Should you get a certification (AMF, CFA, etc.) while studying?

As competition for internships or first jobs in finance intensifies, professional certifications are increasingly seen as assets to stand out. AMF, CFA, Bloomberg, ESG… more and more students choose to pursue one (or several) during their studies. But is it really useful? When should you take them? And which ones are the most relevant depending on your career goals?

Why consider a finance certification while studying?

First, it helps build credibility with recruiters. Between two candidates with similar backgrounds, the one displaying a relevant certification on their CV can quickly gain an advantage. Certifications are perceived as a positive signal: they demonstrate intellectual rigor, the ability to learn independently, and a strong interest in the sector.

They also allow you to acquire concrete technical skills. Some certifications go beyond theoretical validation, enabling mastery of tools or knowledge directly usable in internships: Excel, financial modeling, portfolio analysis, risk management, understanding regulatory requirements, and more.

Finally, it’s a way to get ahead of young professionals. Taking a certification during your studies can lighten the workload once you enter the workforce. Some certifications, like the CFA, are very demanding and difficult to combine with a full-time job. Planning ahead can therefore be strategic.

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Which certification to choose based on your goal?

The AMF: the legal minimum for certain roles

The AMF exam is mandatory to work in certain positions within banks or asset management firms (sales, manager, analyst, etc.). It certifies knowledge of the ethical, legal, and financial rules specific to the French market.

• Difficulty level: reasonable, achievable in a few weeks
• When to take it? Before or during an internship in trading, asset management, or consulting
• Good to know: Many business and engineering schools now include it in their curriculum.

The CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst): the international gold standard

The CFA is the true grail of investment finance. This American certification has three levels and is highly valued in asset management, financial analysis, private equity, and even M&A.

• Difficulty level: very high, each level requires about 300 hours of study
• When to take it? Level I can be taken during a master’s or gap year, preferably near the end of studies. Levels II and III are usually completed after graduation
• Good to know: Starting the CFA during your studies sends a strong signal to Anglo-Saxon recruiters.

ESG certifications (Sustainable Finance, CESGA, etc.)

With the rise of responsible finance, sustainable finance certifications are multiplying. The most known is CESGA (Certified ESG Analyst), highly recognized in Europe.

• For whom? Students targeting ESG investing, extra-financial analysis, or CSR departments in financial institutions.
• When to take it? At the end of studies or alongside a research thesis on ESG.

Technical certifications (Bloomberg, VBA, Excel, Power BI, etc.)

If you aim for a highly technical role (trading, data visualization, financial modeling…), some micro-certifications can make a difference:

• Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC): perfect for learning to use a Bloomberg terminal.
• Excel / VBA / Python certifications: useful in financial analysis, risk management, controlling…
• Power BI / Tableau: valued in hybrid roles between finance and data.

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What are the risks or limitations?

Some certifications lack recognition and might not add value. Beware of accumulating free or lightly supervised badges that are not well-regarded in the industry. Such certifications tend to have limited impact.

Costs can also be high. The CFA costs between €1000 and €1500 per level, excluding training. CESGA costs about €1200. Fortunately, some schools, companies, or regions may offer financial support.

Finally, there’s a risk of overload. Getting certifications is pointless if it causes you to miss concrete opportunities like internships, apprenticeships, travel, or quality research work. A certification should strengthen your profile, not come at the expense of other important experiences.

Should you get a certification now?

Ask yourself:

• Will it be required for an internship or full-time job I want?
• Does it bring me a real skill?
• Do I have enough time to prepare it well without neglecting classes or internships?
• Do I have a clear plan to showcase it on my CV and during interviews?

If you answer yes to most of these, go for it. Otherwise, keep it in mind for later. It’s better to have one well-prepared certification than a long list of useless badges.

In summary, getting a finance certification during your studies can clearly boost your profile—provided you choose the right certification, prepare seriously, and take it at the right time. The goal is not to do too much, but to do it smartly. In a demanding job market, every line on your CV counts: so make it a line that truly speaks to recruiters.