Course Overview:

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is a globally recognized professional credential offered by the CFA Institute. It is highly valued in the fields of investment management, financial analysis, and portfolio management. The CFA program covers a broad range of investment-related topics, including equity analysis, fixed income, derivatives, and alternative investments.

Duration:

The CFA course duration typically ranges from 2.5 to 4 years, depending on the candidate's ability to clear all three levels. On average, candidates take 18 months to 3 years to complete the program.

Syllabus (Semester-Wise / Level-Wise Structure):

The CFA program consists of three levels. Each level builds on the knowledge and skills needed for financial analysis and portfolio management.

1. CFA Level 1 (Equivalent to Semester 1 & 2):

• Ethics and Professional Standards

• Quantitative Methods

• Economics

• Financial Reporting and Analysis

• Corporate Finance

• Equity Investments

• Fixed Income

• Derivatives

• Alternative Investments

• Portfolio Management

• Wealth Planning

2. CFA Level 2 (Equivalent to Semester 3 - 4):

• Ethics and Professional Standards

• Quantitative Methods

• Economics

• Financial Reporting and Analysis

• Corporate Finance

• Equity Investments

• Fixed Income

• Derivatives

• Alternative Investments

• Portfolio Management

The syllabus focuses more on the application of concepts and analysis with a deeper dive into valuation techniques.

3. CFA Level 3 (Equivalent to Semester 5 - 6):

• Ethics and Professional Standards

• Portfolio Management and Wealth Planning (Major Focus)

• Fixed Income

• Derivatives

• Equity Investments

• Alternative Investments

The CFA Level 3 emphasizes portfolio management and strategies for high-net-worth clients and institutional investors.

Average Fees:

The fees for the CFA program are significantly higher than domestic professional certifications but reflect its global recognition. The approximate fees are:

• CFA Level 1 Fees: $1,200 - $1,400 (₹90,000 - ₹1,05,000 depending on registration time)

• CFA Level 2 Fees: $1,200 - $1,400 (₹90,000 - ₹1,05,000 depending on registration time)

• CFA Level 3 Fees: $1,200 - $1,400 (₹90,000 - ₹1,05,000 depending on registration time)

• Total (Approximate): ₹2.7 lakhs - ₹3.5 lakhs

Exams to Attend:

The CFA exam structure is divided into three levels:

1. CFA Level 1 Exam: Tests your knowledge of the basics of financial analysis and investment tools. Held twice a year (in February and August).

2. CFA Level 2 Exam: Focuses on the application of investment valuation concepts and tools. Held twice a year (in May and November).

3. CFA Level 3 Exam: Emphasizes portfolio management and wealth planning. Held once a year (in May).

Ten Most Ranking Institutions Combined Ranking in India:

1. CFA Institute - India Chapter (New Delhi)

2. Indian School of Business (ISB) - Hyderabad

3. Narayana Business School - Ahmedabad

4. SP Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) - Mumbai

5. Indian Institute of Management (IIM) - Bangalore

6. Indian Institute of Management (IIM) - Ahmedabad

7. Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS) - Mumbai

8. Xavier School of Management (XLRI) - Jamshedpur

9. Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India (ICFAI) Business School - Hyderabad

10. Amity Global Business School - Noida

Top 10 Institutions in Kerala:

1. Indian Institute of Management (IIM) - Kozhikode

2. CFA Society India - Kerala Chapter

3. Rajagiri Centre for Business Studies - Kochi

4. T.I.M.E. Institute - Kochi

5. Logic School of Management - Kochi

6. Vidyarupa School of Management Studies - Kozhikode

7. Shadwells Business School - Ernakulam

8. Mastermind Academy - Kottayam

9. Kerala Academy of Professional Studies - Trivandrum

10. Hi-Point Learning Solutions - Trivandrum