About the CFA Charter

The CFA Charter is a distinction granted to those who undertake and pass a rigorous, graduate-level curriculum. The Program links theory and practice with real-world investment analysis and portfolio management skills, and emphasizes the highest ethical and professional standards.

Candidates must pass three exam levels and meet requirements of four years of work experience in the investment industry. They also must pledge to abide by the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, apply to a CFA Institute society and become a member of CFA Institute.

Those who meet the requirements benefit from the extensive knowledge attained in pursuit of the Charter. In addition, they also gain the advantages of membership in an active, global community.

A 50-year history of the CFA Program

Learn how the CFA Program has become the “gold standard” of professionalism in the financial and investment communities. This special commemorative book covers the charter’s first 50 years, revealing how the ideas and perseverance of a few visionaries transformed financial analysis and institutionalized its highest ideals and best practices.

Buy Hardcover ($25)Buy Paperback ($17)

Celebrating in a most unique 24-hour period

In our first-ever rolling global stock market event, CFA Institute and CFA member societies around the world opened or closed 26 stock exchanges within a 24-hour period to mark the 50th anniversary of the CFA charter. The stock market ceremonies represented the greatest number of exchanges worldwide opened or closed by one organization on a single day. There is no better way to celebrate the success and international impact of the CFA Program than with a global event of this magnitude.