Certification Process

Education

Complete the FP Canada Institute™ Technical Education—Advanced program or an Advanced program recognized by FP Canada.

Next, complete the FP Canada Institute QAFP Certification to CFP Certification Professional Education Program. You must complete this education before writing the CFP exam.

Exam

Pass the six-hour, computer-based exam that has of a combination of stand-alone, multiple-choice (20%-30%), and case-based constructed-response (70%-80%) questions.

The exam specifications are published in the FP Canada Blueprint: CFP Exam. Questions focus on specific elements of the FP Canada Standards Council™ Competency Profile for CFP Certification and integrate several financial planning areas.

Experience

Complete three years of qualifying work experience.

Ethics

Review and agree to comply with the FP Canada Standards Council Standards of Professional Responsibility.

You are now ready to apply for certification

 

A postsecondary degree is a requirement for CFP certification. For more information on exemptions and additional transition provisions, please visit our postsecondary education requirements page.

 

You can find more information in the CFP certification policies.

CFP certification policies
 

Find your path to certification

FP Canada has developed CERTIFICATION PATHFINDER, a new approach to help you find your path to becoming a professional financial planner.

Once you’ve created your FP Canada account, your custom dashboard will guide you to certification, recording your progress as you take your next steps.

Get started