Can I Write Attempted CFA Level 1 on My Resume?

The decision to include your attempt to pass the CFA Level 1 exam on your resume depends on various factors, including the context of your application and the policies of the organization you are targeting. To provide a comprehensive understanding, let's explore the different perspectives and guidelines surrounding this decision.

Include Your Attempt for Showcase

Many professionals and career advisors suggest that it is perfectly acceptable to include information about attempting the CFA Level 1 in your resume if you did not pass the exam. This can demonstrate your dedication and effort towards a valued certification without overstating your qualifications. This approach can be helpful in certain situations, such as:

Highlighting your commitment and effort to professional development. Encouraging discussion during interviews about your background and aspirations. Providing a complete picture of your experience and educational journey.

To incorporate this information effectively, you might frame it along with other relevant experiences, such as:

    * Applied to the CFA Level 1 exam middot; [year]  * Pursued CFA level 1 preparation materials middot; [year]

This addition can make your resume more comprehensive, without altering the truth of your academic achievements.

Writing ‘Passed CFA Level 1’ is Recommended

It is generally advisable to only include ‘Passed CFA Level 1’ on your resume if you have successfully completed and passed this exam. The CFA Institute has specific guidelines about how candidates can present their achievements, which should form the basis of your decision regarding what to include.

CFA Institute Guidelines

The CFA Institute, the governing body for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification, has strict policies about how candidates can present their status. According to their norms, candidates who have cleared any of the CFA levels or have completed significant parts of the curriculum can be mentioned as 'CFA Level 1 candidate' or other relevant terms, but not attempting or partially completed levels.

Specifically, the CFA Institute's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct emphasize the importance of truthfulness and transparency in presenting one's credentials. Candidacy and the circumstances surrounding one's progress, such as passing the exam or attempting to pass but not succeeding, should be communicated accurately and transparently.

Note that success in the CFA Level 1 exam is a critical threshold. Until you have passed it, it is advisable to avoid writing anything that suggests you have achieved this milestone on your resume.

Using Your Resume as a Tool

Your resume is a powerful communication tool, and you have the freedom to include any relevant information that best represents you and your skills. However, the value of including partial or attempted exams on your resume is often limited.

While you can write:

    * Attempted to pass CFA Level 1 middot; [year]

It is generally more impactful to focus on your qualifications, practical experience, and other achievements that are more directly relevant to the job or role you are applying for. Writing that you 'cleared CFA Level 1' is more succinct and effective, assuming you have actually passed the exam.

When to Mention Your Attempted CFA Level 1:

During interview discussions, providing a comprehensive background of your journey towards the CFA certification. In personal statements or cover letters where you can elaborate on your ambitions and educational path.

Conclusion - Ultimately, the decision to include attempted or partially completed CFA levels on your resume should be grounded in the context of your application and the policies of the organizations you are targeting. Whether you write it or not, ensure that your resume remains both accurate and compelling, aligning with the industry standards and the CFA Institute's guidelines.