CFP Board Initial Application for the Registration of a
Financial Planning Curriculum
(Revised January 2015)
Date of Receipt
For Internal Use Only
Completion Date
Confirmation
Included Materials:

Criteria for the Registration of a Financial Planning Curriculum with CFP Board

Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board Principal Topics

CFP Board Initial Application for the Registration of a Financial Planning Curriculum
Please review all materials included in this document before completing the application.
1
Registration Criteria for CFP Board Registered Programs
(Updated January 2012)
The following section contains the financial planning program registration criteria and guidelines.
They are designed to be used in encouraging the evaluation of existing programs and to assist in
establishing new programs. The intent is to identify issues of special interest to financial planning
education and to establish minimum requirements in the form of registration criteria and guidelines.
The guidelines are general indications of the nature and range of issues that should be considered
in evaluating an educational program. They provide additional interpretation as to the intent of the
registration criteria.
The registration criteria enumerate standards that the financial planning program must meet to
become a CFP Board-Registered Program. The criteria represent program expectations; those
items that are REQUIRED are presented in this section in ALL UPPERCASE LETTERS.
A. General Criteria
A.1 Institutional Accreditation
Applications will be accepted from four-year degree-granting institutions and
graduate degree-granting institutions currently accredited by a regional accredited
agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Applications from institutions accredited by a national institutional or specialized
accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education shall be
considered on a case-by-case basis. Such institutions must offer four-year degrees
and/or graduate degrees, preferably in disciplines related to personal financial
planning and must demonstrate compliance with other criteria to the satisfaction of
the Director of Education.
Certificate program applications from regionally-accredited institutions that offer
two-year degrees shall be considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to proof
acceptable to the Director of Education that the institution may offer non-degree
programs at the upper division baccalaureate level of higher.
A.2 Degree/Certificate Title
The title for educational programs should contain the words “financial planning.” For
degree programs, the key words should be found in majors, concentrations,
2
specializations, or other forms of emphasis. THE WORD OR LETTER MARKS
OWNED BY CFP BOARD, NAMELY, CFP® AND CERTIFIED FINANCIAL
PLANNER™, MAY BE USED IN THE PROGRAM TITLE ONLY WITHIN
REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED BY CFP BOARD AND ONLY AFTER
REGISTRATION WITH CFP BOARD IS APPROVED. CFP BOARD’S MARK
LOGOS (PLAQUE DESIGN AND FLAME DESIGN) MAY NOT BE USED IN THE
PRGORAM TITLE. CFP Board does NOT require use of its marks in the program
title.
A.2.1 The following three requirements must be met for approval to use
CFP Board’s word or letter marks in the title of a CFP BoardRegistered Program:
a.
The program title is represented as one of the following (or a variant
that has “CFP® Certification or “CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™”
as core words):
i.
CFP® Certification Education Program
ii.
CFP® Certification Professional Education Program
iii.
CFP® Certification Financial Planning Education Program
iv.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Certification Education
Program
v.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Certification Professional
Education Program
vi.
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Certification Financial
Planning Education Program.
b.
The word “certificate” is never used in the program title along with
“CFP® Certification.”
c.
The following disclaimer is clearly associated with the program title on
all educational certificates provided by CFP Board-Registered
Program (in legible font size proportional to the text being used):
This certificate indicates completion of the educational coursework
component of CFP Board’s CFP® certification program. To be
authorized to use the CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™,
and
certification marks, individuals must complete additional
examination, experience, ethics and other requirements. The
prohibition against using marks owned by CFP Board in the title of the
program except as specifically provided is to help ensure proper use
of those marks and to avoid confusion as to the source of the courses.
3
A.2.3 This criterion about program title is intended to ensure that the
educational institution has a substantial commitment to personal
financial planning, not merely an interest that is peripheral to a related
discipline. It also encourages institutions to use nomenclature that is
an accurate indicator of the program’s emphasis. The
degree/certification title identifies the program as being in financial
planning. This is also useful to prospective students and employers of
the graduates.
In a program where a financial planning major is actually a
supplement to a related field, or a general degree, or an option
leading to a degree in a related field, it may not qualify for CFP Board
registration. To be registered the program must clearly have a
substantial and primary focus in financial planning. The official
degree/certificate title should reflect this by containing the words
“financial planning.”
A.3 Length of Program
A.3.1 Undergraduate Degree Programs
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAMS SHALL BE AT LEAST
FOUR YEARS IN DURATION, WITH AT LEAST 18 SEMESTER
CREDITS (3 OF WHICH CONSIST OF THE FINANCIAL PLAN
DEVELOPMENT COURSE) AT THE UPPER DIVISION IN THE
FINANCIAL PLANNING CORE TOPICS
Since the nature of financial planning is interdisciplinary, it is expected
that institutions will use their resources in various ways to create
financial planning programs. Educational institutions involved at this
time at the undergraduate level have developed programs through
schools of business, finance, accountancy, or consumer sciences.
The four-year length represents four academic years of full-time study,
or the equivalent, as customarily required for a bachelor degree. A list
of the financial planning core topics (i.e., the topic list determined by
CFP Board’s job analysis study) is included in the application form.
Courses covering the topics on that list are expected to be upper
division level courses.
Although 18 semester credit hours covering CFP Board topics is the
minimum length requirement, universities are encouraged to exceed
4
this. For example, a 21 credit hour curriculum could include seven
three-credit courses with titles such as: Financial Planning Process
and Fundamentals, Insurance Planning and Employee Benefits,
Investment Planning, Income Taxation for Individuals and Businesses,
Retirement Planning, Estate Planning and Taxation, and Case
Studies in Personal Financial Planning. See the section related to
curriculum for further guidance.
A.3.2 Master’s Degree Program
MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS SHALL HAVE AT LEAST 18 SEMESTER
CREDITS (3 OF WHICH CONSIST OF THE FINANCIAL PLAN DEVELOPMENT
COURSE) IN THE FINANCIAL PLANNING CORE TOPICS.
The length represents two academic years of full-time study, or the equivalent, as
customarily required of a master's degree. A list of the financial planning core topics
(i.e., the financial planning topic list determined by CFP Board’s job analysis study)
is included in the application form.
A.3.3
Doctoral Degree Programs
DOCTORAL DEGREE PROGRAMS WILL VARY IN DURATION, BUT SHALL
REQUIRE COURSE WORK IN FINANCIAL PLANNING SUBSTANTIALLY
BEYOND THAT REQUIRED FOR A MASTER’S DEGREE PLUS AN
INDEPENDENT DISSERTATION OR RESEARCH PROJECT.
A.3.4
Certificate Programs
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS SHALL HAVE AT LEAST 18 UPPER-DIVISION
SEMESTER CREDITS (3 OF WHICH CONSIST OF THE FINANCIAL PLAN
DEVELOPMENT COURSE), OR 270 CONTACT HOURS, IN THE FINANCIAL
PLANNING CORE TOPICS.
Many educational institutions have developed post-graduate certificate programs
that focus on the required financial planning core topics (i.e., the financial planning
topic list determined by CFP Board’s job analysis study). Program length
requirements, level requirements, and so on for certificate programs are the same
as for degree programs, whether the certificate program is offered for academic
credit or is a not-for-credit program. Those institutions interested should carefully
®
review the detailed financial planning topic list found in CFP Board’s Guide to CFP
Certification and posted on CFP Board’s Web site, www.CFP.net.
In determining semester credit hour equivalency for a not-for-credit program, CFP
Board considers that, traditionally, one contact hour per week plus two hours or
more of preparation per contact hour, over a 15-week semester, is worth one
semester credit hour.
CFP Board accepts course credit hour recommendations (number of hours and
5
level) made by the American Council on Education (ACE). CFP Board does not
require that certificate program courses be reviewed by ACE, but encourages notfor-credit certificate programs to consider an ACE evaluation.
B. Degree/Certificate Objectives
B.1 Statement of Objectives
B.1.1 A STATEMENT OF OBJECTIVES SHALL BE DEVELOPED FOR EACH
FINANCIAL PLANNING DEGREE OR CERTIFICATE PROGRAM.
The statement should be realistic and explicit, reflecting the program’s abilities,
aspirations, and its response to the needs of students and society. The objectives
should represent a variety of commitments for the financial planning program. They
become a key set of self-imposed criteria for degree or certificate program
evaluation, and should involve a conscious effort to reflect the goals of the
institution, program, faculty, students, and financial planning profession.
CFP Board will use the statement of objectives as a basic point of reference in
evaluating applications for registration. In addition to considering specific criteria set
forth below, CFP Board will expect the resources of the institution and the program
to be adequate to support the stated objectives. It is anticipated that the content of
the program objectives will change from time to time. CFP Board will not impose any
preconceived norm or model. However, program objectives should respond to public
needs and be compatible with CFP Board purposes.
B.1.2
A DESCRIPTION OF THE METHODS USED TO FORMULATE OBJECTIVES
SHALL BE PROVIDED.
This statement should include a description of the process, and indicate who was
involved in goal development (i.e., administration, faculty, students, community,
CFP® certificants, other professionals in the field of financial planning, etc.). In
addition, comment should be provided on the extent of involvement for each
participant category.
C. Curriculum
C.1 Course Content
AT A MINIMUM, THE CURRICULUM SHALL CONTAIN COURSES THAT ENABLE THE STUDENT
TO ACQUIRE AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE TOPICS FOUND IN CFP BOARD’S FINANCIAL
PLANNING TOPIC LIST.
The purpose of the topic list is to guide educational institutions to develop degree and certificate
programs in financial planning that deal with the skills and knowledge deemed important to the tasks
involved in comprehensive financial planning. The required topic coverage and the recommended
optional courses described herein were formulated based on CFP Board’s job analysis study of the
practice of financial planning. The periodic updates of the job analysis study practice will result in
modifications to the curriculum guidelines from time to time, approximately every five years. Topic
coverage adequacy will be determined by CFP Board’s review of detailed course syllabi, textbooks,
student evaluation methods, faculty credentials, and other relevant materials. Throughout the
6
registration period, course materials should be kept up-to-date and reflect current law and practice.
C.2 STUDENT CENTERED LEARNING OBJECTIVES BASED UPON CFP BOARD PRINCIPAL TOPICS
(2011)
CFP Board has released a new resource regarding student-centered learning outcomes relative to
CFP Board principal topics. This new Learning Objectives resource document was created by CFP
Board-Registered Program Faculty to be an effective guide in the development of course learning
objectives, learning experiences and program development. CFP Board-Registered Program
directors and faculty are welcome to use the guide in their classroom or learning platforms, and we
encourage Registered Programs to share and discuss this document with colleagues and are
encouraged to share and discuss this document with colleagues.
C.3 FINANCIAL PLAN DEVELOPMENT (CAPSTONE) COURSE
The purpose of the Financial Plan Development Course is to require the financial
planning student to demonstrate the ability to integrate and apply his or her
knowledge of financial planning topics, as received through the curricula taught by
CFP Board-Registered Programs. The Board’s adoption of this new course
requirement is recognition of the increasing importance for the educational
requirements for CFP® certification to prepare students not only with technical
financial planning knowledge, but also the skills to integrate, apply and
communicate this knowledge to their clients. Through this new course requirement,
future CFP® professionals will have proven their ability to apply the financial
planning process to real-life situations, as well as their ability to communicate their
planning recommendations to a client. The requirement will not only become part
of the standards for CFP Board-Registered Programs, but will be considered part of
the educational requirement for CFP® certification.
THE FINANCIAL PLAN DEVELOPMENT (CAPSTONE) COURSE MUST CONTAIN
A MINIMUM OF 45 CONTACT HOURS OR 3 SEMESTER HOURS.
The Financial Plan Development Course is competency-based, which means that
instruction and experiences consist of a body of related skills and knowledge that
affect a significant portion of one’s performance in a given profession. Through the
use of competency-based learning objectives, learner achievement can be
quantified against universally accepted performance standards. This form of learner
assessment provides a detailed summary of learner effectiveness relative to the
role of the personal financial planner, while also informing subsequent education
and experiences relative to this course.
7
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the content found within the
Financial Planning curriculum and effectively apply and integrate this
information in the formulation of a financial plan.
2. Effectively communicate the financial plan, both orally and in writing,
including information based on research, peer, colleague or simulated client
interaction and/or results emanating from synthesis of material.
3. Collect all necessary and relevant qualitative and quantitative information
required to develop a financial plan.
4. Analyze personal financial situations, evaluating clients’ objectives, needs,
and values to develop an appropriate strategy within the financial plan.
5. Demonstrate logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of
various approaches to a specific problem.
6. Evaluate the impact of economic, political, and regulatory issues with regard
to the financial plan.
7. Apply the CFP Board Financial Planning Practice Standards to the financial
planning process.
Learning Experiences
In developing curriculum and instruction relative to the Financial Plan Development
Course, Registered Programs have the flexibility to utilize a variety of educational
experiences in order to meet the specified learning objectives required by CFP
Board. These experiences within this capstone course may include, but are not
limited to, case studies, practicum experiences, presentation formats, software, and
internships. The rationale for devising criteria focused exclusively upon learning
objectives is to give Registered Programs the opportunity to use their own creativity
in devising learning experiences that they believe are best suited for their students,
while still meeting the CFP Board required learner achievement benchmarks
relative to the financial plan development course.
C.4 Academic Level
AT A MINIMUM, THESE COURSES MUST BE TAUGHT AT AN UPPER DIVISION BACCALAUREATE
LEVEL.
8
For degree courses from a regionally accredited institution, the course level assigned by the
institution will be accepted. For all not-for-credit certificate programs and other applicants,
CFP Board’s review of detailed course syllabi, textbooks, student evaluation methods,
faculty credentials, and other relevant materials and factors will determine course level
adequacy. Course credit recommendations (course level and credit hours) of the American
Council on Education (ACE) will be accepted. Although CFP Board does not require that
such courses be reviewed by ACE, it encourages not-for-credit programs to consider
evaluation by ACE.
C.5 Recommended General Education and Elective Courses
In addition to the core curriculum, institutions are encouraged to include the following courses:
communication skills, mathematics, ethics, humanities, and social sciences. Upper-division courses that
explore counseling issues and skills (such as values clarification, goal-setting, modifying financial behavior),
attitudes towards money (fears, risk tolerance), consumer investment and savings decisions, family and
human relationships, statistics and decision-making sciences are encouraged. Courses in basic psychology
and sociology should be taken as a part of the general education requirement.
C.6 Recommended Financial Planning Prerequisites
Certificate programs, undergraduate, and master’s programs should consider the following list of courses as
prerequisites or graduation requirements:
 Financial accounting
 Macro- and micro-economics
 Quantitative analysis
 Finance
 Business law
 Business ethics
 Computer science: financial applications
 Counseling skills
C.7 Courses in Program, Textbooks, Grading, Faculty Assigned to Courses
A LIST, DESCRIPTION, AND DETAILED SYLLABUS (COURSE OUTLINE) OF ALL FINANCIAL
PLANNING PROGRAM COURSES SHALL BE PROVIDED IN THE APPLICATION. TEXTBOOKS MUST
BE IDENTIFIED FOR EACH COURSE. METHODS OF GRADING STUDENT MASTERY MUST BE
IDENTIFIED. FACULTY RESPONSIBLE FOR TEACHING EACH COURSE MUST BE IDENTIFIED.
Generally, courses will be those taught by the financial planning faculty and
available to financial planning students, or serve as electives to students in
related disciplines. Typical course names may include:




Fundamentals of Financial Planning; Survey of Personal Financial
Planning
Insurance Planning and Risk Management
Investment Planning
Securities Analysis and Asset Allocation
9






Personal Income Tax Planning; Taxation of Individuals and Businesses
Retirement Planning
Employee Benefits Planning
Estate Planning and Taxation
Financial Plan Development (Capstone) Course
Financial Planning Internship
Universities are expected to require use of standard textbooks in each major category on
CFP Board’s topic list. “Exam prep” or Review Course materials are not substitutes for
textbooks that provide theoretical and practical approaches to the topics.
C.8 Learning Experiences
Learning experiences outside the classroom are of particular importance in planning. They provide exposure
to independent problem solving, research, and financial planning in a real work context. Educators are
encouraged to include internships, case practice, cooperative experiences, special projects, team projects,
and the like into the program.
Each course focused on CFP Board’s financial planning topic list should include case
studies in personal financial planning situations appropriate to the course subject matter to
develop the student’s ability to use critical-thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making
skills in the context of personal financial planning process.
C.9 Synthesizing Elements of Comprehensive Financial Planning
At least one course in the program should attempt to synthesize basic elements of comprehensive financial
planning. This should provide knowledge of how the planning process is made operative in a variety of
contexts. A collection of courses is not necessarily adequate to accomplish this goal. The sequence of
courses and the kinds of real world problems used for teaching purposes are important influencing factors.
D. Faculty
D.1 Faculty Quality
THE QUALIFICATIONS OF THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR TEACHING EACH COURSE
AND OTHER COMPONENTS OF A CFP BOARD-REGISTERED PROGRAM SHALL BE
APPROPRIATE TO THEIR PARTICULAR RESPONSIBILITIES AND ROLES WITHIN THAT
PROGRAM, PARTICULARLY AT THE UPPER DIVISION BACCALAUREATE AND
GRADUATE LEVEL.
A CURRICULUM VITA FOR EACH FACULTY MEMBER SHALL BE PROVIDED
REFLECTING HIS OR HER QUALIFICATIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES. If certain faculty
positions are open at the time the application or renewal application is submitted to CFP
Board, the application shall state the standards to be used by the institution in selecting
faculty to teach in the program. The application also shall affirm that current curriculum vitae
will be sent to CFP Board as additional faculty members are hired.
While faculty numbers may be adequate, individuals may be ill equipped or inappropriately
qualified for their respective teaching responsibilities. On the other hand, individuals with
appropriate backgrounds should teach courses. For example, someone with graduate
10
training in economics or with comparable research or consulting experience should teach a
course in economic analysis. Because of course level requirements, all faculty members
should have appropriate graduate degrees. In lieu of having an appropriate graduate
degree, faculty may hold a current CFP® certification plus a bachelor’s degree in a related
field, or a current CFP® certification, a bachelor’s degree, and significant experience related
to the course content. Faculty members who are authorized to use the CFP ® marks are
encouraged to do so. In rare instances where a faculty member in a certificate program does
not have an appropriate graduate degree or a current CFP® certification and a bachelor’s
degree, an academic officer of the institution shall provide a letter stating that the individual
is considered qualified by that institution to teach the course at the upper division
baccalaureate level (or higher). In no event will a faculty member be deemed appropriate
who does not have at least a bachelor’s degree.
D.2 Accessibility to Students
Institutions are encouraged to make the faculty highly accessible to students, both in and out
of the classroom.
D.3 Research and Professional Involvement
D.3.1
The involvement of faculty in research related to personal financial planning is
encouraged. Academic research can make an important contribution to the
evolution of the profession and its ability to serve society. It also provides
opportunities for intellectual enrichment to participating faculty and students.
D.3.2
The involvement of faculty in academic and professional organizations related to
personal financial planning is encouraged. Examples of such organizations are
the Academy of Financial Services (AFS) and the Financial Planning Association
(FPA). Involvement in related academic and professional organizations can
provide faculty with opportunities to enhance their teaching techniques and can
help faculty ensure that approaches and hypothetical cases used in the
classroom are appropriate to the practice personal financial planning by
individuals with the CFP® certification.
D.4 Program Head (Program Director)-Professional Qualifications
THE HEAD OF THE FINANCIAL PLANNING PROGRAM WHO IS DESIGNATED AS THE
PROGRAM DIRECTOR MUST HAVE ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING
QUALIFICATIONS:
 BE A CFP® CERTIFICANT OR BE ABLE TO QUALIFY TO SIT FOR CFP
BOARD’S CFP® CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION (i.e., he or she must hold a
designation, license, or degree that would qualify under CFP Board’s “Challenge
Status” to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination)
 HAVE GRADUATE EDUCATION IN FINANCIAL PLANNING OR A RELATED
DISCIPLINE FROM A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY CURRENTLY ACCREDITED
BY ONE OF THE SIX REGIONAL ACCREDITATION AGENCIES; or
 FOR A NON-DEGREE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM, HAVE A GRADUATE DEGREE
RELATED TO EDUCATION, ADULT EDUCATION, OR BE THE HEAD OF THE
CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT OF THE COLLEGE
OR UNIVERSITY.
11
Just as faculty are encouraged to participate in academic and professional organizations
related to personal financial planning, Program Directors are strongly encouraged to
participate in such academic and professional groups. In addition to the rationale for faculty
participation, such participation by a Program Director also provides opportunities to meet
individuals who may serve the program in an advisory capacity.
D.5 Registered Program Conference
Program Directors are expected to attend CFP Board’s annual Registered Program
Conference, generally held over the first weekend in August to facilitate attendance by more
than one faculty member. If a Program Contact other than the Program Director is appointed
to handle administrative matters and to be an additional liaison with CFP Board, the
Program Director should also facilitate attendance by the Program Contact. In the event the
Program Director and Program Contact cannot personally attend, a substitute (generally a
faculty member) should attend. Administrative and/or departmental budgets are expected to
include sufficient funds for such attendance.
D.6 Collegiality
Directors, administrators, and faculty of CFP Board-Registered Programs are expected to
develop professional relationships with their peers at other colleges and universities, and to
encourage collegiality with peers at other CFP Board-Registered Programs among faculty
and administrators. From time to time CFP Board may share names of Directors and
Contacts at CFP Board-Registered Programs with faculty and administration at colleges and
universities that are considering registering a financial planning curriculum with CFP Board.
E. Students
E.1 Admission Policy
CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS MUST INCLUDE A COPY OF THE INSTITUTION'S
PUBLISHED STATEMENT OF PROGRAM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
FINANCIAL PLANNING PROGRAM
Careful consideration should be given to the standards for admission and the
composition of the student population in both degree and certificate
programs. High admission standards will tend to foster high academic
performance. They may be paramount in creating a quality program.
Students recruiting and admission policies should be in harmony with the program
objectives and capabilities. Thus, students should be considered for admission, not only on
the basis of prior academic work, but also in light of the compatibility of their personal goals
with the program objectives. Contributions that the student may make to the program and
the profession should also be considered.
Any policy that allows the entry of students who would not meet traditional admission
standards should be undertaken only after careful consideration of special education
12
programs that can be supported along with the regular programs. The absence of such
programs may result in the unfortunate choice between lower academic performance
standards or a high rate of failure.
E.2 Nondiscrimination Policy
ADMISSION AND OTHER PROGRAM STANDARDS SHOULD NOT DISCRIMINATE ON
THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY,
OR ANY OTHER CHARACTERISTIC PROTECTED BY LAW.
E.3 Education Verification
Program is required to upload a completion report for all students who have completed the
required coursework. These records must be uploaded to the CFP Board Online Education
Verification System, www.CFP.net/EdVerification. The program must be current, in order to
upload records. Record uploads will be restricted to Program Directors and Primary
Contacts, who will be given login information upon registration.
CFP Board will randomly audit uploaded eligibility lists to ensure the accuracy of the student
records. If one of your program’s lists is audited, you will need to supply documentation of
the student’s completion of the required courses. CFP Board will contact the Program
Director and/or Primary Contact of Registered Programs whose eligibility lists have been
randomly selected for audit.
F. Other Resources
F.1 Library
A good library is critical to a successful financial planning education program.
The book collection should be substantial, covering not only financial
planning topics, but also closely related disciplines. Academic journals in the
field of personal financial planning, such as Financial Services Review, and
related disciplines should be included in the library collection.
Acquisition budgets and procedures should reflect the dynamic nature of the field. Faculty
input into acquisitions decisions should be solicited.
F.2 Student Organizations
Collegiality among students and faculty advisors, service to the community and school,
opportunities to network with financial planning professionals, leadership opportunities,
teamwork, and enrichment activities can be fostered through an active student organization
for financial planning program students. Accordingly, CFP Board encourages formation and
fostering of student financial planning organizations, with participation and affiliation with
national financial planning organizations, such as Financial Planning Association (FPA) or
other membership organizations, as appropriate.
F.3 Continuing Education Programs
Well-established financial planning programs can offer continuing education courses to meet
the needs of professionals. These matters are sufficiently important to merit the same
13
competence and prestige associated with degree related instruction. Institutions offering
continuing education in subjects covered by CFP Board’s topic list are encouraged to
contact CFP Board to become a listed continuing education sponsor.
F.4 Alumni
Schools should maintain contact with their graduates. The ability of graduates to occupy positions of
responsibility in professional practice is an important indicator of an adequate program. In addition,
graduates often can make very helpful suggestions for improving the educational program, and assist with
job placement.
14
CFP Board Registered Program Initial Application
Section I: Program Profile
Name of Institution
Program Title
Web Site URL
Mailing Address
Campus Box or
Mail Code (if
applicable)
City
State/Province/Region
Zip Code
Telephone Number
(including international dialing
code)
Fax Number
(including international dialing
code)
Program Email Address
15
Section II: Program Contact Information
Primary Contact – Individual listed on public website and granted access to Education Verification
System
Dr.
Mr.
Mrs.
Ms.
Title
Phone
Email
Program Director – Individual who receives all program updates and isgranted access to Education
Verification System
Dr.
Mr.
Mrs.
Ms.
Title
Phone
Email
Dean/Chief Academic Officer
Dr.
Mr.
Mrs.
Ms.
Title
Phone
Email
16
Enter any additional contacts into the table below. These individuals will receive general correspondence
relating to CFP Board Registered Programs. Submitting individuals as additional contacts is optional.
Name
Email
Faculty or Career Center
Section III: Program Description
Program Type
Program Level
College
Credit
Certificate
Upper Division Baccalaureate
Baccalaureate
Graduate
Yes
Graduate
No
Ph.D.
Regional Accreditation Agency
AACSB Accreditation
Number of Courses
Average Length of Courses
Delivery Method
Classroom
Web-Delivered
Self-Paced
Average Program Completion
Time
Method for Determining Average Completion Time
17
Section IV: Program Details / Self Evaluation
Please address the items listed below in a separate document. The application will not be
considered complete unless accompanied by answers to each question below.
1. Explain How Minimum Length and Academic Requirements are Met: Describe and justify how the
curriculum meets or exceeds the minimum length (18 semester credits or its equivalent, 270 contact hours) and
cognitive level requirements in CFP Board’s registration criteria. Programs are encouraged to review the
definition for contact hours found at www.CFP.net/registeredprograms.
2. Provide a Statement of Objectives for your program.
3. Describe the methodology used to develop the Statement of Objectives.
4. What are the entry requirements for your prospective CFP Board Registered Program?
5. Will you be using Student-Centered Learning Objectives in your program? If so, how?
6. Will the institution be encouraging students to create a CFP Board Account? If so, how?
18
Section V: Course Listing
List those courses to be taken by financial planning students that will give them proficiency in the
subject areas outlined in the Criteria for Registration. Use additional pages if necessary.



FACULTY/ACADEMIC STAFF (D.1.1)* - Attach a current CV for each faculty
member. Please provide the following summary information with respect to all faculty
engaged in the teaching of the financial planning courses. If any faculty members for the
courses in this program are to be hired later, provide a statement of the hiring criteria
and affirm that a current CV will be provided for each faculty member hired to teach
courses in this program following the date of this application. Use additional pages if
necessary.
TEXTBOOKS (C.7)* - List all required textbooks used in each course. Required and
supplemental textbooks also should be listed on each detailed course syllabus and
should correspond with this list. If a different textbook has been selected for a course
than is shown on the syllabus, explain the discrepancy. If there are multiple sessions of
the same course that use different texts, provide an explanation to facilitate review of the
materials. Review course materials are not sufficient to substitute for standard
textbooks, although review course materials may be used as supplements to standard
textbooks and other materials. If faculty-designed compilations of materials are used to
cover a significant number of topics in a course, provide a copy of the table of contents in
the application package. CFP Board may request copies of textbooks to facilitate its
curriculum review, but do not need to be included in the application package. Use
additional pages if necessary.
FINANCIAL PLAN DEVELOPMENT (CAPSTONE) COURSE (C.3)* - In addition to the
syllabus for the capstone course, please include a detailed grading rubric that assesses
for the seven learning objectives. All of the criteria, along with sample rubrics, and
webinars outlining the requirements for the course application can be found on the
following website: www.CFP.net/resources-for-registered-programs/capstone-course.
19
Submitted
Course Number
Syllabi
Course Title
Credit
Hours/
Contact
Hours
Optional
(Y/N)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
20
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
21
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
22
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
23
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
24
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
25
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
26
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
27
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
28
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
29
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
30
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
31
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
32
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
33
Course Title
Broad Subject(s) Covered
Textbook Title
Author
Edition/Year
Instructor Name
Email address
Academic Rank
Degrees Held
Professional Designations/Licenses/ Certifications Held
Professional Practice Experience
Explain if this course incorporates the Student-Centered Learning Objectives based upon CFP Board
Principal Topics document.
34
Section VI: 72 Topic List
The following list contains the required 72 topics for all CFP Board Registered Programs. If
topics are covered in multiple courses, programs are encouraged to list each course.
EFFECTIVE 2015
CFP BOARD’S FINANCIAL PLANNING TOPIC LIST (72-TOPICS)
AT A MINIMUM, THE CURRICULUM SHALL CONTAIN COURSES THAT ENABLE THE
STUDENT TO ACQUIRE AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE TOPICS FOUND IN CFP BOARD’S
FINANCIAL PLANNING TOPIC LIST.
“The purpose of the topic list is to guide educational institutions to develop degree and certificate programs
in financial planning that deal with the skills and knowledge deemed important to the tasks involved in
comprehensive financial planning. The required topic coverage and the recommended optional courses
described herein were formulated based on CFP Board’s job analysis study of the practice of financial
planning. The periodic updates of the job analysis study practice will result in modifications to the curriculum
guidelines from time to time, approximately every five years. Topic coverage adequacy will be determined by
CFP Board’s review of detailed course syllabi, textbooks, student evaluation methods, faculty credentials,
and other relevant materials. Throughout the registration period, course materials should be kept up-to-date
and reflect current law and practice (Criteria for Registration of a Financial Planning Curriculum with CFP
Board, January, 2012).”
A.
Professional Conduct and Regulation
Course
Number
A.1 CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility and
Rules of Conduct
A.2 CFP Board’s Financial Planning Practice Standards
A.3 CFP Board’s Disciplinary Rules and Procedures
A.4 Function, purpose, and regulation of financial institutions
A.5 Financial services regulations and requirements
A.6 Consumer protection laws
A.7 Fiduciary
B.
General Principles and Regulation
Course
Number
B.1 Financial planning process
B.2 Financial statements
35
B.3 Cash flow management
B.4 Financing strategies
B.5 Economic concepts
B.6 Time value of money concepts and calculations
B.7 Client and planner attitudes, values, biases and behavioral
finance
B.8 Principles of communication and counseling
B.9 Debt management
C.
Education Planning
Course
Number
C.1 Education needs analysis
C.2 Education savings vehicles
C.3 Financial aid
C.4 Gift/income tax strategies
C.5 Education financing
D.
Risk Management and Insurance Planning
Course
Number
D.1 Principles of risk and insurance
D.2 Analysis and evaluation of risk exposures
D.3 Health insurance and health care cost management (individual)
D.4 Disability income insurance (individual)
D.5 Long‐term care insurance (individual)
D.6 Annuities
D.7 Life insurance (individual)
D.8 Business uses of insurance
D.9 Insurance needs analysis
36
D.10 Insurance policy and company selection
D.11 Property and casualty insurance
E.
Investment Planning
Course
Number
E.1 Characteristics, uses and taxation of investment vehicles
E.2 Types of investment risk
E.3 Quantitative investment concepts
E.4 Measures of investment returns
E.5 Asset allocation and portfolio diversification
E.6 Bond and stock valuation concepts
E.7 Portfolio development and analysis
E.8 Investment strategies
E.9 Alternative investments
F.
Tax Planning
Course
Number
F.1 Fundamental tax law
F.2 Income tax fundamentals and calculations
F.3 Characteristics and income taxation of business entities
F.4 Income taxation of trusts and estates
F.5 Alternative minimum tax (AMT)
F.6 Tax reduction/management techniques
F.7 Tax consequences of property transactions
F.8 Passive activity and at-risk rules
F.9 Tax implications of special circumstances
F.10 Charitable/philanthropic contributions and deductions
37
G.
Retirement Savings and Income Planning
Course
Number
G.1 Retirement needs analysis
G.2 Social Security and Medicare
G.3 Medicaid
G.4 Types of retirement plans
G.5 Qualified plan rules and options
G.6 Other tax-advantaged retirement plans
G.7 Regulatory considerations
G.8 Key factors affecting plan selection for businesses
G.9 Distribution rules and taxation
G.10 Retirement income and distribution strategies
G.11 Business succession planning
H.
Estate Planning
Course
Number
H.1 Characteristics and consequences of property titling
H.2 Strategies to transfer property
H.3 Estate planning documents
H.4 Gift and estate tax compliance and tax calculation
H.5 Sources for estate liquidity
H.6 Types, features, and taxation of trusts
H.7 Marital deduction
H.8 Intra-family and other business transfer techniques
H.9 Postmortem estate planning techniques
H.10 Estate planning for non-traditional relationships
38
39
Section VII: Registration Agreement
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF REGISTRATION FOR CFP BOARD-REGISTERED
PROGRAMS
It is understood and agreed that:
1. Authorization. This Registration Terms and Conditions Agreement (“Agreement”) is between the
Registered Program and Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards., Inc., a Colorado nonprofit
corporation (“CFP Board”). Upon acceptance of the Initial Registration or Registration Renewal
Application (“Application”) by CFP Board and subject to these Terms and Conditions of Registration
(“terms”), CFP Board grants a limited, non-transferable, non-sublicensable, royalty-free, nonexclusive, revocable license to use the CFP® Marks (as defined below) solely in connection with the
promotion of and the conduct of educational services in the United States. No other rights are
granted except those explicitly granted herein.
2. Term. Upon satisfactory completion of program application materials for CFP Board review, the
registration period will be for a period of twenty-four (24) months and must be renewed biennially.
This Terms and Conditions agreement shall remain in effect for a period of three (3) years from the
date of signature. Registration may be revoked by CFP Board for failure to adhere to the Criteria
for Registration of a Financial Planning Curriculum with CFP Board, as revised from time to time,
or any other designated policies and procedures of CFP Board. Any changes made to the program
as described in the Application must be approved by CFP Board. Substantial changes, including
but not limited to changes in location or methods of delivery, may constitute a separate program
and as such may require additional registration. This registration does not extend to partners,
affiliates or other departments of the institution providing the registered program. Any program
created or developed in conjunction with a third party curriculum provider or in partnership with
another institution(s) is considered a new program and must be submitted for additional registration.
3. Term of Use. Permission to use the CFP® Marks, defined here as solely CFP®, CERTIFIED
FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® applies only for the registration
period, as defined by CFP Board. At the end of such registration period, if the registration is not
renewed, the registration expires; all rights to use the CFP® Marks terminate. CFP Board may
terminate any rights the Registered Program has in the use of the CFP® Marks if the Registered
Program fails to maintain current registration status or if the Registered Program violates any
requirement for registration.
4. Restrictions on Use. Without limiting the other terms and restrictions set forth in these Terms,
unless otherwise approved by CFP Board in writing, the Registered Program and its authorized
agents (directors or staff) will not, directly or indirectly, (i) use the CFP® Marks in conjunction with
the promotion and/or provision of any services, or in any other way, outside the United States unless
40
cross-border requirements have been met, (ii) use the CFP® Marks in conjunction with the sale or
distribution of any tangible goods, (iii) certify individuals to use the CFP® Marks, (iv) use the CFP®
Marks in a manner that implies another individual or company is qualified or permitted to use the
CFP® Marks, or (v) use the CFP® Marks in violation of CFP Board’s policies and procedures, which
are incorporated herein by reference.
The CFP® Marks may only be used by representatives of the Registered Program to describe,
advertise or promote the Registered Program. The CFP® Marks may not be used by authorized
agents of the Registered Program for any other purposes.
5. Quality Control. The nature and content of all advertising, promotional or other uses of the CFP®
Marks, and educational services associated therewith, will conform to the requirements and policies
specified by CFP Board (as modified from time to time) and must be approved by CFP Board. CFP
Board has the absolute right to monitor the manner in which the CFP® Marks are used and the
quality of educational services associated therewith. CFP Board retains, at all times, the right to
withdraw its approval of the use of the CFP® Marks if the quality, content, accuracy, or other
characteristics of any of the educational services associated therewith ceases to be acceptable or
otherwise is not in accordance with certain requirements and policies defined by CFP Board.
6. Protection of the CFP® Marks. CFP Board shall have the sole right to file applications to register,
and to obtain registrations for, the CFP® Marks with any governmental or non-governmental
organization. Registered Programs agree to cooperate fully with CFP Board in filling such
applications and obtaining such registrations, including providing CFP Board with specimens of use
of the CFP® Marks and executing any documents requested by CFP Board, or in protecting,
enforcing and defending the CFP® Marks. A representative of the Registered Program will notify
CFP Board in writing of any infringement, imitations, claims or other problems with respect to the
CFP® Marks which may arise or otherwise come to the attention of the Registered Program. CFP
Board shall have the sole right, but not the obligation, to take any action on account of any such
infringement, imitation, claim or problem. The Registered Program will not institute any suit or take
any other action on account of such infringements, imitations, claims or problems without the prior
express written consent of CFP Board.
7. Ownership; Goodwill. The right to use the marks of CFP Board is limited to those rights to use the
CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® marks and does not
extend to any other marks of CFP Board. Any goodwill attaching to the trademarks of CFP Board
as a result of the Registered Program’s use of the CFP® Marks will inure to the benefit of CFP
Board. The Registered Program will be conducted in a way that does not adversely affect CFP
Board’s reputation or goodwill. The CFP® Marks will only be displayed or used as permitted in these
Terms and the Reference Guide for the CFP® Certification Marks, CFP Board-Registered Program
Version(as updated from time to time). The right to use the CFP® Marks does not grant right, title or
41
interest in or to any trademark, service mark, logo or trade name of CFP Board. The Registered
Program agrees not to: (i) challenge CFP Board as the sole, absolute or exclusive owner of all right,
title and interest and to the CFP® Marks and the goodwill associated therewith, (ii) challenge the
validity, control or use of any mark owned by CFP Board, (iii) register, use, adopt, or promote any
mark that in CFP Board’s estimation is confusingly similar to any mark owned by CFP Board, (iv)
take or encourage any action which would impair the rights of CFP Board in and to the CFP® Marks
or any goodwill associated therewith, or (v) infringe the CFP® Marks or any other marks owned by
CFP Board.
8. Revocation of Right to Use. CFP Board has the absolute and unrestricted right to revoke, at its
sole discretion, any rights the Registered Program has to the CFP® Marks if CFP Board, in its sole
discretion, determines that the Registered Program has misused the CFP® Marks or is otherwise in
violation of any CFP Board policy with respect to the CFP® Marks or the Registered Program’s
activities. It is further understood and agreed that any violation of CFP Board’s policies is likely to
cause irreparable harm, and the Registered Program will immediately stop using the CFP ® Marks
or change the manner in which they are used, whichever CFP Board requests. To the extent
necessary, the Registered Program consents to the entry of injunctive relief to halt any violation of
CFP Board’s policies with respect to the CFP® Marks.
9. Indemnification. Neither CFP Board nor its directors, officers, employees and others acting on its
behalf shall be liable to the Registered Program for any actions taken or omitted in an official
capacity or in the scope of employment, except to the extent that such actions or omissions
constitute willful misconduct or gross negligence, and the Registered Program hereby releases CFP
Board and the persons identified above from any liability for any such actions or omissions. The
Registered Program further covenants and agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless CFP
Board and its directors, officers, employees and agents from and against any and all claims,
demands, judgments, awards and expenses related thereto (including court costs and reasonable
fees of attorneys and other professionals) brought or threatened by any third parties arising out of:
(i) any breach by the Registered Program of its Application or these Terms, (ii) any failure by the
Registered Program or its authorized agents to comply with applicable laws, (iii) the services
provided by the Registered Program, (iv) any unauthorized representation, warranty, agreement or
the like, express or implied, made by the Registered Program or its authorized agents to or with
any third party with respect to any acts or omissions (including statements, representations or
warranties not authorized by CFP Board), or (v) acts or omissions taken by the Registered Program
in connection with the use of the CFP® Marks. Notwithstanding the above, CFP Board expressly
reserves the right to retain separate counsel to participate in the defense or settlement of any such
claims.
10. Limitation of Liability. To the extent not prohibited by law, in no event will CFP Board be liable for
any direct, indirect, special, consequential, incidental or punitive damages, including without
limitation attorney’s fees, loss of business revenue, profits or other economic advantage, however
42
caused, regardless of the theory of liability, arising out of or related to the use or the inability to use
any of the CFP Board’s marks, including without limitation the implementation of the forms of
discipline, even if CFP Board has been advised of the possibility of such damages. In no event will
CFP Board’s liability under this declaration and agreement, whether in contract, tort (including
negligence and defamation) or otherwise, exceed the amount the Registered Program paid in
application fees. Liabilities shall be limited and excluded, even if the remedy fails of its essential
purpose.
11. Miscellaneous.
a. Integration. The Application, these Terms, and the documents incorporated herein by reference
constitute the complete Agreement and supersede all prior or contemporaneous oral or written
representations and warranties. CFP Board reserves the right to make modifications to the binding
Terms of this contract upon notification to the Registered Program. No modification by the
Registered Program to these Terms shall be binding upon CFP Board unless in writing and signed
by CFP Board.
b. Assignment. The Registered Program, directors or staff, will not assign or transfer any rights or
obligations under these Terms. Any assignment or delegation by the Registered Program or its
authorized agents of these Terms or any rights or obligations hereunder shall be null and void. CFP
Board may assign its rights herein, without my prior consent.
c. Relationship. The Registered Program’s relationship with CFP Board is that of a licensee granted
the right to use the CFP® Marks and in no way does the relationship constitute an independent
contractor, partnership, franchise, joint venture, agency or employment relationship.
d. Interpretation. These Terms, which the Registered Program understands are binding upon it in
consideration of CFP Board processing its Application, shall be interpreted in such a manner as to
aid in effectuating the purposes and business of CFP Board. No third party private right of action
shall be permitted against CFP Board for acts or omissions taken by CFP Board in the furtherance
of its purposes and business or in connection with these Terms. Failure of CFP Board to insist on
strict performance of the provisions contained herein does not prevent CFP Board from later
enforcing its rights under these Terms.
e. Enforcement; Survival. If the Registered Program does not stop using the CFP® Marks
immediately upon termination, or otherwise violates the provisions of these Terms, such conduct
will be considered exceptional and the Registered Program will pay any expenses, including, but
not limited to, attorney’s fees, which CFP Board may incur while enforcing this provision. Upon
termination of the right to use the CFP® Marks, obligations under paragraphs 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11
of these Terms will remain in effect.
f.
Choice of Law; Forum. These Terms and any action relating thereto shall be governed by and
construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia and controlling U.S.
federal law. No choice of law rules of any jurisdiction will apply. The Registered Program will not
bring any action arising from or relating to these Terms except in a court of appropriate subject
43
matter jurisdiction in the District of Columbia, and the Registered Program expressly consents to
personal jurisdiction and proper venue by and in such court.
g. Headings; Severability. The headings of sections and paragraphs herein are for convenience of
reference only and are without substantive significance. In the event that any provision of these
Terms shall for any reason be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such validity,
illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision and these Terms shall be interpreted
and construed as if such term or provision, to the extent the same shall have been held to be invalid,
illegal or unenforceable, had never been contained herein.
Chief Academic Officer:
Date:
Name of Institution:
Title:
44
Section VIII: Payment Information
The information contained on this page is confidential. After payment, this page will be removed from
the application and shredded.
All institutions registering a financial planning curriculum with CFP Board will need to provide a $1,250
review fee. CFP Board will accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express (and can also
process payments over the phone at 202-379-2224). All checks should be made payable to CFP
Board and mailed to 1425 K Street NW #800 Washington, DC 20005.
Initial Application Review Fee: $1,250.00


Visa
MasterCard


Check #:

Discover
American Express
Amount:
a. Card Number:_______________________________________________Exp:__________
b. Name on Card:____________________________________________________________
45
Application Checklist
All sections of application are completed
Syllabi for all courses in this prospective CFP Board Registered Program
Curriculum vitae for instructors
All questions in Section IV answered on separate document
Completed 72 Topic List
Initial Application payment
Signed Terms & Conditions agreement
Signature of Program Director
Signature of Chief Academic Officer/Dean
All materials must be submitted before application is labeled complete.
Section IX: Signature
Program Director:
Chief Academic Officer/Dean:
Date:
Date:
Section X: Submission Instructions
You may submit your completed application materials to CFP Board in the following ways:


Email to RegisteredPrograms@CFPBoard.org
Mail to CFP Board, Education Department, 1425 K Street NW #800, Washington, DC 20005
If you have any questions, please email RegisteredPrograms@CFPBoard.org contact CFP Board at 202-3792224
46
Review Results
Name of Institution:
Name of Program:
Denied Registration
Approved, With Hesitation
Approved
Approved, With Commendation
Signature:
Date:
Charles R. Chaffin, Ed.D.
Director of Academic Programs and Initiatives
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards
1425 K Street NW #800
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202-379-2224
RegisteredPrograms@CFPBoard.org
47