CFA Training – Should you go for Classroom or Self-study learning?

CFA training Classroom study or Self-study what to prefer, there has always been a debate between the two mediums of studying among the students. The two methods of studying have their own pros and cons which have been pulled apart and it is up to the students what they are comfortable with.

The primary proposition of the CFA Classroom Study or Self-study debate is the fact that the whole classroom teaching set up has been a good decision because you will have faculties to teach you and clear all your doubts on the spot. Whereas coming to self-study, you need to motivate yourself to study. Self-study can’t be done if you are the person who needs someone to push you to study.

CFA self-study will work only if you are truly enthusiastic about it and dedicated. Coming to CFA training Classroom, it makes almost impossible for you to skip studying in the classroom as faculties provide you with the detailed notes and explanations for the topics. Self-study can only be done if you could discipline yourself to study.

Classroom CFA training helps you out with starting a completely fresh topic without any difficulty, as all the new concepts could be explained by the expert in the classroom only whereas coming to starting a new topic on your own is not that easy task.

Another important thing classroom maintains your study routine. Attending a classroom saves you in a great way if at all you are not much into it at least you will get an idea what all topics are covered under a particular subject, even if you can’t grasp all the topics in the class. Learning is a complex thing. It is not possible for everyone to fit in the same medium because everybody has their own way to study and grasp. Also, you can’t be dependent on teachers when it comes to preparing for an exam or competitions because exams can’t be cleared until and unless you study all the concepts taught in the classroom by yourself.

The other fact is Classroom CFA training motivates you to interact with other students in the classroom and provides you with a collaborative learning which gets possible with your participation and discussions. On the other hand, some say self-study might be good to allow you to concentrate well. If you won’t go the classroom that would prevent you to grow when it comes to interpersonal interaction skills.

The biggest drawback of self-study is that you can’t achieve your goal without setting up a proper schedule and you make sure to follow it which is not that easy. On the other hand, classroom study is carried out by certified teachers with years of experience which helps you to provide deep knowledge of the concepts.

The below questions can help you decide whether you are better off studying on your own or would benefit better in a classroom environment:

  • Are you somebody who never had to be told to study, would study on your own and still do well?
  • Do you have an above average grasping power and fast-paced reading skills?
  • Are you a visual learner (you need to read and see things to learn) or an auditory learner (you need to hear and listen to learn)?
  • Do you work best when someone gives you deadlines or when you are independent?

Candidates, who are innately self-driven, prefer learning visually and independently and grasp new things fast, tend to do fine with the self-study option. If these are not your strong points, you may benefit significantly with the help of a classroom training program.

Below are the pros and cons of Classroom Training vs. Self Study.

Classroom CFA Training Self Study CFA Training
Pros 1. All topics will be covered in time
2. Complex concepts explained + Doubt clearing sessions
3. Peer interaction and benchmarking
4. Lots of practice / mock tests
1. No fees
2. Odd hours / Ad-hoc study timings as per convenience
3. Topics can be covered in any order
Cons 1. Fixed time commitment
2. Topics covered in a particular order
3. Fees to be paid
1. Fewer practice options / mock tests
2. No benchmarking or peer group
3. Nobody to explain complex concepts / solve doubts
4. Topics may remain incomplete