Achieving the CFA Milestone at KEDGE Business School
For students pursuing a career in investment management, the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation is a proven benchmark of expertise. In 2025, KEDGE Business School celebrated a remarkable success: Milan Kum Achuo, a master’s candidate in Banking & Finance, received a CFA scholarship and successfully passed the CFA Level III exam on his first attempt. This achievement not only highlights individual dedication but also showcases the strength of KEDGE’s CFA‑aligned curriculum and the school’s commitment to producing finance leaders.
KEDGE’s CFA‑Accredited Program
Since 2024, KEDGE’s Master in Banking & Finance has been officially accredited by the CFA Institute. The accreditation ensures that the program’s syllabus matches the rigor of the CFA curriculum, providing students with a solid foundation in financial analysis, portfolio management and ethical decision‑making. Accredited programs typically receive three annual scholarships worth €1,000 each, prioritising candidates who have already taken the first CFA exam level.
Why Accreditation Matters
- Alignment with Global Standards – The curriculum mirrors the CFA Institute’s learning objectives.
- Recognition by Employers – Graduates are seen as ready to tackle complex investment tasks.
- Access to Resources – Students can leverage CFA study materials and networking events.
Profile of Milan Kum Achuo
Milan completed his Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance at the University of Buea in 2021. Early professional roles included a transactions advisory internship at Mazars and a credit analyst position at United Bank for Africa. These experiences gave him a practical grounding that complemented his academic pursuits.
Key Professional Highlights
- Supported due diligence for mid‑sized M&A transactions in the energy sector.
- Managed a portfolio of over 20 SME and corporate clients, contributing to credit risk assessments.
- Co‑manages family financial investments, conducting research into African startup markets.
Charting the CFA Pathway
Milan’s relationship with the CFA program spans his entire university journey:
- Level I – 2021: First exposure to investment concepts.
- Level II – 2022: Gained deeper analytical skills.
- Level III – 2025: Completed the final exam during a gap year, demonstrating mastery of portfolio construction and performance evaluation.
He postponed Level III initially due to limited application opportunities in Cameroon’s nascent capital markets. The structured support from KEDGE allowed him to prepare intensively and sit for the exam in France.
Preparation Methodology
Milan followed a disciplined study plan, exceeding the recommended 300 study hours. Rather than relying on third‑party preparatory courses, he studied directly from the CFA Institute’s curriculum, valuing its clarity and depth. This approach contributed to his successful first‑attempt results.
The Ripple Effect on Career Trajectory
Passing all three CFA levels equips a candidate with a globally recognised credential that opens doors in asset management, risk consulting, and even academic research. Milan intends to pursue a PhD in Finance, using his CFA experience to inform research on portfolio optimisation within emerging markets.
For other students, the pathway is clear:
- Leverage KEDGE’s CFA‑aligned coursework to prepare for the exams.
- Apply for a scholarship once you demonstrate early success.
- Plan study time around professional commitments to maximise application efficiency.
How KEDGE Supports CFA Aspirants
The school’s scholarship program funds €1,000 per student each year, helping cover exam registration and study costs. Additionally, KEDGE offers:
- Access to faculty with CFA experience.
- Workshops on ethics, portfolio strategy and risk management.
- Networking events with alumni who hold the CFA designation.
Take the Next Step Today
If you’re considering a career in investment management, explore how a CFA‑accredited Master in Banking & Finance at KEDGE can accelerate your progress. The curriculum’s depth, combined with scholarship support, equips students to meet the high demands of the global finance industry.
Explore the MSc Banking & Finance program and discover whether you’re ready for the next level of financial expertise.
Call to Action
Ready to elevate your finance career? Take one of the following steps:
- Submit your application today and begin your journey to a CFA designation.
- Schedule a free consultation to discuss how KEDGE aligns with your professional goals.
- Download our brochure for detailed information on program structure and scholarship opportunities.
- Read our Insights series on the CFA pathway and finance career strategies.
- Join the discussion: Follow KEDGE on Twitter for updates, events, and professional tips.
