The CSFA™ Standard now integrates the original Level 1 and part of Level 2 modules, providing candidates with more exposure, knowledge and practice to this high-growth, fast-evolving financial sector.
CSFA™ Standard candidates are required to take 6-module, twelve (12) 2-hour online classes taught by leading faculties from our training partner: the Sustainable Finance Institute (SFI).
CSFA™ Standard candidates will also have access to pre-recorded modules focusing on the background and global drive towards sustainable finance.
Due to the pandemic and shifting learning paradigm, WSFA is working closely with SFI to bring all courses online. Candidates now have the options to take online courses or traditional in-person, face-to-face instruction at carefully selected locations*.
Depending on prior experience and exposure, candidates often spend hours of extracurricular studies (our recent study shows 20-200 hours), including researching, case analysis and book readings.
* Please contact CSFA@sfini.org for qualified locations in your region.
CSFA™ Standard candidates are required to take an online examination and score 80 (out of 100) or above. The test is administered by WSFA with the assistance from the Sustainable Finance Institute.
CSFA™ Standard candidates who finish all online modules and pass the exam with a score of 80 (out of 100) or above will be certified as “Certified Sustainable Finance Analyst: CSFA™” professional.
Be a student (Year 1 through 4) of a bachelor’s program from an accredited college or university, or complete a bachelor’s program or equivalent program and has received a degree from the college/university.
Language Proficiency: The CSFA™ Program is currently offered in English. Courses, exams, and thesis require English proficiency for reading comprehension and formulating reasoning to complex ESG analytical scenarios.
However, CSFA™ is working with partners on developing local language versions. CSFA™ Local may also introduce localized contents such as case studies, exams, group discussions, portfolio companies, speakers, and teaching assistants. Final thesis and course related writings in local language can also be accepted provided such writings can be critiqued by certified WSFA instructors with comprehensive knowledge of the language.
Email to: CSFA@sfina.org or consult with your local World Sustainable Finance Association branch or partner if you cannot meet the English proficiency requirement or to otherwise help clarify if you can meet our minimum standards for participation.
Please note that the World Sustainable Finance Association (WSFA) may request proof of education and/or work experience to be submitted at any stage of your journey as a candidate or even after becoming a certified member. Failure to provide requested documentation may result in cancellation of a current CSFA™ program participation, voiding of past certification, and may lead to investigation and disciplinary action by the World Sustainable Finance Association’s Professional Conduct Department.
CSFA™ was traditionally offered as customized training programs to specific corporate, firm, region as well as other groups of professionals such as investment chains. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic which has impacted all aspects of global businesses, as well as an outpouring of demand from ESG and sustainable investing professionals worldwide, the board of the World Sustainable Finance Association has decided to bring traditional in-person, face-to-face, and customized curriculum to an online setting in order to standardize the certification process. We strive to deliver the most cutting-edge sustainable finance theories and practices to a safe, interactive, and more connected environment.
Currently, all CSFA™ programs are taught online, live, by faculties from our training partner - the Sustainable Finance Institute.
Upon signup, candidates will have access to their online accounts to take WSFA-approved, SFI faculty-led, TA (teaching assistant) assisted classes. Candidates are also required to finish each module’s assignments, including videos, case studies, research reports, and assigned readings.
- Candidate’s Name,
- Date of Birth,
- University/College attended,
- Course #,
- and the Semester/Year where this study took place.
Upon verification, WSFA will send out certification within 15 days.
Noted: Since the certification education process is based on live teaching and group learning, SFI will pool a minimum of 10 candidates from around the world to form a Certification Training Class (CTC). Any candidate meeting the following criteria (see next section) should send an email to: CSFA@sfini.org to confirm a slot in a Class. The Classes are normally given every 30 days. We recommend candidates to register at least 30 days prior to the intended starting date.
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