could be a strong pick.
Mark Meldrum CFA® Level 3 Packages
I used the Self-Study + Applied Asset Management package, and it felt like taking a CFA® university course. Dr. Meldrum doesn’t just teach the material; he walks you through how to think about it conceptually. The videos on EOC questions and portfolio theory were beneficial, especially during review.
If you’re looking for depth over tech or interactivity, the Self-Study plan gives you all the same core lectures and tools, minus some of the extras.
Key Features
- Lecture-style videos across all Learning Outcome Statements
- Applied videos, seminar breakdowns, and mock exams
- PDF notes, formula sheets, and study archive
- Instructor commentary for difficult sections
- App access for mobile learning
Pros
- The lectures go deep; they explain not just what to memorize, but why it matters
- Strong coverage of Learning Outcome Statements and CFA® vocabulary
Cons
- I had to create my own study calendar; it’s not structured unless you build one
- The interface is plain, and it took a while to find where things were
- The price may not be reasonable for the average candidate
Bottom Line
Consider Mark Meldrum if you prefer traditional lectures and want a deep, conceptual understanding of the CFA® curriculum. It’s a solid option for theory-heavy learners, but compared to AnalystPrep or UWorld, it lacks interactive tools and hands-on practice features.
Mark Meldrum
CFA® Level III Prep Course Honorable Mentions
While these CFA® prep providers didn’t make my top list, they still offer solid tools that may be a good fit depending on your learning style or needs:
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CFA® Exam Prep Course vs Course Comparison
Choosing the right CFA® Level 3 prep course depends on how you learn best. Here’s how the top providers compare based on my experience reviewing and testing each one:
AnalystPrep vs Kaplan Schweser
AnalystPrep gives you incredible value with realistic essay practice, targeted MCQs, and clear performance feedback. It’s ideal for self-paced learners who want exam-style prep at an affordable price. Kaplan, by contrast, offers a more structured experience with live classes, detailed notes, and instructor support, making it a stronger choice if you want full guidance and a step-by-step plan.
Best For: Budget-friendly, exam-focused prep (AnalystPrep) vs. structured, full-course instruction (Kaplan)
Bloomberg Prep vs UWorld
Both platforms are effective for drilling questions, but I found UWorld to be stronger overall because of the depth and clarity of its explanations. Bloomberg’s AI-driven scheduling and polished interface are impressive, and I appreciated how the study plan adjusted as I progressed. Still, UWorld’s explanations did more of the heavy lifting for me, especially when it came to diagnosing weak areas and actually understanding why I was missing questions, which made my practice feel more productive and exam-focused.
Best For: Smart scheduling and mock volume (Bloomberg) vs. QBank quality and explanation depth (UWorld)
Salt Solutions vs AnalystPrep
Salt Solutions is clean, easy to use, and great for light review. I liked it as a supplemental tool for brushing up on concepts without the pressure of live classes or heavy dashboards. However, for serious preparation, AnalystPrep offers more depth, particularly in areas such as essay drills, mock exams, and study analytics.
Best For: Minimalist self-study (Salt Solutions) vs. affordable full exam readiness (AnalystPrep)
Mark Meldrum vs Kaplan Schweser
Mark Meldrum’s course feels like a deep academic lecture series. His conceptual explanations are strong, especially for portfolio topics. However, it lacks the planning tools, mock exam support, and instructor feedback that make Kaplan more versatile. If you want theory with little distraction, Meldrum is solid. But Kaplan is a better all-around platform for passing the exam.
Best For: Conceptual depth and lectures (Meldrum) vs. structured prep with practical tools (Kaplan)
Final Verdict
UWorld is my top pick for CFA® Level 3 prep thanks to its strong practice tools, educational videos, and app. AnalystPrep is a comprehensive course at a discounted price. Kaplan Schweser is ideal for structured learners who seek expert instruction and a comprehensive study plan. Bloomberg Prep stands out for its adaptive tech and high-volume mock exams. Salt Solutions is clean and easy to use, but it works best when used in conjunction with another course. Mark Meldrum offers solid conceptual depth for lecture-focused learners who prefer to study solo.
There’s the recap. Now, it’s your turn: which prep course is right for you? Hopefully, you now have all the info you need to make that decision and start studying.
FAQ
UWorld offers the best value with essay-style questions, mock exams, and performance tracking, designed to support Level 3 success.
Yes. It focuses on portfolio management and written responses, requiring a deep understanding and precise application of concepts.
Most candidates spend study 300 to 400 hours over 4 to 6 months preparing effectively.
Two months is possible with full-time focus, but most candidates need more time to master essay writing and case scenarios.
