too late to take the CFA?

CFA General
#1

is it too late for an individual at mid- to late-30’s to resume the CFA? i am in the industry for 10+ years, but the experience has little to do with the CFA. since the 1st deadline is approaching, i am thinking if i should resume and register for L2. i guess the questions are:

-my experience has little to do with CFA, what the probability that i will get a CFA-related job? how valuable is the CFA credential?

-my reason to resume it is that i want to advance my career, would the CFA credential help in this way?

any advice will be appreciated!

#2

I was your age when I decided to take a crack at CFA exams.

A little more detail on what you’re doing now and what you hope to do would be nice.

#3

I earned my charter when I was 40.

#4

No

#5

Majority of my experience is in finance operations, ranging from custody to equity.

#6

Did the CFA recognition help in any way to advance your career? And How? I know everyone’s experience is different, but would like gather as much information as I can. Thanks.

#7

Earning the Charter probably won’t accelerate your career while working for the same company in a Back Office role – but if you decide to make a move then it could very well be the silver bullet on your resume.

#PunIntended

#8

i don’t expect the Charter to “accelerate” my career, but will it help me move up to front office or change career in different fields, such as asset management?

#9

At least for me CFA (I’m lvl3 candidate), has been a life savior. The way I see it is that CFA won’t necessarily get you a job but it will get your foot in the door.

#10

^ Agreed. It’s noticed. Also, firm owners like to have credentialed team members. Clients don’t necessarily know what it means but its shiny.

#11

it’s never too late to study cfa

#12

A colleague of mine was in his late forties, and flew through it. Passed each level first time.

Let me ask you two questions:

  1. If you did it, and passed it do you ever think you would look back and say to yourself you made a mistake in doing it?

  2. If you didn’t do it do you ever think you would look back and say to yourself you made a mistake in not doing it?