CFP vs CFA: Financial Planning or Investment Analysis?
The CFP is built for personal financial planning and advising individuals; the CFA is built for institutional investment analysis. The right one depends on whether you want to work with people or portfolios.
| CFP Exam | CFA Level I | |
|---|---|---|
| Exam body | CFP Board | CFA Institute |
| Questions | 170 | 180 |
| Time limit | 360 min | 270 min |
| Passing score | Varies | Varies |
| Topics covered | 4 | 10 |
| AskBoudin price | $11.99/mo | $11.99/mo |
Which should you take?
Choose the CFP to advise individuals on planning, retirement, and wealth. Choose the CFA for investment analysis and asset management roles.
CFP Exam prep
The premier credential for financial planners. Covers comprehensive planning across investments, insurance, tax, retirement, and estate.
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The most respected investment credential globally. Tests knowledge of ethics, analysis, and portfolio theory across all asset classes.
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