If you’re applying for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program, you may need a reference letter from a supervisor or professor. Crafting a strong reference letter can be challenging, but luckily there are numerous examples available. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and seven examples of CFA reference letters to help you get started.
Tips for Writing a Strong CFA Reference Letter
Before we dive into the examples, let’s go over some tips for writing a strong CFA reference letter:
1. Start with a clear and concise title
The title of your reference letter should make it clear that the letter is for the CFA program. This will help the admissions committee quickly identify the purpose of the letter.
2. Provide a detailed and in-depth explanation
When crafting a reference letter, it’s important to provide specific examples and details that demonstrate the applicant’s skills and qualifications. Use concrete examples whenever possible.
3. Use a formal tone and proper formatting
Your reference letter should be written in a formal tone and include proper formatting, including a professional greeting and closing.
4. Follow a clear and logical structure
Your letter should follow a clear and logical structure, with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Make sure your letter flows smoothly and is easy to read.
5. Edit and proofread your letter
Before submitting your letter, make sure to carefully edit and proofread it for errors and typos. Your letter should be polished and free of mistakes.
Seven Examples of CFA Reference Letters
Example 1: CFA Program Admission
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to strongly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission into the CFA program. As [his/her] supervisor for the past two years, I have had the pleasure of watching [him/her] grow and develop into a highly skilled financial analyst.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s skills and qualifications here. For example, you might mention their strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, or ability to work well under pressure.]
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would be an excellent addition to the CFA program and would thrive in the rigorous academic environment. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Example 2: CFA Scholarship Application
Dear Scholarship Committee,
I am pleased to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the CFA scholarship. As [his/her] professor for the past year, I have had the opportunity to work closely with [him/her] and have been consistently impressed with [his/her] academic performance and dedication to the field of finance.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s academic achievements and dedication to the field of finance here. For example, you might mention their high GPA, involvement in finance-related extracurricular activities, or research experience.]
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to the finance industry, and the CFA scholarship would be instrumental in helping [him/her] achieve [his/her] goals. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Example 3: CFA Work Experience Requirement
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to confirm that [Applicant’s Name] has met the work experience requirement for the CFA program. As [his/her] supervisor at [Company Name], I can attest to [his/her] extensive experience in the finance industry.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s work experience here. For example, you might mention their years of experience in the field, their role in managing financial portfolios, or their experience in performing financial analysis.]
Based on [his/her] performance at [Company Name], I am confident that [Applicant’s Name] has the skills and expertise necessary to excel in the CFA program. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Example 4: CFA Exam Preparation Course
Dear Course Instructor,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for the CFA exam preparation course. As [his/her] supervisor at [Company Name], I have had the opportunity to work closely with [him/her] and have been consistently impressed with [his/her] analytical skills and dedication to the field of finance.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s skills and qualifications here. For example, you might mention their experience in financial analysis or their ability to work well under pressure.]
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] would benefit greatly from the CFA exam preparation course and would be a valuable asset to the class. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Example 5: CFA Program Waiver Request
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to request a waiver for [Applicant’s Name] to the work experience requirement for the CFA program. While [he/she] may not meet the traditional work experience requirement, I believe that [his/her] unique background and skills make [him/her] an ideal candidate for the program.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s unique background and skills here. For example, you might mention their experience in a related field or their academic achievements in finance.]
I believe that [Applicant’s Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to the finance industry, and the waiver would be instrumental in helping [him/her] achieve [his/her] goals. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Example 6: CFA Program Admission for International Applicant
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission into the CFA program. As [his/her] supervisor at [Company Name], I have had the pleasure of watching [him/her] grow and develop into a highly skilled financial analyst.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s skills and qualifications here. For example, you might mention their experience working with international clients or their language proficiency in a relevant language.]
As an international applicant, I believe that [Applicant’s Name] brings a unique perspective and skillset to the program. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Example 7: CFA Program Admission for Recent Graduate
Dear Admissions Committee,
I am writing to recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission into the CFA program. As [his/her] professor at [University Name], I have had the pleasure of teaching [him/her] and watching [him/her] excel in the field of finance.
[Provide specific examples of the applicant’s academic achievements and dedication to the field of finance here. For example, you might mention their high GPA, involvement in finance-related extracurricular activities, or research experience.]
As a recent graduate, I believe that [Applicant’s Name] has the potential to make significant contributions to the finance industry and would be an excellent addition to the CFA program. [He/She] has my highest recommendation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Title]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my CFA reference letter?
Your CFA reference letter should include specific examples of the applicant’s skills and qualifications, as well as your recommendation for their admission to the program. Be sure to follow a clear and logical structure and use a formal tone.
How long should my CFA reference letter be?
Your CFA reference letter should be 50 to 80 sentences long, or roughly two paragraphs. Make sure to include enough detail to support your recommendation, but avoid going overboard with unnecessary information.
Do I need to use a specific format for my CFA reference letter?
While there isn’t a specific format for CFA reference letters, it’s important to use a formal tone and proper formatting, including a professional greeting and closing. Make sure your letter follows a clear and logical structure and is easy to read.
How do I edit and proofread my CFA reference letter?
When editing and proofreading your CFA reference letter, read through it carefully for errors and typos. Make sure your letter is polished and free of mistakes. It may be helpful to have someone else read over your letter as well.
Can I use a template for my CFA reference letter?
While it’s fine to use a template as a starting point for your CFA reference letter, make sure to personalize it and include specific examples of the applicant’s skills and qualifications. Your letter should be unique and tailored to the individual applicant.
What is the best way to address my CFA reference letter?
When addressing your CFA reference letter, use a professional greeting such as “Dear Admissions Committee” or “Dear Scholarship Committee.” Make sure to address the letter to the appropriate person or committee.
Conclusion
Writing a strong CFA reference letter can be challenging, but with the tips and examples provided in this article, you should be well on your way to crafting a compelling and effective letter. Remember to provide specific examples, use a formal tone, and follow a clear and logical structure. Good luck!