CMAs Qualify for Advanced Standing in CPF Program

As designated professional accountants, CMAs qualify for advanced standing in the Certified Financial Planner program. Subject to approval, a CMA in good standing may qualify for an exemption from the Financial Planning Standards Council approved “Core Curriculum” requirement and may apply directly to write Financial Planning Examination Level 1 (FPE1).

Financial Planning Examination Level 1 (FPE1) is a competency-based multiple choice examination of up to four hours duration. Approximately 100 multiple-choice items will appear on the examination. It is based directly on the CFP Professional Competency Profile and the FPE1 Blueprint. FPE1 is designed to assess the competence expected of candidates who have completed a Core Curriculum program only but who may not have financial planning work experience. In passing FPE1, the candidate will be entitled to enter the Registered Candidate program, and will earn FPSC’s endorsement as an FPSC Registered Candidate. Those seeking to write FPE1 are advised to review all requirements for CFP certification to ensure that
they will be able to obtain the credential once all steps are completed. In particular, candidates are advised to review the Work Experience requirements and the attestations required to obtain the licence to use the CFP Marks.

Successful candidates move on to the Financial Planning Examination Level 2 (FPE2) which is a competency-based constructed-response and multiple choice examination of up to six hours duration. It is based directly on the CFP Professional Competency Profile and the FPE2 Blueprint. FPE2 is designed to assess the competence expected of candidates who have completed all program requirements and are ready to attain CFP certification.

More information can be found in the CFP Certification Policies Document.