Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
A global professional certification for investment banking, equity research and portfolio management.
Description
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) programme, governed by the CFA Institute (USA), is one of the most respected global certifications in finance. It covers investment banking, equity research, options trading, portfolio management, fixed income and ethical standards.
The programme is structured in three levels — CFA Level I, II and III — each requiring a deep understanding of financial markets, valuation, economics, accounting and portfolio strategy. Students typically combine the CFA with a bachelor’s degree, studying in parallel.
CFA charterholders work as investment bankers, equity research analysts, portfolio managers, risk managers and financial advisors in investment banks, asset management firms, hedge funds and consulting firms. The qualification is recognised globally and opens doors to international finance careers.
Entrance Exams
CFA Level I
CFA Institute (USA)
Entry-level exam covering ethics, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting, equity and fixed income. Held four times a year.
CFA Level II
CFA Institute (USA)
Intermediate level focused on asset valuation and deep analysis of financial instruments.
CFA Level III
CFA Institute (USA)
Final level focused on portfolio management, wealth planning and applied strategies.
Job Roles
Investment Banker
Advises companies on mergers, acquisitions, IPOs and capital raising.
Equity Research Analyst
Analyses companies and sectors to produce research reports and investment recommendations.
Portfolio Manager
Manages investment portfolios and asset allocation for funds and clients.
Risk Manager
Identifies and manages financial risks across portfolios and trading desks.
Financial Advisor (Wealth Management)
Advises high-net-worth individuals and families on investments and financial planning.
Salary
Fresher (post-Level I / entry)
Investment banks and global firms pay at the higher end.
Mid-level (post-Level II / 3–6 yrs)
Equity research and portfolio roles command a premium.
Senior (Charterholder / 7+ yrs)
Charterholders in global investment banks and funds earn well above this range.
Top Colleges / Institutes
- CFA Institute (global body, exam-based — no college admission)
- Top colleges for base education: SRCC (Delhi), St. Stephen’s (Delhi), IIM (postgrad)
- Coaching: Kaplan Schweser, Wiley, Zerodha Varsity