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- Topic: CFA related Questions
| Author | Topic: CFA related Questions |
|---|---|
| monkey11 @2018-08-14 15:06:54 |
Hi, I am a Software Engineer and am considering a switch to finance to become an securities analyst. So I am looking for some guidance. Could anyone help me with the related questions I have listed below? Thanks in advance. My background: MSc Computer Science, BSc Computer Science, 10 years work experience Questions: 1. What are the qualifications necessary (and nice to have) while looking for a Securities analyst position? 2. Is it possible (or common) for people (from different backgrounds) to get a securities analyst position while doing CFA? If so, generally after passing which exam? Level I , II or III? 3. For a person like me who is from a completely different background, how many hours would it approximately take to prepare for CFA Level 1? The CFA institute does state 250 but I understand that varies with the individual's academic/work background. 4. What is the average starting salary for a securities analyst? 5. What are the books and websites are recommended while preparing for the level I exam? 6. I know this is a very tough market right now- both for finance professionals and technology professionals. However, if someone completed Level I and II, what are the odds of getting a relevant position in this market? |
| meglena @2018-09-03 08:37:52 |
5. CFAI website. Register for the test and you will get the 6 textbooks to prepare for the Level 1 test. The price of the textbooks are included in your registration fee. There are Schwesser and AnalystNotes that many claimed to have helped them in their preparation for the test. You can decide which one you will need. Search the posts in this forum for more opinions of which study guides to use. Not sure how CFA will help somebody who has 10+ years experience as a developer or one with a non-finance background. Even if you clear all the 3 levels on first attempt, you will have to start from scratch (despite having 13 years exp) and compete with 20+ year old guys who have passed out afresh. You need to be prepared for a massive undercutting as far as salaries go as your experience will not be considered relevant. Not sure if the game is worth the candle unless you are willing to make this huge sacrifice of your IT experience. This is the view expressed by many in this forum. |
