Can we Pursue CFA without Degree?

CFA stands for Chartered Financial Analyst, a prestigious professional designation offered by the CFA Institute. It signifies expertise in finance, investment analysis, and portfolio management, gained through rigorous study and examination.

If you are interested and passionate about Finance, then you should opt for CFA. It is the key that will help you step into the Finance Industry.

CFA Program consists of 3 Levels that tests the fundamentals of investment tools, valuing assets, portfolio management and wealth planning. 

Let's Answer if we can Pursue CFA without a Bachelor's Degree!



CFA Eligibility

Before you enroll for the CFA Level 1 Exam, you should meet one of the Eligibility criteria mentioned below:

1. Bachelor's Degree:  Complete a bachelor's program or equivalent program and have received a degree from the college/university. If you are not sure if your program is comparable, consult your college or university.




2. Undergraduate: Students must schedule their exam within 23 months of their bachelor's degree graduation when they sit for Level 1 Exams, and to sit for Level II exams they are required to be within 11 months of graduation .



There's one more criteria which doesn't require a graduation degree to enroll for CFA Level 1 Exams

3. Professional Work Experience: Candidates need 4,000 hours of professional work experience or a combination of work experience and higher education over three consecutive years before registering for the Level I exam. Higher education is assumed to contribute 1,000 hours per year.



If you are a CA Student without Bachelor's Degree

For CA students aiming to register for the CFA Level 1 Exam without having bachelor's degree, completion of 2 years of articleship is considered, along with an additional year of work or articleship experience.

If you have done multiple internships aggregating to 4000 hours,  you are eligible to apply for CFA Level 1

Other Things to Note:

• Professional work experience for CFA Level 1 applying criteria need not be investment-related.
• Paid internships or articleships are acceptable forms of experience.
• Work in one's own or family business qualifies if it's professional and paid.

Candidates without a bachelor's degree must assess if their professional experience adequately prepares them for the rigorous study required by the CFA Program.

CFA Institute may request proof of education and work experience at any stage. Failure to provide may lead to consequences like exam cancellation or result withholding, and possible investigation.

I hope this article has answered all your questions. If you still have queries, please register for our CFA Webinar which will held on 24th May @8:00 PM!

The CFA designation is highly regarded in finance, requiring passing exams and relevant work experience. Chartered Accountants (CAs) or CA students without a degree can pursue CFA if they have 4,000 hours of work experience or a combination of work and education over three years. Paid internships or family business experience count. While no documents are needed initially, proof may be requested later. Pursuing CFA offers a path to career advancement for those passionate about finance.


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