Level I CFA candidates achieve 44% pass rate in first computer-based exams Getty Images Almost half of the first candidates to take their CFA Institute Level I examination under the new computer-based testing passed. Of 28,651 Level I candidates sitting the examination in February, 44% passed. Candidates sat for the examination at 850 test centers in 400 cities in 91 countries, a news release said. The computer-based testing proved to be more resistant to COVID-19-related cancellations due to an increased number of testing days and smaller centers, the CFA said. About 700 candidates experienced cancellations due to COVID-19 restrictions, with options to reschedule in the coming months. Candidates were also offered the option of deferring to a future testing date if they felt uncomfortable due to the pandemic.