Becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst in Malaysia: Step-wise Process and Scope in 2025

If you’re thinking about becoming a chartered financial analyst in Malaysia, you are in the right place. This article will discuss different aspects of obtaining a CFA certification, like what you need to do to become a CFA professional and eligibility criteria to earn it. This is a comprehensive guide for all those aspiring to become CFA charter holders.

The Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) Program is a globally recognized professional certification program in the finance and investment landscape. It is considered as most prestigious and well-known investment management certification in the world. The CFA syllabus focuses on the field of global investment management from a practitioner’s stance. The course provides the basis for advanced investment, analysis, and real-world portfolio management abilities, along with the practical knowledge required in today’s investing sector. More than 150,000 investment professionals from 163 countries participate in this internationally renowned professional certification program. 

Hopefully, you got some understanding of the significance and scope of CFA. Let’s understand its process. 

How to Become a Chartered Financial Analyst in Malaysia: Key Requirements 

This is the step-wise process to become a successful CFA professional in Malaysia: 

Step 1: Apply for a CFA Course

The first step towards becoming a chartered financial analyst in Malaysia is to enroll in the CFA course. To be eligible for the CFA program, you should either possess a bachelor’s degree or a similar qualification,  be in your final year of a bachelor’s degree program, and have four years of experience working professionally, even if it’s not in the investing sector, or possess a minimum of four years of combined professional work experience and education. 

Before enrolling in any CFA course, you must have four-year work experience as full, and part-time work is not permitted.

Additionally, you should hold the latest foreign travel passport to register for the exam and have access to the exam center. 

Mirchawala’s Hub of Accountancy is a reputed CFA institute offering a comprehensive training program to make you exam-ready. Consider enrolling at Mirchawala to ensure your success in the exam. 

Step 2: Complete CFA Levels 1, 2, and 3 Exam

Each of the three curriculum levels in the CFA course has its exam. You need to qualify for every exam to receive the CFA charter and become a chartered financial analyst in Malaysia.

Level 1 assesses your knowledge of professional and ethical norms and includes comprehension questions about investment tools.

Level 2 focuses on more complex analysis and asset valuation and assesses your ability to apply those standards to the scenarios analysts face.

Level 3 evaluates your proficiency in applying the standards in the context of compliance and portfolio management. In a variety of applications, it also demands the synthesis of all the ideas and analytical techniques.

Step 3: Earn the Required Work Experience

Before, during, or after enrolling in the CFA program, consider completing the necessary job experience to become a Chartered Financial Analyst in Malaysia. Your experience must directly impact the investment decision-making process or the development of a work product that supports or improves it.

Step 4:  Obtain Expert References for Membership Application

To strengthen your CFA membership application, try to get at least two or three professional references. References will be asked about your professional style and job history.

Step 5: Apply to Join the CFA Institute

The final step to becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst in Malaysia is to apply to become a regular member of the CFA Institute. After your application is approved and you become a member of the CFA Institute, you will receive your CFA charter. 

Advantages of Becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst in Malaysia 

Qualifying for the CFA exam is challenging, but the number of benefits the CFA charter offers is worth it. With the right set of strategies, hard work, and commitment, you can ensure your success and make a growing career. Here is the list of benefits CFA certification offers: 

  • Career Advancement: In a variety of financial domains, the CFA certification in Malaysia can help you get access to better career opportunities. You can obtain higher pay, have more job stability, and join exclusive professional networks if you hold the CFA charter.
  • Global Recognition: The CFA certification is regarded as a mark of distinction all around the world. It makes you stand out among other professionals in the field, increasing your credibility and global marketability.
  • Professional Development: The Chartered Financial Analyst course in Malaysia broadens and evaluates your knowledge. You will gain important analytical abilities to understand the difficulties of the financial sector by finishing this course.
  • Ethical Leadership: By following the CFA Institute’s Code of Ethics, you become a responsible leader in the financial sector and help create a more trustworthy and honest economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is CFA Recognised in Malaysia?

Ans: Yes, CFA is recognized and considered as a highly respected qualification in the financial realm. 

Q: How can I prepare for the CFA Exam in Malaysia?

Ans: For every exam level, the CFA Institute advises giving at least 300 hours of preparation. Besides, you are sure you are using the most effective study techniques to ace the exam and start early to avoid having to rush through your preparation.

Q: How many years does it take to become a CFA in Malaysia?

Ans: The “Chartered Financial Analyst” entails three stages of the professional courses including knowledge, skill, and professional level. Aspirants need to complete this course, which takes two to three years, and they must pass ten exams at each level.

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