Saumya
Saumya Jain
Assistant Manager- Content
New Delhi, Updated on Mar 13, 2025 12:55 IST

Should you consider a plan B if you do not clear the CFA exam? Shiksha conducted a poll to gain insights into what aspiring CFA candidates think for considering an alternative to CFA. Read the article below to know the interesting poll results.

Shiksha.com conducted a recent poll to gain insights into whether the CFA aspirants have a Plan B if in case they do not qualify the CFA exam. The CFA exam is conducted by the CFA Institute and is considered one of the toughest exams in the finance industry.

The poll results reveal a mix of confidence and openness to alternative career options for CFA candidates. The poll results reveal:

  • 34% of the aspirants are confident in their ability to pass the CFA exam. They are not considering alternatives and are committed to achieving the CFA designation.
  • 11% of the aspirants say they will retake the exam and have a determined mindset to clear the exam. They are persistent to earn the CFA charter.
  • 8% of the aspirants are willing to explore Chartered Accountancy (CA) as an alternative if they do not pass the CFA exam. They view CA as a viable backup option.
  • 32% of the aspirants are also considering a backup option, i.e. MBA in Finance.
  • 15% of the aspirants do not have a backup plan or have not thought about a Plan B.

Shiksha’s CFA Poll Analysis

Many candidates believe in their ability to clear the CFA exam, while others are considering alternative options including CA and MBA in Finance.

CA focuses more on skills such as accounting and taxation and is a popular choice among candidates looking to build a career in the finance field.

MBA in Finance on the other hand is also a viable option for candidates interested in managerial roles within the field of finance. MBA offers a broader career path in fields such as investment banking, corporate finance, financial consulting, etc. Candidates think an MBA can be a more structured route to leadership positions in the corporate world.

Should the CFA Candidates Have a Plan B?

CFA charter is a highly reputed credential but is also considered one of the most difficult ones. Having a Plan B can be considered a strategic move. Diversifying career options will ensure flexibility in the ever-evolving finance and management industry. MBA, CA, or other finance certifications can be considered good options for candidates seeking roles in the finance industry.

Explore important events of CFA
Registration Syllabus CFA vs MBA CA vs CFA

Q:   Is there an age limit to appear for CFA?

A:

There is no specific age limit for candidates who wish to take the CFA exams. The CFA Institute, which administers the CFA Program, does not impose age restrictions on candidates. The CFA Program is open to individuals from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds, and candidates can pursue the CFA charter at any age, provided they meet the educational and work experience requirements.

However, it's important to note that to become a CFA charterholder, candidates must meet the following minimum eligibility criteria, which do not include an age requirement:

  • Candidates must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or be in the final year of their bachelor's degree.
  • Candidates must have four years of qualified work experience in the investment decision-making process. This experience can be obtained before, during, or after taking the CFA exams.
  • Candidates must agree to adhere to the CFA Institute's ethical and professional standards.

Q:   How many times can one give CFA Exam level 1 in one enrollment?

A:
First time CFA programme applicants pay an initial one-time enrollment fee plus an exam registration fee for level 1. Returning candidates pay only the exam registration fee. All fees are in U.S. dollars. Enrollment and registration fees are nontransferable and nonrefundable. The answer to your question is that there is no age limit, no limit on the number of attempts and no deadline to complete CFA. The only basic requirements are the applicant should be in the final year of graduation to appear for CFA level 1, have an international credit card, and a valid passport. Also, he needs to complete graduation to appear for CFA level 2 and CFA level 3. Even if you clear CFA level 1 and decide to complete level 2 and level 3 later on in 5-6 years or more, your CFA level 1 result will be valid for lifetime.

Q:   Does CFA require Mathematics?

A:

Mathematics is covered in some of the Chartered Financial Analyst course material. The positive aspect is that most of these concepts just require basic math with an understanding of statistics and algebra. Therefore, you need to have your calculator ready before you appear for your CFA exams.

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About the Author
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Saumya Jain
Assistant Manager- Content

With over 7 years of editorial experience, Saumya has been a writer at Shiksha for over four years. With a bachelor's degree in English literature from Delhi University, she loves to write. A true Delhiite and her l... Read Full Bio

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