Over 200,000 candidates appear for the CFA exam each year, but many still wonder when they can start.
When can I do the CFA?
What are the eligibility criteria?
If these questions have been on your mind, you’re in the right place.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
If you’re in high school and thinking about your future in finance, this might help you plan your next move.
Let’s dive in!
What is the CFA?
CFA stands for Chartered Financial Analyst, a globally recognized qualification.
It’s best for those who want to build a strong career in finance, investment, and portfolio management.
It’s a 3-level program designed to give you deep knowledge of:
- Financial analysis
- Portfolio management
- Investment strategies
- Real-world finance applications
Many students who want to enter the finance world choose CFA because it’s highly respected, focused, and internationally accepted.
Unlike CA, which takes longer and covers accounting in depth, CFA is shorter (2–4 years) and purely focused on finance and investments.
How much does it cost?
- CFA fees: ₹3–4 lakhs (excluding coaching fees)
- It’s an investment, but one that pays off well.
What salary can you expect after each level?
- After Level 1: ₹3–4.5 LPA
- After Level 2: Around ₹6 LPA
- After Level 3: ₹10+ LPA
And the best part about CFA is that it’s globally recognized.
So, whether you want to work in India or abroad, this qualification opens doors.
If you’re thinking of a career in finance with strong international value, the CFA is undoubtedly one of the best options out there.
Can CFA Be Done After 12th?
Yes, you can start your CFA journey after 12th, but you cannot complete the entire course until you finish your graduation.
Here’s how it works:
- You can’t directly apply for the CFA course right after 12th.
The official minimum requirement to earn the CFA charter is a bachelor’s degree (or being in the final year of your degree).
- However, you can start preparing for CFA Level 1 after 12th.
In fact, many students use this time to begin studying and register for Level 1 in advance.
The step-by-step path after 12th:
Step 1: Pass 12th
Step 2: Enroll in a graduation program (B.Com, BBA, etc.)
Step 3: Start studying for CFA Level 1 alongside college
Step 4: Register and appear for Level 1 (you can do this even before your final year)
Step 5: Wait 6 months, then appear for Level 2
Step 6: Before taking Level 3, you must complete your graduation
Step 7: After passing Level 3, gain 4,000 hours of relevant work experience
Step 8: Submit reference letters and apply for the CFA charter
To sum up:
- You can’t register for CFA right after 12th.
- You can start preparing after the 12th and appear for the exam during or after your college years.
Is CFA worth it?
It’s a fair question, and honestly, the answer depends on what you want.
A lot of people hesitate because of impostor syndrome, thoughts like,
- “What if I don’t use most of what I learn?”
- “Will I even be good enough?”
But here’s the thing: the CFA charter opens doors that wouldn’t open otherwise.
It earns you respect, credibility, and global recognition in the finance world.
Yes, it’s true, in most jobs, you’ll specialize in one area and might not use everything you studied.
But that doesn’t mean it was a waste.
What the CFA gives you is a solid foundation.
It makes you comfortable with finance at a deeper level, from investment analysis to ethics to portfolio management.
If you’re serious about a career in finance or investment, and you want to:
- Build strong knowledge
- Boost your profile
- Stand out, then CFA is 100% worth it.
It’s not easy, it’s time-consuming, mentally challenging, and requires self-discipline.
But it’s also affordable, self-paced, and offers huge career value.
In a world where higher education often comes with a massive price tag and little ROI, CFA stands out as a smart, focused, and respected choice.
If you’re clear on your goals and ready to commit, CFA is one of the best investments you can make in yourself.
Conclusion
Can CFA be done after 12th?
Yes, but with a few conditions.
You can start preparing for CFA right after the 12th, and even appear for Level 1 and Level 2 during your graduation.
But to appear for Level 3, you must complete your bachelor’s degree first.
So, it’s best to pursue a degree like B.Com, BBA, or any undergraduate program that aligns with your interests, and begin your CFA journey alongside it.
Once you complete all three levels and gain 4,000 hours of relevant work experience, you can apply for the CFA charter and officially become a CFA charterholder.
CFA is a globally recognized, highly respected career path in finance.
While it’s challenging (similar in difficulty to CA), with the right time management, dedication and a strong reason behind your choice, it’s absolutely achievable.
Know your “why.”
Start early. Stay consistent.
We believe in you, you’ve got this!
