The simple answer is no. Having the CFA designation on your resume is nice, but it will not make up for your grades, extracurricular activities and work experience. If a firm wants you to earn a certain certification, they will let you know once you have been hired and most likely pick up the cost for you; however, that doesn’t mean you can’t do it.
Getting a head start is a nice way to take a little extra load off of yourself once you begin your full-time career, and frankly may be worth the few hundred dollars in the costs you incur. If you're planning a career in asset management, hedge funds, or research, there's a chance that at some point your firm will want you to get your CFA. It never hurts to be ahead of the curve!
The CFA can also be beneficial if you are attending a non-target or aren't working towards a business-related degree. It will show your interest in finance and help you tell "your story".
Relevant Discussions on Wall Street Oasis:
- For Those Who Are Anti-CFA
- Should I Study for the CFA?"
- Analyst in PWM: CFA or MBA?
- CFA Now Less Valuable?
Additional Resources:
- Certifications: Will the CPA designation add to my resume?
- Certifications: Will the CAIA help my job prospects?
- Search WSO for: "Should I get my CFA?"
- Relevant WSO Forums: Get a Job
- Relevant WSO Guides: A Look Behind the Wall: An Overview of Six Wall Street Career Paths and Networking Guide
- Relevant WSO Services: Finance Resume Review
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