How to Get a Job as a Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts are essential for helping individuals and organizations make informed investment and business decisions. They evaluate financial data, create financial models, and provide insights that drive strategy and profitability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Financial Analysts is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average across all occupations, with approximately 29,900 annual job openings (Investopedia).

Entry-Level Requirements for Financial Analysts

Start with a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related field. A master’s degree—such as an MBA or specialized finance master’s—or having the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification distinguishes candidates. Internships in finance, banking, or corporate roles are highly valuable for building experience.

Expected Salary for Financial Analysts

• Median Salary: $101,350 as of May 2024 (Investopedia)

• Salary Ranges:

  • Entry-Level: around $60,000

  • Mid-Level: approximately $100,000

  • Top Earners at $180,000+

  • Salaries are significantly higher in financial hubs like New York or San Francisco (Investopedia).

Skills and Abilities Needed to Excel

Key competencies include quantitative analysis, financial modelling, proficiency with Excel and financial systems, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication for explaining complex data.

Is Financial Analysis Suitable for Introverts or Extroverts?

While much of the work involves focused, independent analysis—making it well-suited for introverts—financial analysts who excel at presentations and stakeholder engagement will find opportunities to shine.

Top 5 Degree Programs with Best ROI for Financial Analysts

1. Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania (Finance)

2. Booth School of Business, University of Chicago (MBA)

3. Stern School of Business, NYU (Finance)

4. Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley (Finance)

5. Sloan School of Management, MIT (Finance)

Can You Become a Financial Analyst Without a Degree?It’s challenging but possible. With strong self-taught financial modelling skills, an impressive portfolio, certification (like CFA), and domain expertise, some professionals break in via non-traditional paths.

Five Jobs Similar to Financial Analyst

• Investment Analyst

• Portfolio Manager

• Business Analyst

• Risk Analyst

• Corporate Finance Analyst

Top Ten Recruitment Agencies Hiring Financial Analysts

• Robert Half

• Michael Page

• Korn Ferry

• Adecco (Wikipedia)

• Kelly Services (Wikipedia)

• ManpowerGroup (Wikipedia)

• Spencer Stuart

• Lucas Group

• Aerotek

• Hays

Top Ten Employers Hiring Financial Analysts

• JPMorgan Chase

• Goldman Sachs

• Morgan Stanley

• Bloomberg

• Fidelity Investments

• Citigroup

• Bank of America

• UBS

• Wells Fargo

• Cantor Fitzgerald

Top Ten Startups Hiring Financial Analysts

• Robinhood

• Stripe

• Chime

• Plaid

• Brex

• SoFi

• Coinbase

• Better.com

• Square

• Stripe Climate

Becoming a financial analyst offers a combination of analytical challenge and significant impact. With solid education, certifications, and networking, you can build a highly rewarding career. Learn about other high-demand jobs over the next decade here.