CFA

The CFA is a self study graduate level program for financial analysts. To earn the charter a person has to study for and clear a series of three exams. The CFA is preferred for those interested in becoming investment bankers, portfolio managers, investment researchers or be involved in advisory services.

Eligibility:

University degree: The candidate must have a university degree or be in the final year of a university degree (or equivalent as assessed by the CFA Institute)
Work experience: alternatively the person may have four years of qualified, professional work experience in an investment decision-making process
Both: A candidate is also eligible if they have a combination of academic and professional experience which totals at least 4 years

CFA Institute membership:

According the candidates qualification three memberships are available –
1. Affiliate membership – Requirements for earning this include:
  a) One should have two qualified sponsors
  b) One should agree to stick to and sign the Member's Agreement and Professional Conduct Statement
  c) One should meet the CFA society requirements, which depend on the society

2. Regular membership – (mandatory to get the charter) the major requirements are:
  a) One should have 4 years of acceptable professional work experience
  b) One should have passed the CFA Level I exam or the Standards of Practice Examination

3. CFA charter holder membership – the major requirements are:
  a)One should have 4 years of acceptable professional work experience
  b)One should have passed the CFA Level I, II, and III exams