CFA vs CPA Comparison: Choose the Right Certification

By IIC Lakshya

14 Jan 2026

Others

CFA vs CPA Comparison: Choose the Right Certification

If you are a Commerce student or a 12th pass from any stream and are planning to pursue a career in the finance and accounting industry, this article is for you. The two significant certifications, namely Chartered Financial Analyst and Certified Public Accountant, can help you create a lucrative future career path.

What is CFA?

The full form of a CFA is Chartered Financial Analyst, a designation specializing in investment management and analysis. A finance professional has to earn this designation after pursuing a course designed and administered by the CFA Institute. There is a great CFA scope and job opportunities in India and abroad. The following roles and responsibilities are a part of this job profile and certification:

Management of investment portfolios
Assessment of financial markets
Making informed decisions related to investment and risk management
Understanding and implementing ethics and professional standards

What is CPA?

The CPA or Certified Public Accountant is a professional with skills and competencies in the accounting industry. Pursuing the course administered by the Board of Accountancy of every State, candidates learn about developing insights from financial statements. Learn how to become a CPA in India here. It educates candidates to become competent in the following areas:

Financial reporting
Auditing
taxation

Key Differences: CFA vs CPA

If you are planning a career in the accounting and finance industry, you need to learn about the features of these qualifications. Furthermore, read the CFA course fees structure 2025, which will guide you effectively. Below are the key differences between CFA and CPA as certifications, and how they impact the career path of professionals.

Features	CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)	CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
Primary Field	Investments Portfolio Management	Accounting Taxation Auditing
Certification Issuer	CFA Institute	AICPA & State Boards
Examination Details	Three levels of the exam	Four sections of the exam
Geography	Global	U.S. Focused
Career Paths	Asset management Investment banking Financial advisory Hedge funds Equity research	Corporate accounting Government Auditing Public accounting (Big 4)

Eligibility Criteria: CFA vs CPA

Candidates must meet specific educational requirements and have relevant experience for both CFAs and CPAs. Read here the features to learn how to become a CFA. Knowing these criteria will help determine the competency and skills level required in several areas. You also get to learn about what a CPA course is!

Features	CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)	CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
Examination type	Three-part CFA exam	Four-part CPA exam
Education requirements	Bachelor’s degree	Bachelor’s degree Minimum of 150 hours of post-secondary education
Relevant work experience	1000 to 4000 hours of relevant work experience Work experience might not be related to investment	Accounting work of Full-time Accounting work of Part-time, or equivalent
Continuous professional education	A minimum of 20 CPE credits yearly	Most States require an average of 40 CPE credits annually

Careers & Scope: CFA vs CPA

There are diverse career paths available after a candidate completes their qualifications in CFA or CPA. The process of becoming a CPA is flexible compared to the CFA. There are several benefits of doing CFA after CA. The roles and responsibilities include working in the auditing profession, financial planning, consulting, and tax preparation. Follow the common features in both qualifications.

Features	CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)	CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
Main focus	Finance Investments	Accounting Auditing Taxes
Primary tasks and responsibilities	Financial analysis Wealth and growth management Financial advising	Auditing Financial reporting Taxe evaluation
Potential job roles	Portfolio manager Investment consultant Investment banker Research analyst CIO Financial risk analyst	Public accountant Tax specialist/ manager Controller Auditor Forensic accountant Auditor CFO

Wrapping Up!

In conclusion, there is no simpler choice when evaluating the two qualifications, CFA vs CPA. This article offers you information about both courses, which will enlighten you to make a decision about your qualifications to create your future career. If you are planning to work related to financial services, CFA is your go-to! CPA is your approach towards taxation, auditing, and litigation.

Frequently Asked Questions on CFA vs CPA

How many attempts at CPA?

All candidates are allowed to attempt the CPA exam three times to qualify for the certification.

Will CFA expire?

Your results of the CFA exam and certification do not expire.

Should I get both CPA and CFA?

If someone plans to work in the research department of hedge funds, mutual funds, or investment banks, aiming for finance roles and the investment community, a CPA and CFA are a great combination.

Can I do a CPA in 3 months?

The CPA exam consists of four sections, which can be challenging to complete within three months. However, it is not impossible because with determination and the right strategy, it can be done.

Is CPA better than CFA?

We cannot identify any certification to be better, neither CPA nor CFA. The certifications are both significant, different, and applicable for professionals to create their future opportunities.