BERKELEY SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, ARTS & SCIENCES

Overview

CFA Overview

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification is a globally recognized credential, designed for finance and investment professionals aspiring to excel in areas such as portfolio management, investment analysis, and wealth management. Regarded as the gold standard in the investment industry, the CFA program equips candidates with a comprehensive understanding of financial analysis, ethical standards, and global investment practices. Structured across three levels, the program demands rigorous study and demonstrates mastery of complex financial concepts and decision-making skills. Earning the CFA charter signifies a high level of expertise, dedication, and professional integrity, opening doors to advanced career opportunities in the competitive world of finance.

Offered by

Awarded by the CFA Institute.

Head office

Headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia, USA

Members

With over 200,000 members, CFA Institute is a leading global association for investment management professionals.

Founded in

The CFA Institute was founded in 1947 as the Financial Analysts Federation (FAF). It later merged with the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts (ICFA) in 1990 to form what is now known as the CFA Institute. The organization has since grown into a globally recognized leader in advancing the investment management profession.

Vision & Mission

CFA Institute aims to be a global leader in advancing the investment profession by emphasizing ethical standards, quality education, and professional excellence to benefit society. It focuses on supporting investment professionals through initiatives that uphold ethical practices, provide access to top-tier educational resources, and build a global network dedicated to improving outcomes for investors and the industry.

What is the eligibility?

CFA Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the CFA program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Education:

Have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, or
Be in the final year of their bachelor’s degree program at the time of registration, or
Have a combination of professional work experience and higher education totaling at least four years.

Work Experience:

If not meeting the educational criteria, candidates can qualify with a minimum of four years of professional work experience, which does not have to be investment-related but should involve decision-making and critical thinking skills.

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Who can do?

CFA Concepts & Designations

Anyone who is interested to learn about following concepts can pursue CFA – Chartered Financial Analyst (Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3).

Ethics & Professional Standards, Quantitative Methods, Economics, Financial Reporting and Analysis, Corporate Finance, Equity Investments / Equity Valuation, Fixed Income, Derivatives, Alternative Investments, Portfolio Management.

Individuals with the following designations:

Investment Banker, Investment Analyst, Investment Advisor, Investment Manager, Investment Counselor, Chief Investment Officer, Investment Firm Manager, Equity Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Fixed Income Analyst, Portfolio Strategist, Portfolio manager, Research Analyst, Investment banker, Investment Consultant, Risk manager, Corporate financial analyst, Chief Executive Officer – CEO, Sales/ Marketing Professional, C-suite, Credit Structure, Managing Director, Senior Vice President.

Course structure

The CFA course structure consists of three levels, each focusing on different aspects of finance and investment management.

CFA Level 1 Curriculum

CFA Level 1:

The CFA Level I curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in the principles of finance and investment management. It is organized across 10 topic areas. The focus is on building a strong understanding of fundamental concepts, analytical tools, and the basics of asset valuation and portfolio management. With a balanced emphasis on theory and practical application, the curriculum prepares candidates for real-world financial decision-making while setting the stage for advanced topics in subsequent levels. (Click here to find the CFA Level 1 lecture plan)

Ethical and Professional Standards (15-20%)
Quantitative Methods (6-9%)
Economics (6-9%)
Financial Statement Analysis (11-14%)
Corporate Issuers (6-9%)
Equity Investments (11-14%)
Fixed Income (11-14%)
Derivatives (5-8%)
Alternative Investments (7-10%)
Portfolio Management (8-12%)

CFA Level 2 Curriculum

CFA Level 2:

The CFA Level II curriculum emphasizes the application of financial tools and concepts to asset valuation and investment analysis. It builds on the foundational knowledge from Level I, diving deeper into topics. The curriculum features a case-based approach, with item set questions that test candidates’ ability to analyze complex scenarios and apply concepts to real-world financial problems. Key focus areas include financial modeling, valuation techniques, and investment decision-making, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding how to evaluate assets in diverse market conditions. (Click here to find the CFA Level 2 lecture plan)

Ethical and Professional Standards (10-15%)
Quantitative Methods (5-10%)
Economics (5-10%)
Financial Statement Analysis (10-15%)
Corporate Issuers (5-10%)
Equity Investments (10-15%)
Fixed Income (10-15%)
Derivatives (5-10%)
Alternative Investments (5-10%)
Portfolio Management (10-15%)

CFA Level 3 Curriculum

CFA Level 3:

The CFA Level III curriculum focuses on portfolio management and wealth planning, emphasizing the integration of financial concepts into effective investment strategies. Building on the analytical skills developed in the earlier levels, it explores advanced topics such as asset allocation, risk management, performance evaluation, and client relationship management. A significant portion of the curriculum is dedicated to case studies and essay-style questions, testing candidates’ ability to synthesize information and construct tailored investment solutions. Level III equips candidates with the expertise needed to manage portfolios and address the complex needs of individual and institutional investors.

Ethical and Professional Standards (10-15%)
Derivatives and Risk Management (10-15%)
Portfolio Construction (15-20%)
Asset Allocation (15-20%)
Performance Measurement (5-10%)
Pathways (Portfolio Management or Private Markets or Private Wealth) (30-35%)

Learning Methodology

Berkeley Learning Methodology

Berkeley offers expertly developed learning materials tailored to meet participants' needs, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the syllabus and optimal exam preparation.

Tailored Material: Guides are designed to cover the entire syllabus, offering full preparation and deep understanding.
In-Depth Content: Unlike superficial outlines, our materials provide fully developed theories and concepts, equipping participants with complete knowledge.
Strategic Study: We help participants prioritize study time by indicating the weight of each topic, allowing efficient focus on crucial areas.
Difficulty Levels: Topics are labeled as “Awareness” or “Proficiency,” guiding participants to allocate time based on the required depth of knowledge.
Comprehensive Coverage: Our materials include detailed theory and a glossary of technical terms to clarify complex concepts.
Effective Learning Techniques: Visual aids and memorization techniques ensure long-lasting retention, helping candidates succeed.

Berkeley’s methodologies equip participants with the essential knowledge and tools for both exams and future success.

Lectures

Practice Session

Mock Examination

Berkeley's performance standards

Training Quality Indicators

Evaluates and ensure the quality of the training program and all its deliverables. This is measured through the following indicators:

Instructors’ experience and style in presenting and explaining topics.
Variety and balance of teaching methods (such as discussions, case studies, mock exams and videos) used in the course to ensure retention and to match the learning objectives.
Level of interactivity.
Feedback from program participants.
Full compliance with Institute standards and guidelines for preparation and study requirements and methodology.
Progress reports from the training program provider.

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What are the Exam Information?

Exam Format, Passing Criteria & Locations

Exam Format & Duration

Computer-Based Exams

Part/Module	Exam format	Exam duration
CFA Level 1:	✓ 180 multiple-choice questions. ✓ Morning Session: 90 MCQs ✓ Afternoon Session: 90 MCQs	Each session lasts for 2 hours and 15 minutes (Total exam time is 4 hours and 30 minutes)
CFA Level 2:	✓ 88 multiple-choice questions. ✓ Morning Session (Item Set Questions): 4–6 vignettes with 6 questions per vignette. ✓ Afternoon Session (Item Set Questions): 4–6 vignettes with 6 questions per vignette.	Each session lasts for 3 hours (Total exam time is 6 hours)
CFA Level 3:	✓ Morning Session – Constructed Response (Essay Questions) ✓ Must write short-form answers and calculations for case study-based questions. ✓ Afternoon Session – Item Sets (Multiple Choice) ✓ Contains 11 item sets, each with 4–6 multiple-choice questions based on case studies.	Each session lasts for 2 hours 12 minutes each (4 hours and 24 minutes)

Exam Dates

CFA Level 1: Offered in February, May, August & November
CFA Level 2: Offered in May, August & November
CFA Level 3: Offered in February, August & November

Passing Criteria

The CFA Level 1, 2, and 3 exams do not have a fixed passing score. The CFA Institute determines the Minimum Passing Score (MPS) after each exam based on overall candidate performance. Key points include:

Minimum Passing Score (MPS): Typically ranges between 65%–70%, but the exact score is not disclosed.
Ethics Adjustment: If a candidate is close to the MPS, strong performance in the Ethics section may help in passing.
No Negative Marking: Only correct answers contribute to the final score.
Relative Performance: Candidates must score above the MPS for each exam session.
Since the MPS changes, candidates should aim for 70% or higher to maximize their chances of passing.

Exam Locations

The CFA exams are held globally at more than 400 exam centers across various regions. Here is a breakdown of the global CFA exam locations and centers:

✓United States	✓Canada	✓United Kingdom	✓Germany	✓France	✓Switzerland
✓Spain	✓Italy	✓Netherlands	✓China	✓India	✓Singapore
✓Japan	✓South Korea	✓Malaysia	✓Thailand	✓United Arab Emirates	✓Saudi Arabia
✓Qatar	✓Kuwait	✓Bahrain	✓Oman	✓Egypt	✓South Africa
✓Nigeria	✓Kenya	✓Brazil	✓Mexico	✓Argentina	✓Australia
✓New Zealand

Success stories

Read about our student's success stories as testimonials

Alumni benefits

Member Benefits

Exclusive Networking Events: Access invitations to industry-leading events and thought-leadership gatherings featuring renowned speakers.
Monthly Updates: Stay informed with a newsletter highlighting the latest research, events, and activities from the school.
LinkedIn Community Access: Join the Executive Education LinkedIn group for networking and professional development opportunities.
Educational Discounts: Enjoy a 20% discount on open-enrollment programs and access to workshops focused on emerging trends.
Global Alumni Network: Connect with a diverse alumni community through the Berkeley School’s online network and engage in country and interest groups.

CFA Salary: Is It Worth the Investment?

Salary by Region and Experience

By Region

North America: Higher salaries, with senior roles often exceeding $200,000 annually, particularly in financial hubs like New York.

Europe: Competitive pay, with mid-to-senior roles earning $120,000–$250,000, higher in London.

Asia: Growing demand for CFAs; salaries range from $100,000 to $200,000 in cities like Hong Kong and Singapore.

Middle East: Attractive packages, often including bonuses, with senior roles reaching $150,000–$250,000.

By Experience

Entry-Level: Analysts typically earn $70,000–$100,000 annually.

Mid-Level: Roles like portfolio managers earn $120,000–$250,000.

Senior-Level: Executives, such as CIOs, often exceed $300,000 with bonuses.

What you earn

Certificate Benefits

You will get a certificate of completion, which is highly reputed and accepted by employers.

Global Credibility

Earn a globally recognized credential that enhances your professional reputation and career opportunities.

In-depth Knowledge

Gain advanced knowledge in investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial markets.

Career Advancement

Access high-level positions in finance and investment management with the CFA designation.

Ethical Standards

Adhere to the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, ensuring professionalism and integrity.

Professional Network

Join a global network of investment professionals and access exclusive resources and events.

CFA – Chartered Financial Analyst (Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3)

Overview

Vision & Mission

What is the eligibility?

Learn More

Who can do?

Course structure

CFA Level 1:

CFA Level 2:

CFA Level 3:

Learning Methodology

Berkeley's performance standards

Learn More

What are the Exam Information?

Exam Format & Duration

Exam Dates

Passing Criteria

Exam Locations

Success stories

Alumni benefits

CFA Salary: Is It Worth the Investment?

By Region

By Experience

What you earn

Global Credibility

In-depth Knowledge

Career Advancement

Ethical Standards

Professional Network

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