CFA or Chartered Financial Analyst is one of the most respected certifications for financial analysts across the world. CFA helps professionals grow in fields like investment banking, equity research, and portfolio management. The answer to “how to do a CFA” lies in registering with the CFA Institute, clearing the three levels of CFA exams, and gaining relevant work experience. CFA course details are essential for students who want to pursue a long-term career in finance. The CFA program teaches core financial and investment concepts. The journey includes clearing CFA Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 exams, each building knowledge
and skill in finance and investment.
How to do a CFA?
Many students start by asking how to do a CFA, but they often miss the smaller steps that matter the most. The CFA journey is long but rewarding. There are clear steps that candidates must follow in the correct order. Each step builds a solid base in finance and prepares the candidate for high-level roles in investment and asset management.
The CFA program is not just about giving exams. It includes eligibility, registration, preparation, and gaining experience. Candidates need to understand the CFA course details before applying. The following steps explain the whole process to help candidates begin their CFA journey with confidence.
Step 1: Check the CFA Eligibility
The first and most important step is checking if the candidate is eligible. The CFA Institute has clear rules about who can apply.
A candidate can register for the CFA Level 1 exam if:
- They have completed a bachelor’s degree in any field.
- They are in the final year of their bachelor’s degree program.
- They have at least 4,000 hours of work experience or a mix of college education and work.
For example, a final-year B Com or BBA student can register. A working professional with four years of experience in finance or operations can also apply. Having a valid international passport is mandatory. The CFA Institute uses this for identity proof. Students must also check if their country is eligible, as some locations have restrictions.
Step 2: Complete the CFA Registration Process
After confirming eligibility, candidates must go through the CFA registration process. This is done online on the official CFA Institute website.
To register, candidates must:
- Create a CFA Institute account.
- Choose the exam level (Level 1 for beginners).
- Select the exam window or exam date.
- Fill out the academic and personal details.
- Upload identification documents like a passport.
- Pay the CFA exam fees.
The earlier a candidate registers, the lower the fees. The CFA exam fees are higher for late registrations. This is why many students prefer early planning. The CFA Institute also gives a one-time enrollment fee, which is required for new candidates only. Once the registration is complete, candidates can access study materials. These materials include digital textbooks, topic outlines, and practice questions.
Step 3: Select CFA Exam Dates and Choose a Test Center
CFA exam dates are available for multiple windows throughout the year. Candidates can choose an exam window that fits their preparation timeline. For example, CFA Level 1 exams happen in February, May, August, and November.
CFA Level 2 exams are usually conducted in May and August. CFA Level 3 exams take place in February and August. The CFA exam centers are present in most major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata.
While choosing the exam date, students must ensure that they have enough time to prepare—at least 5–6 months is ideal. Candidates can also book a convenient test location through the CFA Institute dashboard.
Step 4: Begin CFA Exam Preparation
Once registered, candidates should begin their CFA exam preparation without delay. Preparation is the most essential part of the CFA journey. The CFA syllabus is detailed and requires over 300 hours of study per level. Here are the topics for CFA Level 1:
- Ethics and Professional Standards
- Quantitative Methods
- Economics
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Corporate Finance
- Equity Investments
- Fixed Income
- Derivatives
- Alternative Investments
- Portfolio Management
Each topic carries a specific weight in the exam. Ethics is the most important and should be revised regularly. Students must:
- Read CFA books thoroughly.
- Make short notes for revision.
- Solve topic-wise questions.
- Take full-length CFA mock tests regularly.
- Revise weak topics weekly.
Choosing the right resources helps improve performance. The CFA Institute provides learning materials, practice questions, and exam blueprints. Students can also buy third-party question banks and enroll in coaching if needed.
Step 5: Go for CFA Exam
The CFA Level 1 exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions, which are split over two sessions of two hours and 15 minutes each. All exams are computer-based and held at CFA-designated exam centers. The students must follow the following procedures:
- Be early at the center.
- Carry valid identification.
- Avoid carrying any banned items.
The exam requires time management skills. Answering all questions on time is essential. Guessing is allowed because there is no negative marking. After the exam, the CFA Institute shares the results in 6–8 weeks. If the candidate clears the level, they can register for the next level.
Step 6: Repeat for Level 2 and Level 3
After clearing Level 1, candidates can go ahead with CFA Level 2. They must register again, choose an exam window, and pay exam fees. Level 2 is more technical and includes case-study-style questions. Students must understand how to apply formulas and analyze data. Level 3 is the final stage. It focuses on portfolio management and includes written answers (essay-type questions). Students must practice writing clearly and quickly. The CFA pass rate for Level 3 is higher because this stage fully prepares most students.
Step 7: Gain 4 Years of Work Experience
To get the CFA charter, candidates must gain 4,000 hours of relevant work experience. The work must be full-time and related to investment decisions, research, or financial analysis.
For example:
- Working in an equity research firm counts.
- Roles like portfolio manager, credit analyst, or investment banker qualify.
- Operations or accounting jobs may not count unless they involve decision-making.
The CFA Institute checks the experience before giving the charter. Students must describe their job roles clearly and submit references.
Step 8: Apply for the CFA Charter
Once all three levels are cleared and work experience is completed, candidates can apply for the CFA charter. This step includes
- Filling out a professional conduct form.
- Submitting two to three references.
- Providing job details and hours worked.
- Waiting for approval from the CFA Institute.
After approval, the candidate officially becomes a CFA charterholder. This opens many CFA career opportunities, such as financial analyst, investment manager, and risk analyst roles. The CFA salary in India varies from ₹6 LPA for freshers to ₹25 LPA+ for experienced candidates.
CFA Exam Levels Explained: Level 1, 2, and 3
CFA has three levels. Each level tests a more profound knowledge of finance and investment. Knowing what to expect in each exam helps students prepare in the right direction.
CFA Level 1
CF Level 1 focuses on basic concepts. The exam has 180 multiple-choice questions. It covers topics like Ethics, Financial Reporting, and Quantitative Methods. CFA Level 1 subjects also include Portfolio Management and Corporate Finance. The CFA syllabus is vast and needs early preparation. CFA exam centers are available in many cities in India. The CFA Level 1 exam has two sessions, each 2 hours and 15 minutes long. Students must practice time management. The CFA pass rate for Level 1 is lower compared to other levels because students underestimate the effort needed.
CFA Level 2
Level 2 tests how candidates apply financial concepts. It includes item-set questions based on real-life scenarios. The syllabus gets more technical. Candidates study valuation techniques, equity analysis, and fixed-income investments. The exam format changes from multiple choice to case studies. Students should use CFA books and practice through CFA mock tests. Understanding CFA course details helps at this stage, as it demands more focused study.
CFA Level 3
CFA Level 3 is about portfolio management and wealth planning. The questions include essay-style answers and item sets. The CFA exam preparation for Level 3 must focus on writing and logical thinking. This is the final level. Clearing it gives access to CFA career opportunities in asset management, private equity, and more. CFA exam fees are the same for all levels but can be lower with early registration.
CFA Eligibility, Fees, and Duration in India
Many Indian students choose CFA to improve their job prospects in finance. Knowing the CFA eligibility and fee structure in India helps in planning better.
CFA Eligibility in India
CFA eligibility in India is the same as that in the global rules. A candidate must have a bachelor’s degree or be in the final year. Alternatively, four years of full-time work experience qualify too. A valid passport is required during registration.
CFA Fees in India
The CFA exam fees include a one-time enrollment fee and individual exam fees.
Here is the fee structure:
| Fee Type | Amount (USD) | Amount (INR) |
| One-Time Enrollment Fee | $350 | ₹29,050 |
| Early Exam Registration | $940 per level | ₹78,020 per level |
| Standard Exam Registration | $1250 per level | ₹103,750 per level |
These charges vary with exchange rates. Planning CFA exam dates early helps to save money.
CFA Course Duration
Most students take around 2.5 to 4 years to complete the CFA program. Each level needs around 6 months of preparation. Candidates can appear for the next level only after passing the current one. CFA course duration may change if students skip attempts or fail any level.
Best Preparation Strategy to Clear CFA in First Attempt
Clearing the CFA in the first attempt is possible with the right strategy. Time management and thoughtful planning are key to success.
Create a Study Plan
Start preparation at least 6 months before the exam. Divide the CFA syllabus into weekly goals. Allocate extra time for complex topics. Candidates must focus on CFA Level 1 subjects initially and build strong fundamentals.
Use the Right Resources
Use CFA books provided by the CFA Institute. These are the most reliable. Online classes and CFA mock tests also help. Taking practice exams gives an idea of the real exam format. Practice helps improve speed and accuracy.
Focus on Weak Areas
Review mock test results regularly. Spend more time on topics with low scores. Revise Ethics regularly because it has a high weight in CFA Level 1.
Stay Consistent and Avoid Gaps
Do not break the study routine. Daily practice is better than long weekend sessions. Understand every concept deeply instead of memorizing.
Join Study Groups
Group study helps clear doubts faster. It keeps motivation high. Online forums also support CFA exam preparation.
How to do a CFA FAQs
1. How do you become a CFA in India?
To become a CFA, register with the CFA Institute, pass all three exam levels, complete 4 years of work experience, and apply for the charter. Follow the CFA registration process and prepare using official resources.
2. What is the duration of the CFA course in India?
The duration of the CFA course in India is about 2.5 to 4 years. It depends on how quickly the candidate clears each level.
3. What are the CFA exam fees in India?
CFA exam fees include a $350 enrollment fee and $940–$1250 per exam, depending on when you register. These amounts are payable to the CFA Institute.
4. Is CFA worth it in India?
Yes, CFA is worth it in India. It opens doors to CFA career opportunities in top finance companies and offers a good salary. CFA salary in India increases with experience and level passed.
5. CFA vs MBA: Which is better?
CFA focuses on finance and investment, while MBA offers a broad management approach. CFA is better for careers in asset management and equity research. An MBA is better for leadership roles in multiple domains.
