Some questions regarding QFA

stana

I'm currently in a quandary as to where to go next in my career. I obtained a degree in business management years back but never really acted on it. The job I'm in at the moment is a dead end job where I've hit a ceiling, and I'm not learning anything new or gaining any satisfaction from it. I'm 33 now so maybe it's a little late to making a move like this but I've been taking a look (and still looking) at doing the QFA exams. I've a couple of questions so I'd really appreciate it if you guys have some advice that you could share.

1. What are the typical career opportunities for someone with a QFA Diploma?
2. Where are the best places to try to get some work with whilst studying?
3. It's a long while since I sat an exam, how difficult are they?
4. Should I go with LIA or IOB (same qualification but I can't distinguish between the two)?
5. I see that the next exam date is in May (close off March 3rd). Does that mean you can really only start studying from March 3rd?
6. If I was to study two modules for the May exams, is this too ambitious? Or is it fairly achievable?
7. Lastly (for the moment anyway!), if I was to start with two modules, would Loans and Life Assurance be the best starting point?


Apologies if I've posted this in the wrong section.


Thanks.

1. What are the typical career opportunities for someone with a QFA Diploma?
Anything from life insurance sales to bank clerk to car sales (yes, car sales, finance is big nowadays in that game)
2. Where are the best places to try to get some work with whilst studying?
dunno
3. It's a long while since I sat an exam, how difficult are they?
Quite simple, 5 of the 6 are multiple choice, negative marking applies though but still there are not at all difficult
4. Should I go with LIA or IOB (same qualification but I can't distinguish between the two)?
As you say same qualification, matters little
5. I see that the next exam date is in May (close off March 3rd). Does that mean you can really only start studying from March 3rd?
No, once you pay you receive the text book / pdf applicable, exam guide etc, you can start straight away
6. If I was to study two modules for the May exams, is this too ambitious? Or is it fairly achievable?
Very achievable
7. Lastly (for the moment anyway!), if I was to start with two modules, would Loans and Life Assurance be the best starting point?
Well if you are looking for work and doing two modules it might be best to do regulation as one of the two. Regulation + AN Other will have you able to be accredited as an approved product advisor in life insurance, pensions or whatever the 2nd one is.
Makes the job hunting a tad easier IMO

bmwguy

I did professional accounting exams and QFA. The QFA are Mickey mouse easy in comparison.

Work as an accountant but the QFA is more interesting all the same. Relates more to personal stuff, accounting is business stuff.

Full Marx

Well folks, the closing date for registering for the exams is 27/1. Does that mean it has to be done by midnight tonight or by close of business tomorrow?

I'm hoping tomorrow, I had got it in my head for some reason that the date was the first of feb and wont be able to register until tomorrow when I can ring them.

ixus

What is your background and experience?

What are you actually interested in, dream job? Chase work in that field.