CFA

There's no fixed passing score for the CFA Level 1 exam in India, or anywhere else for that matter. Instead, the CFA Institute uses a Minimum Passing Score (MPS) that varies from exam window to exam window. This means the bar for passing can shift slightly depending on the difficulty of the exam and the performance of the test-takers.While the exact MPS remains confidential until results are released, historical data and analyst estimates can offer some guidance:Recent MPS estimates for CFA Level 1 in India:November 2023: 68%August 2023: 67%May 2023: 69%February 2023: 69%12-year average MPS for CFA Level 1 globally: 65%

The certification from the CFA Institute holds global recognition in more than 160 countries. Upon completion of the course, a Chartered Financial Analyst can anticipate earning an annual salary ranging from INR 3,50,000 to INR 35,00,000. Graduates of CFA programs are frequently sought after for higher-level positions in the financial industry. Aspiring candidates looking to pursue CFA must meet specific eligibility criteria in advance. The section below outlines the eligibility criteria for CFA course colleges in India.As a postgraduate certification, candidates are required to possess a Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent (regardless of the discipline) before enrolling in a CFA course. Candidates in the final year of their bachelor’s programme at the time of CFA registration are also deemed eligible for the course. Candidates must have relevant work experience of no less than four years at the time of registration.

Choosing between a CFA and an MBA for investment banking depends on your individual goals and desired career trajectory. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:AspectCFAMBAFocusTechnical skills in investment analysis, portfolio management, and financial markets.Broader business knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic thinking.Career PathEntry-level analyst roles like equity research, credit analysis, or portfolio management.Broader range of roles including investment banking (M&A, IPOs, etc.), private equity, venture capital, or corporate finance.Salary PotentialCan reach high levels in specialised roles, potentially higher in asset management.Starts high but can reach even greater heights in leadership positions (CEOs, Managing Directors).Work StyleQuantitative analysis, research, and attention to detail.Deal-making, communication, negotiations, and teamwork.Study Duration and CostSelf-paced study, 3 exams over 1-2 years, costlier exam fees.2 years full-time program, high tuition fees, potential scholarships.Network BuildingSmaller, professional network focused on finance.Extensive alumni network across various industries.Choose CFA if: You have a strong quantitative background,  prefer technical analysis,  and want a specialised career path in investment analysis or portfolio management.Choose MBA if: You value broader business knowledge,  leadership skills,  and networking opportunities,  and aspire to diverse roles in investment banking or other finance sectors.

Opportunities for CFA jobs in India are open to individuals who have successfully completed the three consecutive levels of the program. Graduates can explore various sectors, including banking, auditing, and financial firms. In terms of job prospects, CFA charter holders commonly opt for roles such as Research Analysts, Portfolio Managers, Investment Banking Analysts, and Chief-level Executives, among other positions.The CFA Course is in high demand due to the challenging nature of obtaining the certification, leading alumni of this programme to often outperform their peers. Some of the job profiles available to Chartered Financial Analysts include the following.Job ProfileAverage Annual SalaryInvestment Banking AnalystINR 14.7 LPAEquity Research AnalystINR 9.9 LPAPortfolio ManagerINR 11.7 LPAWealth Management AdvisorINR 4.5 LPARisk Management AnalystINR 10 LPACredit AnalystINR 8 LPAInvestment Product AnalystINR 10.8 LPAFinancial AnalystINR 5.8 LPADisclaimer: The above mentioned salaries has been taken from Ambitonbox; therefore it may vary in future.

The CFA course expenditure is between INR 2 lakh to INR 2.2 lakh.The CFA course at Narayana Business School is a comprehensive programme that focuses on preparing students for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification. It covers a wide range of topics in finance, including investment analysis, portfolio management, ethics, and more. The course aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the finance industry. It is designed to enhance their understanding of financial markets, develop analytical abilities, and foster ethical practices in the field of finance. The programme may include lectures, case studies, practical exercises, and guest lectures by industry experts. Additionally, Narayana Business School offer additional resources such as study materials, career guidance, and networking opportunities to support students throughout their CFA journey. Overall, the CFA course at Narayana Business School is a valuable opportunity for individuals looking to pursue a career in finance and enhance their expertise in the field.