How to Become CFA In India – Exams, Fees, Books & FAQ’s

Initially, CFA (i.e. Chartered Financial Analyst) Course could be either pursued from ICFAI India or CFA Institute USA. Now, Students in India can no longer enroll for the Chartered Financial Analyst programme offered by the ICFAI (Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India) University.

In an out-of-court settlement with the US-based Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute, ICFAI University has decided that no fresh admissions will be taken up for CFA programme, in accordance with its settlement agreement. The institute has stopped admitting students since May this year. (Official Announcement & Complete Story)

So, Going forward if one needs to become CFA In India, the CFA Institute is the only destination and this article shall analyse the course details, exams structures and potential career of such qualified CFA’s In India with more so interesting radar of Salaries one can expect after qualifying CFA. Let’s get started !

What Is the CFA Charter?

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is a mark of distinction, globally recognized by employers, investment professionals, and investors as the definitive standard by which to measure serious investment professionals.

Enter the CFA Program

Entrance Requirements

To enroll in the CFA Program and register for your first exam, you must have:

• An international travel passport (read the ID policy) and
• One of the following:
  • Undergraduate education: A bachelor’s (or equivalent) degree or be in the final year of your bachelor’s degree program (you will be required to update your education information before you can register for the Level II exam), or
  • Work experience: Four years of professional work experience (does not have to be investment related), or
  • A combination of professional work experience and education that totals at least four years (part-time positions do not qualify, and the four-year total must be accrued prior to enrollment).

The exam registration fee covers the cost of

• The eBook (contains the complete curriculum you need to study)*
• An interactive study planner to guide and track your exam preparation
• Topic-based practice tests
• Mock exams
• A mobile study app with access to everything listed above

The CFA Program includes a series of three exams; Levels I, II, and III. The exams:

• Are offered annually — at test centers around the world — on the first Saturday in June. The Level I exam is also offered in December.
• Must be passed sequentially.
• Are available in English only.

The exam content, learning focus, and question format increase in complexity with each level.

Curriculum Content and Learning Focus

An example showing the increase in complexity is the ethical and professional standards curriculum content. This content is similar for each exam level; however, candidates are asked different types of questions:

• Level I tests your knowledge of the ethical and professional standards.
• Level II tests how you apply those standards to situations analysts face.
• Level III tests how you apply the standards in a portfolio management and compliance context.

In general:

• Level I exams consists of basic knowledge and comprehension questions focused on investment tools; some questions will require analysis.
• Level II exams emphasize more complex analysis, along with a focus on valuing assets.
• Level III exams require synthesis of all the concepts and analytical methods in a variety of applications for effective portfolio management and wealth planning.

Test Center Locations In India

As a member of CFA Institute, you have embraced the highest standards in your profession. Are you ready to make an impact? Learn more

Benefits of Membership

• Connect with a global network of more than 110,000 investment professionals known for their expertise and integrity
• Gain access to outstanding financial publications, education resources, and specialized career services
• Obtain member discounts at our events worldwide