Marcelo de Pozo/ReutersIn December, 52,315 aspiring finance buffs took the first level of the notoriously tough Chartered Financial Analyst exam. Only 42% of them passed. That's in line with historical pass rates for Level I of the three-part exam. In June, 42% of candidates passed the Level 1, while 44% passed last December's test. Level II and III exams are only offered once a year — in June. Becoming a CFA charter holder is a huge leg up for anyone hoping to build a career in investment management.