Passed CFA® Level 3 vs. CFA® Charterholder for Hiring Purposes

Just curious if for employers there is a definite difference between "Passed CFA® Level 3" and "CFA® Charterholder". I ask because I want to know if the minimum work experience requirement is not met would a jump to HF be possible in coming years after passing level 3, and, like most monkeys, just trying to plan ahead.

5 Comments
 

I would think that CFA charter holder would be more impressive if only because it implies that you have 4 years of work experience, while passing level 3 doesn't.

"There's nothing you can do if you're too scared to try." - Nickel Creek
 

Doesn't make a huge difference.

"Oh, so you have your letters. That's great." /interview convo moves on

I'm on the pursuit of happiness and I know everything that shine ain't always gonna be gold. I'll be fine once I get it
 
Best Response

I'm in the same boat as you; I've passed all 3 levels but still don't have the CFA designation, and I'm also looking to break into IM careers. Based on my networking discussions, people were very impressed that I was able to pass CFA level 3 without any finance background and they viewed the charter as a pending formality.

Having said that most people would agree that "John Smith, CFA" would definitely look very powerful, short and crisp. You cannot use things like "John Smith, CFA Level 3" or "John Smith, CFA Charter Pending", etc. and probably need a full line of explanation on your resume, which sometimes may not catch the immediate attention of the recruiter. Plus, there is that 4 years of quality experience that you build.

 

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