Many students today want to know what kind of CFA jobs they can get after completing the CFA program. This is a common and smart question. CFA jobs are well-known for offering good pay, strong growth, and respect in the finance world. These jobs are available in India and many other countries. So, what are CFA jobs? They are finance-related jobs you can get after passing CFA Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3. These include roles like investment analyst, portfolio manager, equity researcher, and more.
The CFA course helps you learn deep financial knowledge. It teaches subjects like economics, accounting, equity, fixed income, and portfolio management. With this knowledge, you can work in banks, stock markets, mutual fund houses, insurance companies, and even global firms. CFA jobs are also good for people who want to move abroad and work in the US, UK, or Middle East.
What is CFA?
CFA stands for Chartered Financial Analyst. It is a globally recognized professional qualification for finance and investment professionals. The CFA program is offered by the CFA Institute, which is based in the United States. The course helps you become an expert in financial analysis, investment research, portfolio management, and ethical finance practices.
CFA Jobs Scope in India and Worldwide
CFA jobs are growing fast in India and across the globe. Finance companies need smart and skilled people who understand money, markets, and investments. That is why CFA holders are in high demand.
CFA in India
India has become a big hub for finance and investing. Many Indian firms are growing and going global. Mutual funds, banks, stockbroking firms, wealth managers, and fintech companies want CFA-qualified professionals. Companies trust the CFA title because it shows strong financial knowledge and ethical training. Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, and Hyderabad have the most CFA job openings. In India, even passing CFA Level 1 can open job doors in research and banking.
CFA Abroad
Globally, CFA jobs exist in top cities like New York, London, Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Big investment firms, hedge funds, and global banks want CFA talent. The CFA charter is one of the most respected qualifications for global finance careers. Many CFA candidates move abroad after getting work experience in India. Some even apply directly after Level 3, especially to Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian companies.
Entry-Level vs. Senior Roles
At the start of your CFA journey, you may join as a junior analyst or research assistant. As you pass more levels and gain experience, you can grow into roles like associate, VP, fund manager, or even director. Many top finance leaders in India and abroad hold the CFA designation.
CFA Jobs After Level 1
CFA Level 1 gives you a strong base in finance. Many students ask if they can get jobs after Level 1. The answer is yes. Many companies hire CFA Level 1 candidates for entry-level roles.
What You Can Do After CFA Level 1
You can work as a research associate, junior analyst, risk analyst, or operations analyst. These roles help you learn real-world finance. You will also gain work experience, which adds value when applying for higher CFA levels.
Types of Companies Hiring After Level 1
In India, companies like Crisil, Morningstar, Deloitte, WNS, and KPMG hire CFA Level 1 candidates. Some boutique investment firms and startups also look for finance interns or associates. In the global space, banks and BPOs that serve international clients may offer roles to Level 1 holders.
Skills That Help in Level 1 Jobs
Apart from CFA knowledge, you must know Excel, PowerPoint, and maybe some tools like Bloomberg, Python, or SQL. Good English communication and basic report writing also help you do better in these roles.
These jobs may not pay very well at first, but they give you a strong start in your career. As you move to Level 2 and Level 3, your job title, role, and salary will also grow.
CFA Jobs After Level 2
CFA Level 2 is the hardest of the three levels. If you clear this level, your chances of getting a better job go up. You will now be ready for more advanced roles with better salaries.
Mid-Level CFA Jobs You Can Get
After Level 2, many companies hire you for roles like equity analyst, credit analyst, risk associate, financial consultant, or valuation associate. These roles ask you to study companies, understand risks, and value investments. You may also get to work on live client projects.
Firms That Prefer CFA Level 2 Candidates
Firms like JP Morgan, HSBC, Goldman Sachs, EY, PwC, and Nomura prefer hiring CFA Level 2 cleared students. You can also join mid-sized investment firms and family offices. These roles are more client-facing and strategic.
Average Salary After Level 2
In India, CFA Level 2 candidates earn between ₹6 to ₹10 lakhs per year based on the city and firm size. In cities like Mumbai or Bangalore or foreign roles, this may go even higher. The roles you get at this level need strong Excel skills, financial modeling, and an understanding of valuation models.
These roles also build your CFA experience, which is needed when you apply for the CFA charter. Many candidates continue to work full-time while preparing for Level 3.
CFA Jobs After Level 3 and CFA Charter
Passing CFA Level 3 and becoming a CFA Charterholder puts you at the top of the finance career ladder. At this stage, you are seen as a complete finance professional ready to lead, advise, and manage investments.
Senior CFA Roles in the Market
After Level 3, you can get roles like portfolio manager, investment strategist, wealth advisor, or senior analyst. You may also become a vice president, head of research, or fund manager. These roles involve decision-making, managing teams, and handling high-net-worth or institutional clients.
Companies That Hire CFA Charterholders
Top companies hiring CFA charterholders include BlackRock, Franklin Templeton, Citi, ICICI Prudential, Kotak AMC, Axis Bank, UBS, and foreign investment banks. CFA charter holders are also hired by government agencies, pension funds, and policy think tanks.
Salary Range for CFA Charterholders
In India, CFA charter holders can earn between ₹12 and ₹30 lakhs per year. This depends on your total work experience, company brand, and job role. Abroad, salaries are much higher, with CFA professionals earning $80,000 to $150,000 per year in countries like the US, UK, or UAE.
This stage gives you the highest respect in the industry. Many CFA charter holders also work as independent advisors or launch their investment firms.
Industries That Offer CFA Jobs
The CFA course prepares you for many sectors in the finance world. You do not have to stick to just one path.
Investment Banking
In investment banking, you help companies raise money, merge with other companies, or go public. CFA holders often work in valuation, pitchbook creation, and deal analysis.
Equity Research
In equity research, you study listed companies and write reports that help investors decide where to invest. You must read financial statements and know market trends.
Portfolio Management
Here, you manage client money and build investment plans. This is common in asset management firms, mutual fund houses, and pension funds. CFA charter holders often lead such teams.
Credit Rating and Risk Management
You can work in credit rating agencies or banks and study the risk of lending money. These roles need a strong understanding of debt, interest rates, and balance sheet risk.
Fintech and Startups
New-age fintech firms also hire CFA candidates to build investment products, write content, or lead research. These roles give faster growth and good exposure
CFA Jobs FAQs
1. Can I get a job after CFA Level 1?
Yes, many firms hire Level 1 students for research and support roles.
2. Which companies hire CFA candidates?
Top firms like Goldman Sachs, EY, BlackRock, HDFC, and Morningstar hire CFA students and shareholders.
3. Do I need an MBA along with a CFA for good jobs?
No, CFA alone is enough for top finance roles. However an MBA can help in leadership roles or switching careers.
4. What is the highest salary after CFA?
In India, CFA charterholders earn up to ₹30 LPA. Globally, CFA holders can earn up to $150,000 a year.
5. Can CFA help me work abroad?
Yes, CFA is a globally accepted qualification. Many firms abroad value CFA, just like a master’s degree in finance.
