What After CFA Results?

Deciding what to do after the CFA result declaration is an important decision. Read the article below to know what to do after the CFA results have been announced. 

The CFA results 2024 have been declared by the CFA Institute. The CFA Level 1 and Level 2 results for the November exam 2024 were released on January 14, 2025, and January 16, 2025, respectively. Whether a candidate has successfully cleared the CFA exam or they are planning to retake it, the next step is crucial in one’s CFA journey. Knowing what to do after the CFA results are announced is important to set the next course of action and the efforts required to make and achieve long-term professional goals. Read the article below to know the opportunities and options available after the CFA exam results are announced and what to do after the CFA results.

There are two cases, i.e. if a candidate has passed or if he/she has failed. Let’s talk about both scenarios in detail.

Passed the CFA Exam

If the candidate has passed the CFA exam, congratulations. Here is what to do next:

1. Plan for the Next CFA Level

   1. Level 1 graduates should start preparing for the Level 2 CFA exam which dives deeper into asset valuation, economics and corporate finance. Candidates should dedicate enough time to topics such as derivatives, equity valuations, etc.
   2. Level 2 graduates should gear up for the CFA Level 3 exam. This level of the CFA exam focuses and emphasizes on portfolio management and wealth planning. It also integrates concepts from previous levels into practical, real-world applications.
   3. Level 3 graduates should apply for the CFA charter as soon as they receive their results. Candidates must ensure that they meet the work experience- 4,000 work hours over three years in investment-related roles.

Also Read:

2. Update the Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Candidates should build a strong resume highlighting their CFA accomplishments and update their LinkedIn profiles to attract recruiters. They can emphasize on the skills they gained including ethical decision-making, financial analysis and portfolio management.

3. Explore Career Opportunities

CFA Charterholders are equipped with the skills required to work at senior-level positions in risk management, portfolio management, investment management, etc. The CFA charter can boost an individual’s career exponentially. CFA charterholders have various career opportunities including:

Such individuals are hired by some of the top firm and MNCs in India including JP Morgan and Co., Goldman Sachs, HSBC, Credit Suisse, Crisil, TATA Sons, Deloitte, KPMG, Ernst & Yong, PwC, Bajaj Finance, etc.

Also Read: Career After CFA

4. Building Your Network

After completing the CFA journey, it is important for the CFA graduates to build a strong network and connect with the members of their CFA society. Networking is the key because in this competitive world of finance, it does not only act as a tool but a necessity for career advancement. Building strong connections can enhance an individual’s knowledge, boost career opportunities and define his/her professional CFA journey.

Students can attend CFA Institute events and connect with the members. They can also join online communities and forums to interact with professionals and discover career opportunities.

Also Read: 

Didn’t Pass the CFA Exam

Failing the CFA exam can be disheartening but it is not the end of the road. Many successful CFA charterholders also have faced similar challenges but have not given up. Here is how one can handle this situation:

1. Analyze the CFA Results

After the CFA result declaration, students should focus on analyzing their results. They can review their performance and identify the areas of improvement. They should focus on topics which they find difficult and try to understand what brought their MPS (Minimum Passing Score) down.

2. Developing Preparation Strategy

Candidates should create a CFA preparation strategy to dedicate enough time to all the topics on the CFA curriculum whilst dedicating a little more time to the topics they find more challenging, whether it is Fixed Income, Derivatives, and/or Financial Reporting and Analysis (FRA). To practice better, students must use CFA mock tests and the CFA Institute’s resources to practice. Solving the mock tests will increase speed and accuracy. Students can also join study groups and use YouTube videos to prepare better.

3. Re-register for the CFA Exam

The CFA exam is one of the most challenging finance certifications. Even if an individual has failed an exam, they can use this experience as motivation to approach their next attempt with renewed determination. They should re-register for the exam in the next exam window. Leveraging the lessons learned from the previous attempt can help the students score better.

Also Read: CFA exam application form 2025

4. Alternatives

Students have the option of considering other certifications that complement CFA certification. Students can opt for certifications such as Financial Risk Management, Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst, Certified Public Accountant, etc.

Also Read: Best CFA Alternative Courses

5. Long-Term Career Planning

Whether you pass or fail, regardless of the CFA results, students should focus on their future career goals. They can start by defining clear goals and objectives. They should know whether they want to specialize in investment analysis, portfolio management or risk management. They can pursue internships and seek roles that align with their long-term professional goals. At the same time, they should also focus on enhancing soft skills such as leadership, communication, time management, etc. which are crucial for the finance and investment industry.

6. Stay Committed to Your CFA Journey

The ultimate goal is to stay committed to the CFA journey. The CFA program is a rigorous yet rewarding career path and requires dedication, diligence, and persistence. Whether one passes or needs to retake the exam, his efforts will eventually pay off. Stay focused, continue learning, and use every opportunity to grow as a finance professional.

Read More:

• How to become a certified financial risk manager
• CFA vs CFP: Which One to Choose?
• MBA vs CFA: Which is Better?
• CFA vs CPA