Learn Accounting:
Online Courses & Resources

How to Learn Accounting with CFI

Courses at CFI are taught 100% online by leading instructors, using proprietary technology to help with learning and retention. Learn at your own pace, combining theory with practice for an in-depth understanding of the topic and its practical applications.

21 courses

Consisting of over 1150+ lessons

90+ interactive exercises

Learn by doing with guided simulations

Expert instructors

Learn from the very best

New courses monthly

On need-to-know subject matter

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500,000+ 5-star ratings

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Find the right accounting course

CFI offers a range of courses to suit new students as well as experienced finance professionals. Expert instructors guide you through the fundamentals of financial accounting, including cash flow statements and balance sheets, to the reading and interpretation of financial statements and creating financial models. Courses can be applied to certification programs to advance your career.

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Learn more with free accounting resources

Explore all of CFI's accounting learning and development resources.

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Why Learn Accounting with CFI?

CFI is a leading provider of online financial analyst certification programs and courses. Each course and program is designed with the aid of professional Wall Street trainers with experience training new hires at global investment banks for decades.

Using a combination of theory, application, and intuition to enhance learning and retention. The self-paced programs are available anytime, anywhere, and leverage proprietary technology, leading instructors, and creative designers.

Over 75% of CFI learners report improved productivity or competency within weeks.

With our accounting courses, you can learn how to:

Explain the format of the income statement and balance sheet
Record financial statement transactions, such as raising equity and buying inventory
Prepare a simple income statement and balance sheet
Read and interpret items on a published balance sheet
Understand balance sheet concepts, such as goodwill and investments
Explain common accounting standards that financial analysts encounter, including accrual basis of accounting, historical cost principle, and conservatism principle

Who should take accounting courses online?

Our accounting courses are designed for anyone who wants to review the fundamentals of the accounting process and progress to financial reporting and analysis, including those looking for careers in investment banking, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), corporate development, and other areas of corporate finance.

Investment professionals

Management consultants

Financial analysts

Registered Provider: National Association of State Boards of Accountancy

All accounting courses are accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), CPA Institutions in Canada, and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) in the US. Most courses qualify for verified CPE credits for CPA charter holders.

Courses include video lessons, quizzes, and final assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you haven’t found your answer from our FAQ, please send us a message.
What is accounting?

Accounting is the process of recording, organizing, and interpreting a company’s financial information to support better decision-making. It forms the foundation of business operations, enabling organizations to track performance, manage budgets, and achieve financial goals. Understanding accounting is essential for anyone working in finance, analysis, or business strategy.

What does an accountant do?

An accountant manages financial records, prepares financial statements, maintains compliance with accounting standards, and provides accurate financial data to support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic decision-making.  Accountants ensure that a company’s financial story is properly recorded, documented, and communicated to its management, investors, regulators, and tax authorities.

How long does it take to learn accounting online?

Learning accounting online can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on your prior experience and the depth of study you choose. Beginners can quickly grasp essential concepts, such as financial statements, debits and credits, and reporting principles, while more advanced analysis or certification programs require additional time. Flexible online courses make it easy to study at your own pace and immediately apply what you learn to real-world work.

CFI’s programs follow this structure, allowing learners to progress smoothly and build lasting accounting skills.

How does accounting training support career growth?

Accounting training builds technical and analytical skills that are essential for advancement in finance, banking, and corporate roles. With a solid accounting foundation, professionals can pursue opportunities in areas like financial analysis, FP&A, auditing, or investment banking. 

Earning a CFI certification signals to employers that you’re job-ready and committed to professional growth.

Can beginners start with CFI’s accounting courses?

Yes, CFI’s accounting courses are accessible for beginners while offering depth for experienced professionals. Learners start with fundamental accounting concepts before progressing to advanced topics like detailed financial statement analysis for banks and insurance companies, business combinations, and equity investments. The courses combine video lessons, practical exercises, and case studies to build real-world confidence from day one.

What skills do you learn in accounting training with CFI?

CFI’s accounting training develops key skills in common accounting concepts, financial reporting, and analysis. You’ll learn how to read and interpret financial statements, and adjust them for differences in accounting, making it easier to compare the financial performance of different companies. 

 The program emphasizes practical application, ensuring you gain desk-ready expertise that translates directly to your career. Our accounting training also prepares learners for courses in financial analysis, modeling, valuation, or FP&A.

Is an accounting certification worth it?

Yes, an accounting certification can be a powerful way to validate your technical skills and stand out in a competitive job market. It demonstrates your ability to interpret financial statements and understand the numbers behind them. decisions. Employers value certified professionals for their precision and reliability in managing financial information. 

CFI’s Accounting for Financial Analysts Specialization helps learners strengthen these skills through applied, career-focused training recognized across industries. 

If you haven’t found your answer from our FAQ, please send us a message.
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