Can I use my CFA Level 1 to justify a GMAT waiver?

Question

Jayant M · Accepted Answer

Just passing CFA Level 1 isn&rsquo;t usually enough by itself to get a GMAT waiver, but it can still add weight to your overall case.
&bull; CFA Level II or III is preferred, but Level 1 can help if supported by relevant experience like preparing monthly budget forecasts, building cash flow models, or working in credit or risk analysis.
&bull; Academic support helps, mention if you scored 75% or above in subjects like corporate finance, econometrics, or business statistics.
&bull; For verbal reasoning, include examples like delivering client presentations, writing investment briefs, or leading meetings with cross-functional teams.
&bull; Schools want to see that you can both analyze data and communicate insights clearly.
If you combine CFA Level 1 with real, documented strengths in both quant and verbal areas, you have a stronger shot at a waiver.

Divakshi Arora · Answer

CFA Level 1 can help support a GMAT waiver request, but on its own, it&rsquo;s rarely enough. Most schools that grant waivers look for CFA Level II or above, since that covers a wider range of technical and quantitative skills. If you're at Level 1, you&rsquo;ll need to pair it with a strong academic and professional track record.
For example, if your undergrad was in engineering, economics, or mathematics with a GPA of 3.3 or higher, and you took subjects like statistics, linear algebra, or financial accounting, that adds value. Professionally, roles where you've built valuation models, created dashboards in Excel, or worked with tools like SQL or Power BI for performance tracking are worth highlighting. These show real quantitative application.
Also, if you're enrolled for CFA Level II, include that in your waiver letter&mdash;it signals continued depth in financial knowledge.