Is it too late to start? like, University, background, studying, accounts

whew1110

Hello,

As the name implies, I'm torn between the MBA and CFA. I signed up for the December exam but have fallen behind on studying since I took the GMAT earlier this month.

My background is a bachelor degree in history (Top 10 Online University) with a solid understanding of finance (my sister works in accounts receivables). Likewise, I'm an avid equestrian which, alone, illustrates my comprehension of the finer things in life.

I'd like to sit for the December exam since the entrance fee is now a sunk cost. How many days should I allocate? Should I order Stalla or Schweser?

Anyone have a comprehensive formula sheet to share?

shootingstar

CFAvsMBA

The key is Investopedia....no, I'm not talking about the Investopedia CFA review materials, rather I recommend signing up for an account and opting to receive their "term of the day". I have been soley studying these as they arrive in my E-mail each morning and believe with such a conceptual exam as L1, this is the only way to prepare adequately.

All the best,
-Tom

suyash1989

Just read the LOS and you'll be fine - you'll want to be sure to reference your love of all things equestrian on your resume, which you should bring and have printed on the finest parchment.

I prefer calculators that are solar powered - you hedge against the risk of battery failure that way. Make sure it can multiply.

Good luck in your MBA, and props for the top 10 education - that will help dramatically with the FSA section.

Bluetick1010

Thanks for the tip on bringing my resume. Great idea, I'll network over lunch.

Superinconsistent are you mocking me? I am a college graduate whom is savvy in all things quantitative. Why on Earth would I need to bring a calculator or consider what type to bring?

I came on this forum for thoughtful guidance and advice, not to get berated with insults.

farrukhsadiq

CFAvsMBA,

Just curios, how did you do on the GMAT?

chetan86

CFAvsMBA,

Too late or not too late is a relative term. If you think you can devote at least 250 to 300 hrs reading the material before Dec exam then it's not too late. That being said, it means approx 15hrs of study everyday....no breaks. Weigh your options, there is no harm in trying.....worst case scenario, you won't make it...which will be the scenario if you don't sit in the exam...so why not give it a shot. My sincere suggestion...get started immediately.

PS: Schweser is probably your best option.

Good Luck

leadcfa

CFA vs. MBA

The CFAI only allows two types of calculators: HP 12c and TI BA II. They both work very differently and take some getting used to. While you may be very intelligent, a lot of preparation is required for this exam. It may "only be Level 1" but it covers a lot of information in a large number of topics.

I wish you a lot of luck over the next few weeks. You may find yourself sprinting a marathon over the next couple of weeks. Good luck!

rgonzalez

Hahaha that brother said crush a few natties together - if you're ever taking an exam in the midwest I'll buy you a 12 pack of natty ice and crush one of them with you guy.

koba

I have the same question. Is it too late to start?

I registered for Level 1 back in March since I would like to move from IT to VC. The portfolio managers 3 doors down from my office suite said the CFA was the optimal way in.

Now that the exam is 3 weeks out, I feel I have ample time to make to some progress and pass. Can anyone share their strategy?

Also, can anyone email me their cheat sheet? I'm well aware that a formula sheet is allowed in the June 2010 testing window.

waldziuchna

"I'm well aware that a formula sheet is allowed in the June 2010 testing window."

whats this supposed to mean?