Is the CFA Right for You

Not everyone is meant to work in finance. It’s a highly competitive industry that requires an elevated calibre of professional intellect and skillset. Not everyone is cut out for the CFA course, either. It is one of the most rigorous yet rewarding certifications that gives you a strong foundation in investment management.

There are so many reasons why finance profiles are held in such high esteem. You may have to put in a lot of hard work, effort and focus, but you get so much more in return. The CFA course is specially designed to put you on the right path. The syllabus is structured to include the most relevant concepts, theoretical knowledge, quantitative tools and real-world skills. CFA holders enter the industry with confidence and competence. For some professionals, the certification is the perfect launchpad for a successful finance career. So who should do the CFA program? Are you one of the prestigious few who can boast of a CFA stamp on your CV?

Who should do the CFA course?

Here are some candidates for whom the CFA course is a perfect fit.

  1. Professionals looking to change job profiles 

The finance industry has various designations that carry out different responsibilities. A CFA course has the capacity to create future finance professionals such as bankers, equity research analysts, financial advisors and risk consultants. The syllabus is intensive and detailed, offering a real-world perspective into various fields. So, if you are already working in the finance industry but hoping for a change in company or profile, the CFA program can help you realise your goals. You get the advantage of moving upwards or sideways in the industry, as the CFA certification makes you a well-rounded, highly knowledgeable individual. So if this applies to you, then you can be one of the professionals who should do the CFA course.

Also Read – CFA Jobs & Salaries In India After CFA Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3

  1. Professionals who want to enhance their existing degrees

Do you have a B.Com or M.Com degree, or even an MBA, in finance? Then, a CFA can add more value to your current set of qualifications. This is one of the best instances of individuals who should do the CFA course. The program helps you delve deeper into the world of investment management. The syllabus teaches core topics, relevant skills and a deep understanding of the finance industry. Many top investment firms and finance companies understand the value this qualification brings to the table. Working professionals who have been in the industry for a long time and want to update their resume also benefit from doing the CFA course.

  1. Professionals who want to work with the top finance firms 

Companies such as Deloitte, PwC, JP Morgan and Morningstar are picky about who they hire. They want highly educated professionals who can think out of the box and have a practical approach to finance. CFA-certified candidates fit this description perfectly. They are prepared to work in competitive environments, understand how the markets operate and have great insights. So if you want to work in the big league, then you are someone who should do the CFA course.

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  1. Professionals who want to be updated on financial knowledge 

Your education should never be stagnant. If it has been years since you received your last degree, then you are an individual who should do the CFA. Every year, a new crop of professionals enter the workforce. They come hungry, determined and well-educated on the latest developments in finance. You don’t want to be left behind. A CFA certification ensures you stay ahead of the new generation. You get updated on everything that happens in the investment markets and financial sectors. So if you feel your career has reached a plateau, maybe it is time to sharpen your mind with the CFA course.

  1. Professionals who don’t have an MBA

The coveted MBA finance degree can help you get top jobs within the industry. But what if you don’t have one? Maybe you don’t have the time to do one, or maybe your MBA is from a second or third-tier college. Whatever the reason may be, those who can’t boast of a top-level MBA are those who should do the CFA course. The certification is globally recognised as one of the best finance programs. The syllabus is an intensive and rigorous study of portfolio management and investment banking. The CFA is the next best thing to an MBA degree and very often complements professionals who are MBA holders.

Also Read – CFA or MBA in Finance? Decide the Best Course in 2024 for Global Career Opportunities

  1. Professionals who want better job prospects

If you are hoping to make a significant contribution to the world of investment banking, then you are definitely someone who should do the CFA course. A CFA prepares you for the challenges and pressures of the investment banking industry. You are qualified to analyse financial opportunities, make informed decisions and successfully navigate the tricky terrain that makes up the finance world. The leading finance companies are aware of the abilities of a CFA-certified professional. When it comes to nabbing exciting jobs with MNCs, earning promotions or moving up the ranks of the company, a CFA can help you get there.

Why you should do the CFA course with Proschool

The CFA course is a tough nut to crack. You really have to earn the honour of calling yourself a charter holder. While you can study for the CFA exams on your own, it makes better sense to learn with an experienced team of coaching professionals such as those who teach at IMS Proschool. The faculty consists of CFA charter holders who use their expertise in the industry to help the next generation of chartered financial analysts. The professors offer a customised and strategic nine-month study plan, where the last three months are kept solely for revision. Students are taken through the syllabus topic by topic, through real-life examples, case studies and projects. The emphasis is on comprehension and practical application. The staff is also very approachable and hands-on, offering personalised attention to those who need it.

Here are a few more advantages of studying with Proschool:

  • There are 2,000 practice papers, several mock tests and a fully stocked learning library available to all students.
  • You can take classes at the nearest coaching centre or learn through online sessions.
  • Proschool has a solid track record of helping a large number of students pass the CFA course.
  • You can use Proschool’s placement program to find jobs after the course is completed.
  • The staff also helps students with interview etiquette and resume writing skills.
  • Many students who have studied with Proschool have gone on to land jobs with some of the top companies in India.
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FAQs

Is the CFA course useful?

If you are hoping to work in the investment management business, then the answer is yes. A CFA qualification is a very valuable recruitment currency for those looking to get hired by leading companies and earn lucrative salaries. The CFA is reputed to be one of the most prestigious certifications in the world, with many charter holders in high-paying positions with prolific organisations. If that sounds good to you, then you should do the CFA course.

How do I prepare for the CFA exams?

The CFA Institute advises all students to dedicate 300 hours of study time per CFA level. Now, you can do this on your own. But what happens when you have too many doubts or are unable to understand certain concepts? A reliable coaching institute such as IMS Proschool can help you study the syllabus through innovative learning methods and practical training. You also get access to practice papers and mock tests, which most CFA holders credit as strategic study tools that helped them pass the exams.

Can anyone from a non-finance background do the CFA course?

Yes. The CFA is open to students who don’t have a financial background. The main requirements for enrolment are that you should have a graduate degree from a recognised college and you must hold a valid passport. If finance is the right profession for you, then you are the one who should do the CFA course.

What opportunities can I expect after doing the CFA course?

There are many exciting job opportunities to explore after you complete the CFA program, such as:

  • Portfolio Manager
  • Investment Banker
  • Risk Analyst
  • Equity Research Analyst
  • Financial Analyst
  • Financial Consultant

Some of the companies who hire CFA holders are:

  • EY
  • PwC
  • Credit Suisse
  • HSBC
  • Goldman Sachs
  • Citigroup

Conclusion 

Make no mistake. The road to getting a CFA certification will not be easy. You will be expected to work hard and dedicate your time towards passing the course. However, the rewards will be very satisfying. As a CFA charter holder, you will become one of the most qualified and competent finance professionals, and your resume will help you land good jobs in the industry. If that sounds good to you, then you are the perfect candidate who should do the CFA program.