What is worth of LIFA qualification by International Research Association and what is its authenticity?

Answer 1

I believe it to be a scam and fraudulent. They have been completely rude and unprofessional to me since I signed up for the exam in July 2007. The website refers to a study guide of 1100+ pages (which it did in July 2007 as well). As of January 2008, they still do not have the guide available. I questioned it in an email in mid September 2007 and was told it would be available by the end of the month. Since then, my emails have been replied to with rudeness and sarcasm. I asked for a refund since they haven't been able to provide the material for the last six months and received the following (I'll try for the exact wording... but in any case this is close):

"You're an analyst. Quick, name an industry that hasn't experienced unfortunate delays."

I was also told that although the material wasn't available, I should find another was to study for it. Basically, I wouldn't do business them again and am doing my best to let everyone know. By the way, this isn't an isolated incident. A friend of mine also applied for the exam around the same time and has been treated just about the same way. I would avoid doing business with them and save yourself some trouble. Look to the CFA designation if you want something reputable.

I had the opposite experience. The International Research Association is a very professional organization. The study materials are comprehensive and I downloaded them with no problem. The board of Directors is comprised of industry professionals including MBAs, PhDs, university professors and many CFA charter holders. LIFA is becoming more recognized every day. It is listed as a designation on various publications and resources that ask what professional designations are held. Thomson Prometric is a professional testing organization used by many industries, including financial services, for independent, supervised testing purposes. Exams are time limited and no outside materials are allowed in the room. You cannot even take your watch and keys into the room. A locker is provided to hold personal items. I think the LIFA charter is definitely worth earning and is a lower cost alternative to CFA. True, it is not as recognized as CFA but that is changing. CFA started the same way.