CFA Program

The Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) credential is an internationally recognized badge of distinction in the investment industry.

In any language, these three letters stand for a deep knowledge of all things investing, a commitment to ethics and a passion for always putting investors first. The CFA® Program provides a strong foundation of advanced investment analysis and real-world portfolio management skills that will give you a career advantage.

Ramona Rückbeil, CFA

"Through the CFA Program I have deepened my investment knowledge and gained access to a global network of experts. The opportunity to keep up to date on investment topics and trends through the CFA network has become indispensable for me in my international professional life."

International

1

The CFA Charter has a high international renown and is recognized in many countries through the internationally standardized examination.

Career Booster

2

The CFA program can help accelerate your career in the investment industry and might open a few doors for you.

Practice-oriented

3

The curriculum is developed by practitioners. It convinces with its practical relevance.

Ethics

4

With the CFA charter you emphasize your commitment to transparency and adherence to the highest ethical standards.

Structure of the CFA Program

The CFA Program is divided into three exams (= levels) and is designed for self-study in parallel to your job or studies. The complexity of the curriculum increases from level to level. Candidates report dedicating in excess of 300 hours of study to prepare for each exam. The exams are computer-based and are held in English at many examination centers worldwide. The program and exams are fully administered by the CFA Institute.

Entrance Requirements

Undergraduate education

Either you have a bachelor's (or equivalent) degree or are in the penultimate year of your bachelor's degree program.
Or

Combination of both

A combination of professional work experience and education that totals at least four years.

Work experience

You have four years of professional work experience (does not have to be investment related).
Or

ID

You need a valid international passport (read the ID policy). Furthermore one of the other conditions must also be met.

Candidate Membership

Our Candidate membership is the ideal complement to your exam preparation. You will benefit from the numerous membership advantages right from the start.

Become a Candidate Member now

The path to the charter

Pass exams

Pass all three levels of the CFA Program exams

1

Work experience

Have 4,000 hours of professional work experience of professional work experience in the investment decision-making process accumulated in a minimum of 36 months.

2