Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
December 11, 2023
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program is a globally recognized professional credential offered by the CFA Institute. It’s designed for individuals in the finance and investment industry who want to enhance their expertise in investment analysis, portfolio management, and ethical standards.
Introduction:
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) programme is a globally recognised professional credential offered by the CFA Institute. It’s designed for individuals in the finance and investment industry who want to enhance their expertise in investment analysis, portfolio management, and ethical standards. The programme consists of three levels, each with a comprehensive curriculum and an exam that assesses candidates’ knowledge and skills in areas like economics, ethics, quantitative methods, financial reporting, and more. Earning the CFA designation demonstrates a high level of proficiency and commitment to the investment field.
Key Points
A. Who Should Enrol?
The CFA programme is suitable for individuals who are looking to advance their careers in the finance and investment industry. It’s particularly relevant for professionals involved in roles such as investment analysts, portfolio managers, financial advisors, research analysts, and other roles that require a deep understanding of investment management and analysis. Aspiring candidates should have a strong academic background, a passion for finance, and a dedication to furthering their knowledge and skills in investment-related topics.
B. Topic Areas
- Ethical and Professional Standards
- Quantitative Methods
- Economics
- Financial Statement Analysis
- Corporate Issuers
- Equity Investments
- Fixed Income
- Derivatives
- Alternative Investments
- Portfolio Management
C. Exam Format
| Level | Format | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Multiple choice questions | 4.5 Hours split into 2 sessions with an optional break |
| 2 | Item set comprised of vignettes and multiple-choice questions | 4.5 Hours split into 2 sessions with an optional break |
| 3 | Item set comprised of vignettes, multiple-choice items, and constructed response (essay) questions | 4.5 Hours split into 2 sessions with an optional break |
D. Exam Window
| Level | February | May | August | November |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 2 | – | √ | √ | √ |
| 3 | √ | – | √ | – |
Benefits
- Global Recognition: The CFA designation is respected worldwide, enhancing job prospects and career mobility in the finance industry
- Enhanced Skills: Completing the programme equips candidates with advanced analytical and decision-making skills crucial for investment roles
- Career Opportunities: The CFA designation opens doors to higher-paying positions and increased job opportunities in investment analysis and portfolio management
Course Details:
Duration:
5 – 6 months per Level
Attendance:
100% attendance required
Assessments:
Periodic assessment and mock exams
Entry Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree – Complete a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) and obtain certification from the respective college or university
- Undergraduate Student – Your selected exam window must be within 23 months from the graduation month of your bachelor’s degree or equivalent programme
- Professional Work Experience – Completed a combination of 4,000 hours of work experience over a span of at least 36 months
- Have a combination of work and college experience that totals at least three years
Accreditation:
CFA Institute
