How to Become CFA – Step-by-Step Guide by FINAIM
Are you passionate about a career in finance, investment banking, or portfolio management? Then becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) could be your smartest move. Whether you’re a student, MBA graduate, or working professional, this blog from FINAIM will walk you through how to become CFA step-by-step.
Let’s dive into the most complete, beginner-friendly guide on how to become a CFA — and how FINAIM helps you crack it with confidence.
What is CFA?
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is a globally recognized credential awarded by the CFA Institute, USA. It’s considered the gold standard in the world of investment analysis, asset management, and corporate finance.
Over 190,000 professionals hold the CFA charter worldwide.
Why Become a CFA?
-
High-paying job roles in finance
-
Global recognition
-
Strong credibility in the industry
-
Access to a powerful network of finance professionals
-
Valuable technical knowledge in equity, fixed income, derivatives, ethics, and portfolio management
How to Become CFA: Step-by-Step
🔹 Step 1: Meet the CFA Eligibility Criteria
To register for CFA Level 1, you must:
-
Be in the final year of your bachelor’s degree OR
-
Have a bachelor’s degree (any stream) OR
-
Have 4,000 hours of professional work experience (or a mix of education + work)
💡 Tip by FINAIM: You can start CFA alongside your graduation or post-graduation (like MBA) to save time.
Step 2: Enroll in the CFA Program
Go to www.cfainstitute.org and register for the CFA Level 1 Exam.
You’ll need:
A valid passport
To pay the one-time enrollment fee (~$350)
To pay the exam fee (~$900 early-bird, ~$1,200 standard)
💡 FINAIM can help you with CFA registration guidance and exam preparation strategy.
Step 3: Pass All Three CFA Levels
There are three levels in the CFA program:
Level I – Investment Tools (Basic knowledge)
Level II – Asset Valuation (In-depth analysis)
Level III – Portfolio Management (Application and ethics)
Each level requires 300–400 hours of study, and passing rates range from 35% to 50%.
💪 At FINAIM, our students achieve a higher-than-average pass rate thanks to expert-led classes and smart revision plans.
L
Step 4: Gain Work Experience
To receive your official CFA Charter, you must complete 4,000 hours (around 3 years) of relevant work experience in finance, investment, banking, or analysis. You can do this before, during, or after passing the exams.
🔹 Step 5: Apply for the CFA Charter
Once you’ve passed all exams and completed your work experience:
-
Submit references
-
Apply to become a CFA charterholder
-
Join the CFA Institute as a regular member
And just like that — you become a CFA Charterholder, a globally respected designation!
Why Choose FINAIM to Become a CFA?
At FINAIM, we specialize in guiding students and professionals on how to become CFA, with full mentorship and coaching for all 3 levels.
Here’s what you get with FINAIM:
-
📚 Live + recorded classes by CFA experts
-
🧠 Personalized study plans for working professionals
-
✅ Mock tests, notes & doubt-clearing sessions
-
💼 Placement and interview support
-
🧑🏫 1-on-1 mentorship for CFA career planning
-
💰 Affordable CFA coaching plans
Whether you’re starting CFA after MBA, B.Com, or Engineering — FINAIM is your perfect learning partner..
| CFA Level | Exam Format | Exam Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level I | Multiple Choice | 4.5 hours | 4 times a year |
| Level II | Item Set Format | 4.5 hours | 3 times a year |
| Level III | Essay + Case | 4.5 hours | 2 times a year |
📌 Note: All exams are now computer-based.
Career Opportunities After CFA
After becoming a CFA, you can land jobs such as:
-
Equity Research Analyst
-
Portfolio Manager
-
Investment Banker
-
Risk Manager
-
Corporate Finance Analyst
-
Financial Consultant
-
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)