The curriculum, designed by a committee of practicing CFA charterholders in conjunction with CFA Institute staff, is the main source of study to get prepared for each level of the exam program.
CFA Institute believes that candidates need to commit to a minimum of 250 hours reading and reviewing the curriculum and taking online sample and mock exams to master the material (learn more about scheduling your time). This recommendation, however, may substantially underestimate the hours needed for appropriate exam preparation depending on individual circumstances and academic background.