advanced c++ or CFA exam

[christinezxh]

I successfully completed QuantNet C++ in Financial Engineering and Python course. And I was recently debating whether to take the QuantNet advanced C++ course and other math courses or to take the CFA Level I exam. I am unsure if the CFA will help with the application to the MFE program or my future career, and I've been given different suggestions on this question. So I would like to hear different people's opinions. Thank you so much for giving me any advice!

 

[SD_]

CFA L1 is very basic in derivatives, PM, Fixed Income, and other topics that are relevant to Quantitative finance, and includes equity valuation, accounting, and corporate finance which are not relevant. If you see the weightage of the exam, it is very heavy on these irrelevant topics and therefore, you will be spending weeks on these topics.

In my opinion, working on Math and Programming will be much more fruitful.

However, CFA L1 might help you in your UCB application (see https://haas.berkeley.edu/wp-content/uploads/mfe_checklist.pdf)

 

[Jack Yen]

I have cleared CFA level 2 and Quantnet C++ like you. (but my CFA exam fee was got reimbursed by my employer)
I think Advanced C++ is more helpful when doing interview. I am considering taking it in the next few months.