CFA: Course details, Eligibility, Exam Pattern

CFA stands for Chartered Financial Analyst. It is one of the most recognized qualifications in the world of finance. This course is a postgraduate professional qualification which is globally recognized. Here we will discuss about CFA Course details and other exam related information.

The entire CFA course is divided into 3 levels, which you need to pass subsequently and then have relevant 4-year experience in the field of finance.

If you are someone who has a great interest in finance specifically in Financial Markets, then this course is perfect for you.

A CFA course uplifts your career in the various finance fields. It is one of the prestigious courses not only in India but also abroad.

It covers all the contents required for the investment industry like equity, fixed income, derivatives, private equity and real estate.

Let's understand 3 levels of examinations of CFA.

CFA Eligibility:

The CFA Eligibility for a candidate is as follows-

1. A Bachelor degree in any stream or course from a recognized college or institute is eligible.
2. A student from a Finance background is very much preferable.
3. A candidate must complete their bachelor degree before their CFA level 2 examination. 

 CFA Exam Pattern

There are three levels of exams to qualify as a CFA:

CFA Exam pattern Level 1:

There are a total of 240 MCQ based questions, there are two sessions that are morning and evening, each for 3 hours.

The exam subjects include:

1. Financial Reporting Analysis
2. Ethics and Professional Standards
3. Quantitative Analyses
4. Fixed Income Analysis
5. Equity Investment
6. Economic 

CFA Exam Pattern Level 2 :

In Level 2, there is more in-depth knowledge than level 1.

There is a lot to learn and understand, in terms of practicality of the subjects.

There are two sessions in the morning as well as in the evening same as level one.

The exam subjects include:

1. Financial Reporting Analysis
2. Ethics and Professional Standards
3. Quantitative Analyses
4. Fixed Income Analysis
5. Equity Investment
6. Economic 

The format of this level is in the form of item sets or mini-cases.

It focuses more on the application of investment tools and concepts with a focus on the valuation of all types of assets.

CFA Exam pattern Level 3

The exam format for level three is similar as the level 2.There are 10 to 15 essay type questions in the morning session. In the afternoon session, there are 19 item sets. 

The exam subjects include:

1. Financial Reporting Analysis
2. Ethics and Professional Standards
3. Quantitative Analyses
4. Fixed Income Analysis
5. Equity Investment
6. Economic 

The topics or the subjects of each level are similar but as you go to the upper level, the level of difficulty increases. This exam tests your knowledge in the field of portfolio management, strategies, investment objectives etc.

The secret to success for this course is practice, as we say 'Practice makes the man Perfect', the more you practice the easier the subject will be for you. This was the complete CFA Details that you should know. The next step is to prioritize your study schedule, plan your daily timetable and most important study daily. Good Luck!

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