Kaplan Schweser CFA review: the structured option
Schweser is the longest-established name in CFA prep, built around condensed study notes, a large question bank and a deep set of mock exams. It sells four tiers per level, and the tier you pick changes what you get far more than the brand does.
Based on Schweser’s published package details and 2026-cycle list prices as reported. Our score is an editorial research score built from published course details and the consensus of third-party reviews. It is not the result of our own testing.
What stands out
The core of every package is SchweserNotes, which condense the curriculum, plus the SchweserPro question bank. Where Schweser pulls ahead of cheaper options is mock exams: the Premium and Ultimate packages include six, against two on the Basic tier.
Premium also adds on-demand Masterclass instruction, a review workshop and Schweser’s Secret Sauce summary, along with PassProtection, which gives you a free retake of the study package if you do not pass.
What to watch for
The entry tier is described by Schweser itself as a supplement to the CFA Institute materials, and it has only two mocks, so most of what makes Schweser distinctive sits in the higher tiers. Prices here are for the 2026 cycle. Packages for the 2027 curriculum are on sale, so confirm the live price.
Packages
| Package | List price | What it adds | Our take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | $429 | Notes, question bank, 2 mock exams | A supplement to the CFA curriculum |
| Essential | $799 | More mocks (4) and study tools | Middle ground |
| Premium | $1,099 | On-demand classes, 6 mocks, review workshop, PassProtection | The tier to price up first |
| Ultimate | $1,499 | Adds live online instruction and printed materials | Only if you want live classes |
Level I list prices, 2026 cycle, US. Schweser discounts at various times of year.
Common questions
Does Schweser cover the 2027 curriculum?
Schweser sells packages for the 2027 exams. Because Level I changed the most in the 2027 curriculum, check that the package you buy is the 2027 edition if you sit in February 2027 or later.
What is PassProtection?
PassProtection is included with the Premium packages. It offers a free retake of the study package if you do not pass. Read the conditions at checkout, since eligibility terms apply.
The bottom line
Schweser is a safe, structured choice, and Premium is the tier that justifies the brand. If you are paying yourself and want to keep costs down, compare it against UWorld and AnalystPrep before deciding.