NorthStar Academy
15 Years Anniversary
FRM exam study plan template, FRM preparation tips, structured study schedule for FRM exam
👤 NorthStar Academy📅 26 Mar, 25⏱ 12 min read

FRM Exam Study Plan: Tips & Templates for Success

Are you fascinated by the global finance and accounting industry? You are not alone in your desire to enter this dynamic field. Many professionals and students aspire to work in international finance but struggle to secure global job opportunities. This challenge often arises because they rely solely on traditional degrees, which may not be enough. To enhance your career prospects, you must acquire advanced skills and professional qualifications like the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification.

The FRM certification equips you with practical knowledge and skills required for the real business world. However, successfully clearing the FRM exam requires meticulous preparation. This is why having a well-structured study plan is crucial.

Latest Updates :

Why You Need an Effective FRM Study Plan

The FRM exam is highly competitive and demands rigorous preparation. Without a strategic study plan, managing the vast syllabus can become overwhelming. An effective FRM study plan helps you:

  • Stay organized

  • Track progress efficiently

  • Allocate sufficient time to challenging topics

  • Manage stress effectively

By following a structured approach, you can streamline your learning process and optimize your chances of success.

Key Components of an FRM Study Plan

1. Understanding the FRM Exam Structure

The FRM exam consists of two parts:

  • FRM Part I: Focuses on foundational concepts such as risk management tools, quantitative analysis, financial markets, and valuation techniques.

  • FRM Part II: Builds on Part I concepts and covers market risk, credit risk, operational risk, and risk management in investment management.

Each part is a four-hour exam featuring 100 multiple-choice questions. Familiarizing yourself with the exam format will help you prepare strategically.

2. Gathering Study Materials

To build a strong foundation, gather all necessary study resources, including: Official GARP books Kaplan Schweser study notes Bionic Turtle's question bank and instructional videos Practice problems and mock tests FRM Bible and other reference materials

Using multiple resources will reinforce your understanding of key concepts and improve your problem-solving skills.

3. Creating a Study Schedule

A well-structured study schedule is essential for covering all topics efficiently. Here's a recommended timeline:

  • 6 Months Before the Exam: Start with an overview of the syllabus and gather study materials.

  • 4-5 Months Before the Exam: Deep dive into core topics, focusing on understanding complex concepts.

  • 2-3 Months Before the Exam: Solve practice problems, take mock tests, and identify weak areas.

  • 1 Month Before the Exam: Revise key concepts, review exam notes, and focus on time management.

4. Time Management Strategies

  • Allocate specific hours daily for studying

  • Incorporate weekly practice tests to assess progress

  • Break down complex topics into smaller, manageable sections

  • Set realistic goals and adhere to them consistently

5. Practicing Mock Tests and Exam Questions

Taking mock tests will:

  • Familiarize you with the exam format

  • Improve time management skills

  • Help identify weak areas that need improvement

  • Reinforce learning objectives

Use official GARP practice exams, Bionic Turtle™s question bank, and other reliable resources to enhance your preparation.

Personalizing Your Study Plan

Your study plan should be tailored to your learning style and availability. Customize your approach by:

  • Prioritizing weak topics

  • Adjusting study hours based on your schedule

  • Incorporating visual aids, videos, and discussion groups

  • Regularly evaluating and updating your study plan

FRM Course

The Global Association of Risk Professionals awards this certification. It is the best option for individuals aspiring to enter the international risk management industry. 

Eligibility

  • 10+2 educational qualification

FRM Exam Syllabus

FRM Exam Syllabus: Part 1

  • Foundations of Risk Management

  • Financial Markets and Products

  • Quantitative Aptitude

  • Valuation and Risk Models

FRM Exam Syllabus: Part 2 

Market Risk Management and Measurement Credit Risk Measurement and Management Risk and Investment Management Operational and Integrated Risk Management Financial Markets Current Issues

FRM Exam Timetable

Given below is the FRM exam window 2024: 

Exam Window

Part 1

Part 2

May, 2026

11th May - 17th May

12th May - 22nd May

August, 2026

9th August - 10th August

9th August - 10th August

November, 2026

9th November - 15th November

16th November - 19th November

FRM Study Materials

 Some of the most trusted FRM exam resources are-

  • GARP

  • Kaplan Schweser

  • AnalystPrep

FRM Course Fees

FRM Course Fees for Part 1 

New Candidates

Enrolment Fee: $400

Exam Fee: $600- $800

Total: $1000- $1200

Returning Candidates

Exam Fee: $600- $800

Total: $600- $800

FRM Course Fees for Part 2 

Exam Fee: $600- $800

FRM Course Duration

The typical FRM exam duration is between one and two years. This period involves building an FRM exam strategy and preparing for the examination. You will have to appear for the exams also during this term.

Read More :

Job Opportunities

Below are the top job roles that await you as an FRM:

  • Treasury Risk Manager

  • Credit Risk Manager

  • Risk Analyst

  • Market Risk Manager

  • Investment Analyst

  • Quantitative Analyst

  • Portfolio Manager

  • Claims Manager

Why Do You Need an Effective Study Plan for FRM?

You must know its importance before you start working on a FRM study planner. Although it offers several advantages, the most significant ones are listed below. 

Higher Productivity

FRM study plan splits the syllabus into small sections. It will help you know exactly what you need to do. Following such plans allows you to learn more effectively and retain your learning.

Time Management

An effective study plan for FRM is crucial for time management. It allocates sufficient time to each activity you perform in a day while still having enough time to cover every topic in the syllabus. Also, these plans provide you with enough time for the unpredicted. 

Stress Management

Another reason highlighting the importance of efficient FRM study plan is stress management. Study plans significantly help with reducing exam stress and anxiety. Staying organised will prevent rushing things at the last minute. It will also prevent you from piling up pending topics. All this will lower your stress and increase your confidence. 

Better Score Create your study plan in a manner in which you are properly acquainted with the entire syllabus one month before the examination. You will have quite a lower score than desired if you prepare in a short period. On the other hand, you will gain a much better score if you follow a study plan. 

Sample FRM Study Schedule

FRM Study Plan for Part 1

Weeks 1-3

  • Cover Foundations of Risk Management: 20% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 3

Weeks 4-7

  • Cover Quantitative Analysis: 20% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 7

Weeks 8-10

  • Cover Financial Markets and Products: 30% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 10

Weeks 11- 14

  • Cover Valuation and Risk Models: 30% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 14

Week 14 to Exam Day

  • Revise everything

  • Practice questions regularly

  • Give mock tests

FRM Study Plan for Part 2

Weeks 1- 4

  • Cover Market Risk Management and Measurement: 20% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 4

Weeks 5- 7

  • Cover Credit Risk Measurement and Management: 20% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 7

Weeks 8- 10

  • Cover Operation Risk and Resiliency: 20% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 10

Weeks 11- 12

  • Cover Liquidity and Treasury Risk Measurement: 15% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 12

Week 13- 14 

  • Cover Risk and Investment Management: 15% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 14

Week 15 

  • Cover Current Issues in Financial Markets: 10% weightage 

  • Practice questions at the end of Week 15

Week 15 to Exam Day

  • Revise everything

  • Practice questions regularly

  • Give mock tests

FRM Study Plan Creation Tips

Are you confused about how to create a study plan for FRM? Follow the below-listed tips. 

Get into a Study Routine Early

Starting early is the key to success. This FRM exam study guide suggests you get into your preparation routine early. You must start studying for it as soon as you decide to achieve the certification. Also, follow the below schedule to allocate time efficiently. 30-40% for preparation 40-50% for practice 20% for performance

Focus on Practical Learning

Professional certification courses are all about practicality. So, apply everything to real-life situations that you learn in the FRM exam syllabus. It will enhance your understanding and result in better knowledge retention. 

Mock Tests

One of the top FRM exam study techniques is to regularly give mock tests. These tests will help you familiarise yourself with the exam pattern. Attempting mock tests will test your knowledge. They'll additionally identify your weaknesses and strengths. Additionally, they allow you to test your exam strategies and alter them for more efficiency. 

Choose NorthStar Academy Preparing for the FRM course with the help of a reputed coaching institute helps optmise your exam preparation on a whole new level. It is a good idea to study with the help of NorthStar's FRM course. You will get access to world-class study materials and engaging learning sessions with industry experts.

Conclusion

Good preparation is essential to unlocking success in competitive examinations. It is no exception to the FRM course. You must prepare with no gaps left. Covering each topic and enhanced memorisation is essential for better scores. That is why you must prepare a successful FRM study plan. It will help you organise everything. Also, the effective time allocation will keep you away from exam stress and anxiety. 

Enrol in the expert FRM program by NorthStar Academy to ace your preparation. Our qualified teachers understand the dilemma and challenges of preparing for competitive examinations. However, we also understand the several benefits these certifications bring to the table. As a result, we help each student build a personalised FRM study plan and strategise their preparation journey. Achieving the FRM certification gets easier for you with our expert guidance and study plans. 

Contact us on WhatsApp to learn more about our FRM course. 

Trending Blogs

Course

Links

ACCA

CMA US

CPA US

Enrolled Agent

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components of a successful FRM study plan?

The key components of an effective FRM study plan are as follows. 

  • Practical time allocation

  • Effective time management

  • Start early

  • Focus on the subject's weightage

  • Mock tests

How can I determine the amount of time I need to dedicate to studying for the FRM exams?

Studying for FRM usually requires 1 to 1.5 years. This period is equally divided into two parts. However, you can also shorten this period with complete dedication. Students can even elongate this period according to their strengths. 

Are there any recommended templates or tools available for creating an organised FRM study plan?

Copying, pasting, and following are not the solutions for creating an FRM study plan. However, you can refer to trusted online resources for a sample study plan and then personalise it with the guidance of your mentors.