Is the CFA® Program worth it?
The CFA Program is worth pursuing for professionals serious about a career in investment and finance. The CFA® charter is widely considered one of the most globally respected credentials in the industry.
90%
of hiring managers prefer CFA® charterholders for executive positions
$267k
Average total compensation across all job functions
200k+ charterholders
The largest worldwide network of investment professionals
What does it mean to complete the CFA Program?
Trusted and sought after by employers around the globe, the CFA® charter signals your dedication, ambition, and drive towards excellence in the industry. As a charterholder, you join the world’s largest community of investment professionals who uphold the highest standards of education, principles, and ethics in finance.
To become a charterholder, you will complete the CFA Program, qualifying work experience, and apply for membership.
What do finance professionals gain when they earn the CFA® designation?
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Global recognition
The Chartered Financial Analyst® designation is respected by employers worldwide and recognized across investment management, asset management, research, and wealth management.
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Deep investment expertise
The three levels of the CFA Program curriculum cover portfolio management, equity and fixed income analysis, financial modeling, ethics and professional standards, and alternative investments.
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Potential career and salary impact
Professionals pursue the CFA designation when they want to access new roles in investment management, strengthen opportunities for advancement, and build credibility with employers and clients.
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Strong return on investment
Compared with many graduate programs, the CFA Program can offer a lower-cost path to specialized finance expertise. And year-over-year, CFA Institute members and CFA charterholders enjoy a greater rate of salary increase than increases in the general market.
Is the CFA Program worth it for you?
Becoming a CFA Program candidate may be right for you if you’re looking to:
- Build specialized investment expertise.
- Advance in asset management or research.
- Stand out in a competitive finance market.
- Gain a globally recognized credential.
The CFA Program may be less relevant if your goals are primarily entrepreneurship, pursuing general management leadership, or career switching outside finance.
CFA charter ROI: The investment you’ll make in the CFA Program
Time commitment
The CFA Program requires discipline and long-term commitment.
Cost
Total program costs are competitive and often lower than alternatives such as graduate degrees.
Career goals
The value of completing the CFA Program depends on how closely the charter aligns with your long-term goals.
Common careers for CFA charterholders
Portfolio Manager
Learn how to build and manage portfolios and understand capital allocation across multiple investments.
Research Analyst
Gain the analytical framework, financial knowledge, and ethical foundation to produce well-supported research.
Wealth Advisor
Develop the investment knowledge, portfolio management skills, and ethical foundation you need.
Risk Manager
Learn the analytical, quantitative, and portfolio management skills to identify, assess, and manage investment risk across financial markets.
Investment Consultant
Gain the necessary technical expertise, analytical skills, and client-focused perspective.
Frequently asked questions
Is the CFA Program worth it for career growth?
For many finance professionals, yes, particularly in investment-focused roles. Explore the CFA Program.
Is the CFA Program a better value compared to an MBA?
It depends on whether you want specialized investment expertise or broader business leadership skills. Compare the CFA Program to an MBA.
Is the CFA Program difficult?
The CFA Program is rigorous and requires significant preparation, but many candidates find the long-term value worthwhile.
Still Deciding?
Find out if the CFA Program aligns with your goals.
