Study CFS (Certified Finance Specialist) in Qatar
The Certified Finance Specialist (CFS) qualification builds real expertise in corporate finance, capital budgeting, financial accounting, working-capital management, capital markets and business combinations — validated and awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), with exams delivered through Pearson VUE at our approved Doha centre.
An internationally recognised finance qualification
CFS is validated and awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and recognised on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at Level 8, with 80 credit points. On completion you can use the post-nominal letters ‘CFS’ after your name.
Who should study CFS?
There are no formal entry requirements — CFS is open to everyone, from school leavers to postgraduates and working professionals who want stronger financial management skills.
Financial managers
Professionals who take regular financial decisions for their business.
University students
Students considering a career in finance and/or further study.
Independent learners
Anyone with a general interest in finance and business.
Top reasons to join CFS
Earn a globally recognised finance credential — and use the post-nominal letters ‘CFS’ after your name.
Qualification structure
How can I complete CFS?
Duration & preparation
Total time depends on your background, but Excellence recommends 3–6 months. Exams can be taken at any time of the year, so you prepare at your own pace. Our course book is sufficient to ensure exam success, and our practice questions help you evaluate your own progress.
CFS exams
You need a minimum of 50% to pass. If you don’t pass, you can resit — there is no limit on resits. Exams are conducted at registered Pearson centres, and Excellence Training Centre is an approved exam centre in Qatar.
| Number of exams | 1 |
| Unit | Finance |
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Question format | 20 qualitative MCQs × 2 marks (40) + 15 quantitative MCQs × 4 marks (60) |
| Total marks | 100 |
| Pass mark | 50% |
| Delivered via | Pearson VUE |
Learning outcomes — Finance
The nature and scope of financial strategy · capital investment · methods of investment appraisal · project appraisal (sensitivity analysis & capital rationing) · share capital · capital structure · capital markets · stock-market efficiency · dividend policy · working-capital management · management of inventory, cash & payables · business combinations · business valuations · company restructuring · Islamic finance · practice questions & assessments.
CFS course & exam fees
For current CFS course and exam fees, message us on WhatsApp or request a call back and we’ll share the latest package details.
Why study CFS with IQN and Excellence Training Centre?
Excellence Training Centre and IQN work together to build a better future for students pursuing a career in finance.
Market leader
The market leader in all major finance and accountancy qualifications in Qatar, training since 2011.
Recognised quality
Recognised by various professional bodies for the quality of our training and exam delivery.
Award-winning faculty
Local and visiting lecturers who have produced global prize winners across subjects, courses and countries.
E-learning portal
An online portal with a discussion forum and video-recorded lectures of your classes.
One-on-one support
The only centre with full-time lecturers plus dedicated student-development lecturers.
About IQN
A global organisation offering accredited, flexible, fast-track professional and diploma qualifications in business, delivered through registered centres worldwide.
CFS in Qatar — frequently asked questions
Who awards the CFS qualification?
CFS is validated and awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and is recognised on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at Level 8, with 80 credit points.
Are there any entry requirements for CFS?
No. There are no formal entry requirements — CFS is open to everyone, from school leavers to postgraduates and working professionals who want stronger financial management skills.
How is CFS assessed?
Through one 60-minute exam on the Finance unit: 20 qualitative MCQs (2 marks each) and 15 quantitative MCQs (4 marks each), totalling 100 marks. You need 50% to pass, and there is no limit on resits.
Where can I sit the CFS exam?
Exams are delivered through Pearson VUE at registered centres. Excellence Training Centre is an approved exam centre in Qatar.
How long does CFS take to complete?
Excellence recommends 3–6 months, but you can prepare at your own pace because exams can be taken at any time of the year.
What does the CFS Finance unit cover?
Financial strategy; capital investment and appraisal; share capital and capital structure; capital markets and market efficiency; dividend policy; working capital management; business combinations, valuations and restructuring; and Islamic finance.
Request a call back
Leave your details and our finance team will call you back — usually the same day.
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Start your CFS journey in Qatar today
Build in-demand finance expertise with an SQA-awarded qualification and 15+ years of finance training in Doha. Contact us: (+974) 7770 2114.