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Education
Certification Coursework Requirement
As part of earning your CFP® certification, you will need to complete college or university-level coursework through a CFP Board Registered Program. If you hold certain credentials or degrees – or have completed similar coursework already – you may qualify for additional options.
Coursework at a CFP Board Registered Program
CFP Board offers a directory of institutions that have registered a financial planning program that satisfies CFP Board's coursework requirement. You can use our Find an Education Program search tool to find the program that's right for you.
Search from more than 300 programs across the country, including those ranging from certificate to doctorate, as well as those offered online for convenient remote attendance. Each program listed includes program information concerning delivery format, location, and contact information.
Choosing the Program That's Right for You
No matter what your learning style or schedule looks like, you can find a registered program that fits your needs.
The Capstone Course
The Capstone course is a comprehensive financial plan development course that is part of the coursework requirement.
What You Will Learn
All CFP Board Registered Programs offer courses covering the 8 Principal Knowledge Topic categories assessed on the CFP® Exam.
Additional Options
In addition to enrolling in a CFP Board Registered Program, these options may also be available to you.
Accelerated Path
The Accelerated Path allows you to bypass much of the coursework requirement for CFP® certification, if you hold one of the qualifying degrees or professional credentials.
Transcript Review
You may have covered some of the required Principal Knowledge Topic areas through previous coursework not taken through a CFP Board Registered Program. If you believe this applies to you, you can submit an application for transcript review.
Coursework from Multiple Registered Programs
If you satisfy the coursework requirement through multiple CFP Board Registered Programs, you must self-report your course completion to CFP Board unless you have formally transferred your credits into one program.
Enrollment
Discounts for Financial Firm Employees
Some financial firms have negotiated discounts with specific registered programs and may offer reimbursement for all or part of the certification process. To see if your employer has negotiated discounts or has a reimbursement policy, please contact your firm directly.