The CFA and the CPA are two of the most respected credentials in finance, but they point toward different careers — investment management versus accounting and audit. They also differ enormously in structure and time commitment.
| CFA Level I | CPA Exam | |
|---|---|---|
| Exam body | CFA Institute | AICPA |
| Questions | 180 | 100 |
| Time limit | 270 min | 240 min |
| Passing score | Varies | 75% |
| Topics covered | 10 | 6 |
| CertPractice price | $39/mo | $29/mo |
Choose the CFA for investment management, research, and portfolio roles. Choose the CPA for accounting, audit, and tax — and where a license to sign filings matters.
The most respected investment credential globally. Tests knowledge of ethics, analysis, and portfolio theory across all asset classes.
Start studying First chapter freeThree Core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) plus one Discipline of your choice (BAR, ISC, or TCP). Each section is a separate 4-hour exam. Passing score: 75 on a 0–99 scale.
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