Is a CFA Course in India Worth It – Important Factors To Consider

The CFA designation is highly revered in the finance and investment industry in India and abroad. The CFA Institute, a global organisation committed to maintaining the highest standards in finance and investment, grants this valuable professional credential to candidates who clear three rigorous CFA exam levels.

By achieving the CFA Charter, a professional becomes an expert in various aspects of investment management, including financial analysis, portfolio management, and risk management. If a finance and investment professional is looking for career advancement and higher earning potential, enrolling in a CFA course in India is a great idea. 

However, before taking the plunge, candidates must consider certain factors to understand if the CFA course in India is worth it. This blog covers these critical factors in detail. Read on to learn more. 

Factors to consider to understand if a CFA course in India is worth it

If candidates are unsure if pursuing a CFA course in India will benefit their career, they must consider certain factors. Some of the most important factors are as follows:

• Industry demand and job market scenario

Before pursuing the CFA course, understanding the job market scenario and industry demand trends is mandatory. 

• Industry trends

Candidates must have a thorough knowledge of the trends in the finance and investment industry. For instance, there is a surging demand for professionals in risk management, ESG investing, financial technology, etc. 

Professionals can assess these trends to understand their career prospects and decide if a CFA course will benefit them. 

• Job opportunities and networking

With the CFA designation, professionals have the scope of excellent job referrals and networking opportunities. The benefits of the CFA course in India outweigh the challenges of pursuing the program. 

Candidates must also consider the industry demand in their area and the growth prospects, both professional and financial.

• Geographical locations

Demand for CFA professionals might vary by country or region. Candidates must thoroughly research the job market in their preferred location to understand how much value the CFA certification will have. 

Employers in a particular area might not be looking for such a highly esteemed designation for their organisation. 

• Job role requirements

Job profiles for investment management often demand professionals with a CFA charter. 

Candidates looking for a career in investment management must evaluate whether earning a CFA certification will help them achieve their desired job profile in the finance and investment industry. 

• Investments: time, effort and finance

Enrolling in any course requires time, effort, and financial investment. Candidates must consider these factors for the CFA course in India as well. 

• Return on investment (ROI)

Before enrolling in a course like CFA, candidates must check the ROI. They must consider factors like career advancement scopes, salary hike potential, and job satisfaction after the CFA certification. 

Evaluate whether the return on investment from the course is worth it in various aspects, particularly time and effort. The CFA course is challenging and requires significant time and effort. 

• Time management

One of the most important considerations for the CFA course in India is time management. Candidates pursuing this course must invest a good amount of time in their studies. The three exam levels are rigorous, demanding hard work and dedication. 

A professional pursuing a CFA program has to balance work and study simultaneously. Hence, effective time management is crucial. 

• Finance management

Candidates must check their current financial situation before enrolling in the CFA program. Pursuing the CFA course requires a substantial financial investment. 

Candidates must have suitable resources to cover course expenses without straining essential ongoing expenditures. 

• Ambitions and personal goals

A candidate’s ambitions and personal goals are decisive and driving factors for choosing a course of study. 

• Interest in the finance and investment industry

Candidates pursuing the CFA course in India must have a deep interest in finance and investment management. The charter demands high commitment levels and extensive study.

The path towards the goal will be more challenging until and unless the candidate is genuinely interested and passionate about achieving the CFA charter. 

• Career path and aspirations

Candidates must have a clear idea and mindset about their careers and aspirations. They must evaluate whether the CFA course aligns with their perceived career path. 

For instance, a candidate looking to make a career as an investment banker, financial analyst, or portfolio manager must pursue the CFA course. However, there may be other relevant certifications and qualifications for different job profiles in the finance and investment industry. 

Conclusion

Pursuing a CFA course in India comes with a host of benefits, such as better career opportunities, enhanced salary options, a career in an international destination, excellent networking options, and many more. However, before enrolling in the course, candidates must consider the above-mentioned factors to make the right decision. 

Whether you’re looking for online CFA or classroom learning, sign up today!

For more details, visit The WallStreet School or contact us via email or phone: +91-9999724852.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the career options after the CFA course in India?

There are abundant career opportunities after the CFA course in India, including those as a Portfolio Manager, Investment Banker, Market Research Analyst, Risk Management professional, or Equity Analyst. 

• Which companies are top recruiters for CFA professionals?

Leading corporate organisations and financial institutions, such as ITC, Deloitte, JP Morgan & Co, SBI, E&T, CitiGroup, and many others, recruit CFA professionals. 

• What is the approximate time to complete the CFA course?

It takes about 3-4 years to complete all three levels of the CFA exam – Level I, II and III. The recommended study time for each exam level is approximately 300 hours.