Finally passed F 01 after two attempts — here's what actually helped

by lisa.prep 25 views3 replies
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lisa.prepOP
May 27, 2026

So I just got my results back this morning and I'm honestly still a little shocked. Passed with an 84, which is way better than my first attempt six weeks ago where I scraped a 61. I wanted to write this up while it's still fresh because I couldn't find much real info when I was searching around before my retake.

The biggest thing that changed my second attempt was actually using a structured F 01 practice test instead of just re-reading the material. I'd been doing the passive study thing — highlighting, re-reading chapters — and it clearly wasn't sticking. Switched to active recall about three weeks out and my weak spots became obvious fast. The sections on regulatory frameworks and compliance documentation were killing me. Once I knew that, I could actually focus.

I also found a solid F 01 study guide that broke down the competency domains by weight, which helped me stop wasting time on low-point areas. If anyone's prepping right now and wants to swap notes on specific exam tips or share what resources worked, drop a reply. Happy to help — I know how stressful the waiting period is.

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Mike_T
May 28, 2026
Two attempts is totally normal for this one, don't let anyone make you feel bad about it. I passed on my second try as well. What got me was time management — I was spending way too long on questions I wasn't sure about. Started flagging and moving on, came back at the end. Picked up probably 6-7 extra points just from not leaving blanks.
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Chloe W.
May 28, 2026
Congrats! I'm sitting mine in three weeks and the regulatory section is exactly where I'm struggling too. Did you find the actual exam questions were more scenario-based or more definition/recall? I've been drilling definitions but someone told me it's mostly applied scenarios. Would change how I'm spending my last few weeks of prep.
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Tyler B.
May 28, 2026
84 is a great score, well done. The practice tests really are the key — I did at least 4 full timed ones before my exam date. Gets you used to the pacing so test day doesn't feel like a shock.

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