Finance and accounting

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

An investment analysis credential earned by passing three exams and meeting a work-experience requirement.

CFA InstituteProfessional

Key facts from the issuer

Three levels, with one exam at each level.
Recommended study time is 300 hours per level.
Completing all three levels typically takes three to four years.
The charter requires 4,000 hours of relevant work experience over at least 36 months, which can be gained before, during or after the program.
Charterholders must be regular CFA Institute members, with two to three professional references.

Source: CFA Institute official page , checked 2026-11-10. Fees, rules and syllabuses change; confirm with the issuer before you enrol.