First steps into finance: CFA Institute and students
Get ready to launch your finance career. CFA Institute is the leader in investment education, setting you up for success in finance, corporate banking, or investment management.
Why choose CFA Institute?
Over 130,000 finance students have already chosen CFA Institute to build their skills and financial knowledge. This is because we are widely considered the pinnacle for professional development in investment management. The education and training we offer is valued by employers for roles and functions in every sector of the global finance industry – from portfolio management, analysis, and private wealth to consulting.
CFA INSTITUTE
130k+
finance students
FINANCE EDUCATION
1,200
degree programs
AFFILIATED UNIVERSITIES
807
institutions
EARNINGS POTENTIAL
$267k
average total compensation
Enhanced career prospects
CFA® Charterholders are sought after by many leading financial service institutions including JPMorganChase, HSBC Holdings, and BlackRock.
Increased earning potential
The average base salaries of CFA® Charterholders increased at a greater rate (year over year) than the general market (source: CFA Institute Compensation Study, 2024.)
Personalized learning tools
When you study with us, you’ll have access to a smart, self-paced learning management platform to help you keep focused and on track.
Programs and certifications
As a student looking to take your first steps into a finance career, you can study a range of subjects with CFA Institute, including our 3-level flagship CFA® Program.
Careers and pathways
We’re developing the future leaders in finance. Learn more about the career pathways of past students and see where studying with us could take you.
Sign up below to gain free access to CFA Institute resources!
Other ways to get involved with CFA Institute
Research Challenge
Want to really excel and stand out as an elite investment professional? Then take on the CFA Institute Research Challenge.
This annual global competition provides you with hands-on mentoring and intensive training in financial analysis and professional ethics.
CFA Societies
Join your local CFA Society® and make a real difference in your career and the investment profession.
Membership to CFA Institute and your local society connects you with local and global investment professionals, growing your professional network.
You may also be interested in
Human skills you need for a career in finance
AI and new technology are changing how we work. Technical skills still matter, but human (or 'soft') skills are just as important. We look at which ones matter most if you want to get ahead in your finance career.
Thinking of a career as a credit rating analyst? Here’s my story
Sara Malinowsky, CFA, Director in the Funds team at Fitch Ratings in London, shares insight into the role of a credit rating analyst.
How to find the perfect mentor for your career goals
A successful mentoring relationship starts with the right mentor. Here, we offer practical advice on how to identify and connect with the perfect person to help you grow and succeed.
