Results of CFP® Certification Examination Highlight Successful Transition to Computer-Based Testing

CFP Board’s move to computer-based testing provides increased opportunities and flexibility to take exam, while maintaining high standards for industry

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. today announced the results of the first-ever computer-based CFP® Certification Examination. Of the more than 2,100 individuals who took the exam in November, 66 percent passed – results that are directly in line with the examination’s previous pass rates, illustrating a successful transition to the computerized testing model. 

“We would like to thank all of those who were part of the first group to take the computer-based CFP® Certification Examination and congratulate those who passed this very rigorous exam,” said CFP Board Chief Executive Officer Kevin R. Keller, CAE. “We hope those who took the exam found the new format was more convenient and provided an enhanced experience, while still effectively evaluating their knowledge of financial planning and helping them prepare to be ethical and competent Certified Financial Planner® professionals.”

Keller also noted that the new exam format allows for increased opportunities for aspiring CFP® professionals to take the exam, while maintaining the high standards of an exam that tests a person’s knowledge of financial planning and how to apply it to real-life situations. 

Highlights of the CFP® Certification Examination from November 2014 include: 

• The number of applicants – 2,147 – was the highest in the past two years;

• The pass rate for examination was 66 percent; slightly higher than the overall pass rate from the past two years, but within the range of results over the past 10 years;

• The majority of candidates had their choice of day for the exam at 265 testing sites around the country;

• Candidates were able to receive preliminary – though unofficial – results immediately following the test; and

• Learnings and results from this first successful test will be incorporated into future computer-based exam administrations.

More information about the computer-based examination, including a list of frequently asked questions can be found here. The next CFP® Certification Examination will be March 24 – 28, 2015.