If you’re considering a career in Finance, chances are that CFA Certification Program has come up in conversation or research. From global recognition to distinguishing yourself in your field, having this professional qualification can go far in helping your journey as a financial professional.
Before we discuss why enrolling in a CFA course is worthwhile, let’s outline the requirements needed to pass this examination. It is a 5-hour exam divided into 2 parts of 2.5 hours each containing 120 questions each and can take up to 5 attempts before reaching certification status. There are 3 levels which must be passed in order to obtain this credential.
Though it can be an exhausting process, the results from your efforts would make the effort worth your while!
Are You Wondering If CFA Certification Is Worth it? Deciding to enroll in a Certified Financial Analysis course can be daunting! So let’s examine some compelling arguments as to why taking such an arduous path could prove useful for your career development.
1. An Exemplary CV
CFA certification is one of the highest accolades and sought-after credentials for finance personnel, so having it on your CV will distinguish you among applicants looking for jobs and leave an impressive impression with any employer. Not only will you demonstrate extensive knowledge in wealth management and finance academics, but passing CFA exams requires hard work, discipline and perseverance – an achievement which could take months of hard work before its success is accomplished!
Through industrialization and globalization, CFA has quickly become the industry gold standard in recent decades. Comprised of three levels that cover fundamental to advanced levels in one subject area, having CFA certification on your resume signals to industry professionals that you possess an in-depth knowledge in multiple aspects of finance.
Are You Seeking Details on Becoming a CFA, Chartered Financial Analyst?
2. CFA Vs MBA: Which One Is Right
Many debate whether a CFA charter or MBA are superior choices, yet one can clearly see that CFA is much more affordable. An average 2-year MBA from an acclaimed institute costs significantly more than CFA programs and must be studied full-time to complete, while with the latter option you can go about your daily life and prepare part-time as needed for completion.
Financial experts advise giving yourself 2-3 months for preparation, but if you already work in financial services you’ll require less time. There’s no need to attend university and deal with attendance issues; everything now happens online from start to finish!
CFA and MBA both offer comprehensive courses designed to increase financial knowledge. Both offer tools in quantitative analysis, economics, portfolio creation and wealth management. Deciding between them depends entirely on individual needs and preferences.
CFA may be ideal if you are new to financial fields and seeking to distinguish yourself and advance your knowledge; alternatively, an MBA would allow you to gain expertise beyond finance alone and explore more industries.
No matter the situation, pursuing both degrees simultaneously is best advised: either CFA followed by MBA or vice versa will expand your industry knowledge and help secure high performing jobs – this brings us to our third compelling reason: job security.
3. Expanded Job Opportunities
A CFA charter can open doors to better job opportunities in your career. In 2012, the CFA Institute released their list of the Top Ten Employers of Chartered Financial Analysts which featured global conglomerates like JP Morgan, CitiBank, HSBC Bank of America Merrill Lynch among many more. Achieving CFA certification can enhance existing financial field roles or help transition you into them successfully.
After earning their CFA certification, job roles available include those related to asset management such as Portfolio manager, private banker, fund manager, financial advisor or relationship manager. Furthermore, people often become risk managers, equity analysts or financial strategists – though even non-financial professionals such as doctors and lawyers sometimes enroll for CFA exams in order to gain command of capital market study for personal wealth management purposes.
For more details on CFA Salary in India, USA and Canada please take a look at CFA Salary Comparison Tool
4. Global Networking
An internationally acclaimed certification like CFA opens doors and facilitates networking across borders. The CFA Institute boasts over 1,35,000 investment professionals who belong to its network; CFA holders can be found all over Europe, Asia, North America and Canada – that’s quite an impressive circle! Furthermore, universities across 30 nations recognize and value CFA certification; so wherever your travels take you – your CFA certification would always be recognized and rewarded!
Your studies in wealth management and equity analysis from a global index perspective. You will become acquainted with international exchanges such as NASDAQ or NYSE and trading of international stocks – unlike IFA courses which only cover Indian issues. Gaining this exposure could prove extremely advantageous for your future career development in this area.
5. Confidence in Financial Field
As previously discussed, having a globally-recognized course on your resume gives you a distinct edge over competitors in the market. Not only will it improve your knowledge but it will also boost your confidence to speak in front of a room of finance professionals effectively and communicate clearly – potentially opening doors at key investment firms or private banking institutions.
Are You Exploring CFA? Gain More Knowledge About the Initial Exam
CFA Certification Course: Final Review
While certification can help secure employment, its success ultimately rests with you and depends on the efforts put forth through operations and work ethic.
CFA Institute research indicates that those holding it are respected within their industry and respected themselves. Research by this body showed a substantial rise in employee salaries upon passing all three levels of CFA certification exams; clearly CFA certification acts as an additional asset and increases net worth significantly.
Still uncertain of your decision to pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst charter? Your personal preferences and interests will play a major role. Let us know if any queries arise regarding taking the CFA examination.
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