IFPUG CFPS Certification Extension
International Function Point Users Group (IFPUG)
Certified Function Point Specialist (CFPS)
Certification Extension Program
March 1, 2013
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Table of Contents
1
CFPS Certification Extension Overview
4
2
Activity-Credit Rules
4
2.1
Extension Availability .................................................................................................... 4
2.2
Activity-Credit Criteria ................................................................................................... 5
2.3
Validation and Audit ....................................................................................................... 6
2.4
Options for CFPS Certification Extension ...................................................................... 6
2.4.1
Take the Current CFPS Exam ................................................................................. 6
2.4.2
Major Change to the Counting Practices Manual (CPM) ....................................... 6
2.4.3
Minor change to CPM OR No change to CPM .................................................. 6
Activity-Credit Table ……………………………………………………………………7
3
3.1
Activity-Credit Table ...................................................................................................... 7
3.2
Activity-Credit Table Descriptions ................................................................................. 8
3.2.1
Take one CEA Eligible FP classes.......................................................................... 8
3.2.1.1
Definition – Take one CEA Eligible FP class .................................................... 8
3.2.1.2
Application For Credit – Take one CEA Eligible FP class ................................ 9
3.2.2
Teach a CEA Eligible FP class ............................................................................... 9
3.2.2.1
Definition – Teach a CEA Eligible FP class ..................................................... 10
3.2.2.2
Application For Credit – Teach a CEA Eligible FP class ................................. 10
3.2.3
Author a CEA Eligible FP class ........................................................................... 11
3.2.3.1
Definition – Author a CEA Eligible FP class ................................................... 11
3.2.3.2
Application For Credit – Author a CEA Eligible FP class ............................... 11
3.2.4
Attend an IFPUG Conference that is CEA eligible…………………………….. 12
3.2.4.1 Definition – Attend an IFPUG Conference that is CEA eligible ……………......12
3.2.4.2 Application For Credit – Attend an IFPUG Conference that is CEA eligible…...13
3.2.5
Present and author a CEA eligible presentation ................................................... 13
3.2.5.1
Definition – Present and author a CEA eligible presentation ........................... 13
3.2.5.2
Application For Credit – Present and author a CEA eligible presentation ....... 14
3.2.6
Perform a FP count ............................................................................................... 14
3.2.6.1
Definition – Perform a FP count ....................................................................... 14
3.2.6.2
Application For Credit – Perform a FP count ................................................... 15
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3.2.7
Validate 10 FP counts……………………………………………………………16
3.2.7.1
Definition – Validate 10 FP counts ................................................................. 166
3.2.7.2
Application For Credit – Validate 10 FP counts ............................................... 16
3.2.8
Author two FP white papers or articles................................................................. 17
3.2.8.1
Definition – Author two a FP white papers or articles ..................................... 17
3.2.8.2
Application For Credit – Author two FP white papers or articles .................... 17
3.2.9
Participate on a Counting Standards Committee .................................................. 18
3.2.9.1
Definition – Participate on a Counting Standards Committee ...................... 18
3.2.9.2
Application For Credit – Participate on a Counting Standards Committee .. 18
3.2.10 Participate on a IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting Standards Committee ….. 19
3.2.10.1
Definition -Participate on a IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting Standards
Committee ……………………………………………………………………………... 19
3.2.10.2
3.2.11
Application For Credit – Participate on a IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting
Standards Committee……………………………………………………….19
Other FP Activity. ................................................................................................. 20
3.2.11.1
Definition – Other FP Activity ..................................................................... 20
3.2.11.2
Application For Credit – Other FP Activity ................................................. 20
4
Appendix A – CFPS Certification Extension Forms
20
5
Appendix B – Revision History
21
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1
CFPS Certification Extension Overview
2
Activity-Credit Rules
In the past, continued CFPS certification has been achieved through reexamination every three (3) years. The
CFPS Certification Extension program provides an alternative to the examination. Before their current
certification expires, individuals may extend their current level of CFPS certification for up to three (3) years in
one (1) year increments by completing cumulative activities in a minimum of one (1) and a maximum of three
(3) Activity Categories (as defined later)
Or
Individuals may extend their current level of CFPS certification for up to three (3) years in one (1) year
increments by completing multiple occurrences within a given Activity Category with a minimum of one (1)
and a maximum of three (3) occurrences.
The only limitation in the number of extensions an individual may obtain is the release of a major change in the
Counting Practices Manual (as defined later).
The CFPS Certification Extension program is under the jurisdiction of the IFPUG Certification Committee,
with oversight provided by the IFPUG Board of Directors (BOD). It is the Committee’s responsibility to
consider suggestions from the members and to ensure that the CFPS Certification Extension program remains
current in adapting to the ever-changing metrics environment.
The IFPUG Board of Directors reserves the right to discontinue the CFPS Certification Extension program at
any time, without advance notice. CFPS Certification Extension program applications postmarked prior to the
discontinuance will be evaluated under the current program rules; applications postmarked after the
discontinuance will not be evaluated.
2.1
Extension Availability
In order to obtain a CFPS Certification Extension an individual must hold a CFPS designation in the most
current Major Change (see 2.4.2) of the IFPUG Counting Practices Manual (CPM). In addition, BOTH the
Activity-Credit Criteria described in Section 2.2 must be met AND a valid extension option from the Options
for CFPS Certification Extension described in Section 2.4 must be available.
An individual who is applying for a CFPS Certification Extension must ensure that his/her application and
supporting documentation arrives at the IFPUG Office or is postmarked 30 calendar days prior to his/her CFPS
expiration date. Applications received or postmarked less than 30 days prior to his/her CFPS expiration date
will be charged a $100 late fee.
Because of the 30-day lead-time required to validate and audit each application, it is possible that an individual
will not have completed 100% of his/her planned Activities prior to the submission deadline. The individual
must identify on his/her application the remaining planned Activity(ies) and provide supporting documentation
upon completion of the Activity(ies).
Classes taken and conference presentations attended during the same week that an individual sits for the CFPS
exam may be applied to his/her next extension period, assuming a successful exam.
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All materials submitted as part of the CFPS Certification Extension application process will be retained by the
IFPUG Office unless otherwise noted.
2.2
Activity-Credit Criteria
In order to qualify for a CFPS Certification Extension, individuals must meet the Activity-Credit criteria
described below.
1. Individuals may accumulate Certification Extension Activities (CEA) from any of the Activities listed in
the Activity-Credit Table.
2. Individuals must accumulate a minimum of 1 activity and must not exceed 3 activities in the defined
eligibility period.
Or
Individuals must accumulate a minimum of 1 occurrence in a given activity and must not exceed 3
occurrences in a given activity in the defined eligibility period
3. Individuals are not required to accumulate CEA from any particular Activity.
4. All CFPS Certification Extension application and supporting documentation submitted must be in
English.
5. The eligibility period for accumulating CEA credit is three years prior to the expiration of an
individual’s CFPS Certification.
a. An individual has three (3) years from the date that they become certified by passing the CFPS
Exam to accumulate sufficient CEA credit to have their CFPS Certification extended for a
minimum of one year and a maximum of three years.
b. Activities completed more than three (3) years before the time the current CFPS Certification or
CFPS Certification Extension expires will not be considered for CEA credit.
c. Any specific instances of an activity previous awarded CEC will not be considered for CEC.
6. The subsequent eligibility period for accumulation CEA is based on the length of time the CFPS
Certification Extension has been granted.
a. During the subsequent eligibility period, an individual can accumulate sufficient CEA credit to
have their CFPS certification extended by one (1), two (2) or three (3) years based on the number
of CEA.
b. Activities completed prior the subsequent eligibility period will not be considered for CEA
Credit.
EXAMPLE – If a CFPS received a two year Certification Extension by way of the Certification
Extension Program, that CFPS would have the two years prior to latest CFPS expiration date to
accumulate sufficient CEA Credit to have their CFPS certification extended for a further length of
time (1, 2, or 3 years). Any CEA activities completed prior to that two year period would be
ineligible for CEA Credit consideration.
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2.3
Validation and Audit
Each Activity listed in the Activity-Credit Table has Basic Validation and Audit criteria associated with it. All
Basic Validation tasks for a given Activity will be performed every time an applicant applies for credit in that
Activity. In addition, Audit tasks for any Activity may be performed at random or at the discretion of the
Certification Committee for any application. See section 3.2 for Basic Validation and Audit criteria for each
Activity.
Multiple individuals may be involved in reviewing an applicant’s CEA documentation. No individual may in
any way be involved in reviewing his/her own CEA documentation.
2.4
Options for CFPS Certification Extension
2.4.1
Take the Current CFPS Exam
An individual may take the current CFPS exam to continue his/her CFPS Certification (become “recertified”). This option eliminates the requirement for any additional education, experience or training
classes for that individual. The CFPS expiration date is based solely on the date the individual passed the
current CFPS exam.
2.4.2 Major Change to the Counting Practices Manual (CPM)
If there is a Major Change to the CPM, an individual will be required to take the current CFPS Exam
reflecting the Major Change to become certified (“re-certified”) under the new Major Change version of
the CPM.
A Major Change is generally defined as a “substantial change” to the CPM that warrants a version
change to the next X.0 (e.g.; 4.0 to 5.0) version designation. The version number is updated as
recommended by the Counting Practices Committee (CPC) with IFPUG BOD approval.
A caveat to the CFPS Certification Extensions is that an individual will only be allowed to obtain one
CFPS Certification Extension if a Major Change occurs during their current CFPS Certification. The
extension of this scenario would extend their current level of certification and would not provide the
individual with certification at the new Major Change level.
2.4.3 Minor change to CPM OR No change to CPM
An individual must accumulate CEC from the Activity-Credit List. The CEC must be accumulated
before the current CFPS Certification expires. The accumulation of CEC would “extend” an
individual’s CFPS Certification for a period of up to three years.
An individual may, if desired, make his/her certification “current” with the latest version of the CPM
under a minor change. This would be accomplished by taking a class that categorizes and explains the
minor changes to the CPM, similar to the FP230 class that was available for the version 4.0 to 4.1
changes. Note that this option does not extend an individual’s certification expiration date.
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3
Activity-Credit Table
3.1
Activity-Credit Table
The following table identifies the Activities that may be used for Certification Extension Activity credit.
Activity
Number
1
Activity Description
Credits
Take one CEA Eligible and registered FP class at any
type of IFPUG Workshop, other than introductory
classes such as FP101
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
OR
non-IFPUG venue, other than introductory classes such
as FP101
2
Teach a CEA eligible FP class at any type of IFPUG
Workshop, including introductory classes such as FP101
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
OR
Teach a CEA eligible and registered FP class at a nonIFPUG venue, including introductory classes such as
FP101
3
Author a CEA eligible FP class to be taught at any type
of IFPUG Workshop, including introductory classes
such as FP101
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
OR
Author a CEA eligible and registered FP class to be
taught at a non-IFPUG venue, including introductory
classes such as FP101
4
Attend an IFPUG Conference that is CEA eligible
OR
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
Attend an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference that is
CEA eligible
5
Present one CEA eligible presentation at an IFPUG
Conference
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
OR
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Present one CEA eligible presentation at an IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter Conference
3.2
6
Perform CEC eligible FP counts (minimum 2000 UFP)
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
7
Validate 10 CEC eligible FP counts
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
8
Author/co-author two CEC eligible FP white papers or
articles
1 Year Extension per
documented occurrence
9
Participate on an IFPUG Counting Standards Committee
(Counting Practices Committee, New Environments
Committee, Certification Committee)
1 Year Extension For
Each Year Of Service
10
Participate on an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting
Standards Committee
1 Year Extension For
Each Year Of Service
11
Other FP Activity. This Activity is to cover FP activities
that are not included in the current Activity-Credit Table.
Credit is given at the discretion of Certification
Committee and with the approval of the IFPUG Board.
Credits TBD
Activity-Credit Table Descriptions
The following subsections define the Activities that may be used to accumulate CEA credit and the Basic
Validation and Audit criteria that will be used to evaluate and confirm CEA.
All materials submitted as part of the CFPS Certification Extension application process will be retained by the
IFPUG Office unless otherwise noted.
3.2.1 Take one CEA eligible and registered FP class at any type of IFPUG Workshop OR at a non-IFPUG
venue
3.2.1.1 Definition – Take one CEA Eligible and registered FP class
Attend one CEA eligible FP class. Attendees must be CFPS to be eligible for CEA credit. Instructors
must be CFPS in order for the class to be eligible for CEA credit. Attendees must attend the full class
session to be eligible for CEA credit.
IFPUG BOD approved, advanced FP class taught at any type of IFPUG Workshop are eligible for CEA
credit. A list of CEA eligible classes is posted on the IFPUG Website and is subject to change without
notice.
IFPUG BOD approved, advanced FP classes created and registered to be taught at a non-IFPUG venue
are eligible for CEA credit. A list of CEA eligible classes and their registered service provider(s) is
posted on the IFPUG Website and is subject to change without notice.
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Any CEA eligible class found to contradict the IFPUG CPM will lose its CEA eligibility, and service
provider registration if applicable, and will be removed from the list of CEA eligible classes without
advance notice.
In order for a class to be designated as eligible for CEA credit, it must teach topics beyond basic
Function Point Analysis, i.e., topics beyond FP101. Eligible CEA classes specifically exclude any 100level classes within the IFPUG Function Point Counting track including introductory function point
classes and refresher classes. The CFPS Exam Preparation classes are also excluded. All CEA eligible
classes must focus primarily on utilization of IFPUG counting rules as defined in the most current
IFPUG Counting Practices Manual (CPM). Classes must be taught by a CFPS, or at least one CFPS if
team-taught, in order to qualify as a CEA eligible class. If a class is team-taught (two instructors
maximum), a CFPS must be the primary instructor and is responsible for the content of the class.
Classes taught by a non-CFPS are not eligible for credit.
3.2.1.2 Application For Credit – Take one CEA Eligible and registered FP class

An individual may only receive CEA credit for a class once for a given CPM Major Change and
once per extension period. If a CEA eligible class is updated to reflect a CPM Major Change then an
individual may again take and apply for credit for the updated class.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying the class attendance and completion.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: attendee name, date(s) of attendance,
name of instructor, class name and IFPUG class number, and length of class. If the class was taken at a
non-IFPUG venue, the service provider name must also be included. CEA documentation may be in the
form of an original course certificate or a copy of the certificate.
Basic Validation
The applicant’s CEA documentation will be cross-checked to verify CEA eligibility.
The applicant’s CEA documentation will be cross-checked against his/her previous extension
applications to ensure that credit is allowed only once per CEA eligible class for a given CPM Major
Release.
Audit
The applicant’s CEA documentation may be cross-checked against IFPUG or service provider class
rosters.
3.2.2 Teach a CEA Eligible FP class at any type of IFPUG Workshop OR teach a CEA eligible and
registered FP class at a non-IFPUG venue
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3.2.2.1 Definition – Teach a CEA Eligible FP class
Teach a CEA eligible FP class. Instructors must be CFPS to be eligible for CEA credit for teaching the
course. Instructors must teach or co-teach the full class session to be eligible for CEA credit.
IFPUG BOD approved, FP classes taught at any type of IFPUG Workshop are eligible for CEA credit.
A list of classes eligible for CEA credit is posted on the IFPUG Website and is subject to change
without notice.
IFPUG BOD approved, advanced FP classes created and registered to be taught at a non-IFPUG venue
are eligible for CEA credit. A list of CEA eligible classes and their registered service provider(s) is
posted on the IFPUG Website and is subject to change without notice.
Any CEA eligible class found to contradict the IFPUG CPM will lose its CEA eligibility, and service
provider registration if applicable, and will be removed from the list of CEA eligible classes without
advance notice.
In order for a class to be designated as a CEA eligible class, it must be intended to teach FPA concepts.
Eligible CEA classes include any 100-level classes within the IFPUG Function Point Counting track
including introductory function point classes and refresher classes. Note that the FP101 course materials
used by an instructor must be certified by the IFPUG Certification Committee in order for his/her class
to be designated as CEA eligible. CFPS Exam Preparation classes are also included. All CEA eligible
classes must focus primarily on utilization of the IFPUG counting rules as defined in the most current
IFPUG CPM. Classes must be taught by a CFPS in order to qualify as a CEA eligible class; classes
taught by a non-CFPS are not eligible for credit.
Classes must be taught by a CFPS, or at least one CFPS if team-taught, in order to qualify as a CEA
eligible class. If a class is team-taught (two instructors maximum), a CFPS must be the primary
instructor and is responsible for the content of the class. Classes taught by a non-CFPS are not eligible
for credit.
3.2.2.2 Application For Credit – Teach a CEA Eligible FP class

An individual may only receive credit once per extension period for instructing a given class.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying the class instruction.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: instructor name, date(s) of instruction,
class name and IFPUG class number, and length of class. If the class was taught at a non-IFPUG venue,
the service provider name must also be included. CEA documentation may be in the form of an original
or copy of the class roster, or the original or copy of course evaluation forms.
Basic Validation
The applicant’s CEA documentation will be cross-checked against IFPUG records (this can be from
Education Services, Certification Committee, Conference Committee, or any other source) to verify
CEA eligibility.
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Audit
The applicant’s CEA documentation may be cross-checked with IFPUG or service provider class rosters
and/or course evaluations.
3.2.3 Author a CEA Eligible FP class to be taught at any type of IFPUG Workshop OR author a CEA
eligible and registered FP class to be taught at a non-IFPUG venue
3.2.3.1 Definition – Author a CEA Eligible FP class
Author a CEA eligible FP class. Authors must be CFPS to be eligible for CEA credit.
IFPUG BOD approved, advanced FP classes created for any type of IFPUG Workshop may be eligible
for CEA credit. A list of classes eligible for CEA credit is posted on the IFPUG Website and is subject
to change without notice.
IFPUG BOD approved, advanced FP classes created and registered to be taught at a non-IFPUG venue
are eligible for CEA credit. A list of CEA eligible classes and their registered service provider(s) is
posted on the IFPUG Website and is subject to change without notice.
Only classes developed by a CFPS at the direction of the IFPUG Education Services Committee are
eligible for credit. Any CEA eligible class found to contradict the IFPUG CPM will lose its CEA
eligibility and/or registration status, and will be removed from the list of CEA eligible classes and/or
registration status without advance notice.
In order for a class to be designated as a CEA eligible class, it must be intended to teach FPA concepts.
Eligible CEA classes include any 100-level classes within the IFPUG Function Point Counting track
including introductory function point classes and refresher classes. Note that the IFPUG Certification
Committee must certify FP101 class materials in order to be eligible for CEA credit, and that credit will
not be given until this certification is complete. CFPS Exam Preparation classes are also included. All
CEA eligible classes must focus primarily on utilization of the IFPUG counting rules as defined in the
most current IFPUG CPM.
Classes must be authored by a CFPS in order to qualify as a CEA eligible class; classes authored by a
non-CFPS are not eligible for credit. If there are multiple authors for a class, at least one author must be
a CFPS and only that person would obtain CEA credit for the class.
3.2.3.2 Application For Credit – Author a CEA Eligible FP class

A CFPS must author the class during the current eligibility period. Credit for the class is applied to
only one extension period. The date of authorship is the first date the IFPUG Office receives the
new class materials, except for FP101. The date of authorship for FP101 is the date the IFPUG
Certification Committee certifies the new class materials.
A CFPS may receive CEA credit once for authoring a given class for a given CPM Major Release.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying the class development.
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CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: author(s) name(s), courseware
completion date, class name and IFPUG class number, length of class and course abstract. If the class is
to be taught at a non-IFPUG venue, the service provider name must also be included.
The CEA documentation will include a copy of the notification from the Education Services Committee
that the “new” class was requested to be developed, even if the class is not taught during the “current
extension period”.
Basic Validation
The applicant’s CEA documentation will be cross-checked to verify CEA eligible designation. For a
“new” class, the verification would be to ensure that the notification from the Education Services
Committee was included as part of the documentation. For “existing” classes, a cursory review of the
updated class will be conducted in order to ensure that the changes for the given CPM Major Release
were included.
Audit
The applicant may be required to submit a copy of the courseware for review.
For an “existing” class, the applicant may be required to submit a copy of the courseware for review
with the changes highlighted.
3.2.4 Attend a Conference that is CEA eligible
3.2.4.1 Definition – Attend a Conference that is CEA eligible.
Attend an IFPUG Conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference that is CEA eligible. In order for
an IFPUG conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter to be eligible for CEA, it must contain at least one
IFPUG Certification Committee pre-approved FP Track presentation. Attendance of an IFPUG
Conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference that does not have at least one Certification
Committee pre-approved presentation will not be eligible for Certification Extension Activity credit.
An Affiliate is officially recognized by IFPUG as an organization with software metrics interests and
meets certain IFPUG defined requirements (for more information please see
http://www.ifpug.org/membership/affiliate.htm). A Chapter is officially recognized by IFPUG as an
organization that provides a venue for Function Point related activities (for more information please see
http://www.ifpug.org/chapters/).
A list of IFPUG Conferences and IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conferences that are eligible for CEA will be
posted on the IFPUG Website before each Conference and is subject to change without notice.
3.2.4.2 Application For Credit –Attend a Conference that is CEA eligible

Credit for each conference is based on minimum of one IFPUG Certification Committee preapproved FP Track presentation at the conference.
Process
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The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying the IFPUG Conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference attendance.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: IFPUG Conference or IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter Conference title and dates of attendance.
Basic Validation
The applicant’s CEA documentation will be cross-checked to verify IFPUG Conference or IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter Conference had CEA eligibility.
Audit
The applicant’s CEA documentation may be cross-checked against the IFPUG Conference or IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter Conference schedule, and registrations.
3.2.5 Present and author a CEA eligible presentation at an IFPUG Conference OR present a CEA eligible
presentation at an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference
3.2.5.1 Definition – Present and author a CEA eligible presentation
Only IFPUG Certification Committee pre-approved FP Track presentations given at an IFPUG
Conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference may be eligible for CEA credit.
An Affiliate is officially recognized by IFPUG as an organization with software metrics interests and
meets certain IFPUG defined requirements (for more information please see
http://www.ifpug.org/membership/affiliate.htm). A Chapter is officially recognized by IFPUG as an
organization that provides a venue for Function Point related activities (for more information please see
http://www.ifpug.org/chapters/).
Any CEA eligible FP Track presentation found to contradict the IFPUG CPM will lose its CEA
eligibility and will be removed from credit eligibility without advance notice.
In order for a FP Track presentation to be designated as a CEA eligible FP track presentation, it must be
intended to present FPA concepts beyond those discussed in FP 101. All CEA eligible FP Track
presentations must focus exclusively on concepts of FP counting as defined in the most current IFPUG
CPM. Presentations must be made by a CFPS to be eligible for CEA credit; presentations made by a
non-CFPS are not eligible for credit. If there are multiple presenters for a presentation, at least one
presenter must be a CFPS and only that person would obtain CEA credit for the presentation.
3.2.5.2 Application For Credit – Present and author a CEA eligible presentation

FP Track presentations must be submitted to the IFPUG Certification Committee 21 calendar days
before the IFPUG Conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference to allow for committee
review and approval. All non English presentations must be accompanied with an English
translation.
Only one CFPS is given credit for the presenting and authoring a CEA eligible presentation.
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
An individual may only receive CEA credit for presenting a specific FP Track presentation once per
IFPUG Conference or IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Conference. This applies to FP track presentations
that receive minor updates between conferences. If an FP Track presentation is updated to reflect a
CPM Major Change then an individual may apply for CEA credit for giving the updated presentation
also.
Process
The applicant will be required to submit a copy of the materials to CC for the FP Track presentation
and/or a summary abstract of the FP Track presentation prior to the IFPUG Conference or IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter Conference.
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying that they presented the FP Track presentation.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: presenter name(s), date of presentation,
FP Track presentation name.
Basic Validation
The applicant’s CEA documentation will be cross-checked to verify CEA eligible FP Track designation.
The applicant will be required to submit a copy of the materials for the FP Track presentation 21 days
prior to the conference.
Audit
The applicant’s CEA documentation may be cross-checked against the IFPUG Conference or IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter Conference schedule and registrations.
3.2.6 Perform CEA eligible FP counts (minimum 2000 UFP)
3.2.6.1 Definition – Perform CEA eligible FP counts
In order for an FP count to be eligible for CEA credit, it must be performed according to the IFPUG
CPM corresponding to the extension request. Any FP count found to contradict the IFPUG CPM will be
designated as ineligible for credit.
To receive credit for this activity, the counting approach used to perform the function point count must
include:
 Determination of the purpose for the function point count
 The scope of the function point count
 Boundaries for the applications addressed by the count
 Determination of each data function and the corresponding Record Element Types, Data Element
Types, and complexity
 Determination of each transactional function and the corresponding File Types Referenced, Data
Element Types, and complexity
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
Determine the VAF and the corresponding AFP
A project count that includes multiple application boundaries must be counted based on those
boundaries. For example, if a project affects two applications, the count detail must address the affect to
each application independently in accordance to the rules in the CPM.
For a project, a count may be performed at any point in the life cycle. However, only one count for a
particular project may be submitted for credit. For example, a project may perform an estimated count
when high-level information is given for a proposal, a count may be performed when requirements are
determined, counts may be performed as necessary during the execution of the project to size changes to
the project and/or the effect of those changes to the total project size, and a final count performed for the
project size with a corresponding count of the application size after the project is completed. Only one
of these counts may be submitted for credit. It is up to the discretion of the applicant which count to
submit, with the exception that the updated application count cannot be submitted for credit in cases
where a project count was applied to update a previous application count.
Counts must be based on application of the rules from the CPM. Therefore, counts based on blanket
assumptions for complexity would not be eligible for credit. Estimates of functional size based on
extrapolation, sampling, backfiring or pure estimation techniques such as multiplying a constant by the
number of ILFs would also not be eligible for credit.
3.2.6.2 Application For Credit – Perform CEA eligible FP counts

The credit is based on a minimum number of 2000 total UPF for all counts submitted.

If multiple CFPS participate on a count, the total UPF of the count will be evenly split, and rounded,
between them.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying completion of the FP count(s).
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following for each FP count submitted for
consideration: counter’s name, list all CFPS count participants, counter’s manager/client name and
contact information, application or project name, scope of count, purpose of count, total UFP, VAF and
the AFP. CEA documentation may be in the form of an original FP Count Summary Form or a copy of
the form.
Basic Validation
Verify submission of the FP Count Summary Form.
Audit
The applicant’s manager/client may be contacted to verify the information on the FP Count Summary
Form.
The applicant may be requested to submit a FP Count Detail Form that contains a representative sample
of the count results by function type. The representative sample will include the larger of the first five
occurrences or 10% of each of the five function types.
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3.2.7 Validate 10 FP counts
3.2.7.1 Definition – Validate 10 FP counts
In order for an FP count validation to earn CEA credit, the count and validation must be performed
according to the IFPUG CPM corresponding to the extension request. Any FP validation found to
contradict the IFPUG CPM will be designated as ineligible for credit. Validation cannot be done on a
count performed by the applicant.
Validation of a FP count is a formal activity by the applicant’s organization that follows a documented
approach to evaluate the accuracy of a previously performed FP count. Validation is not a total recount
of the project or application. Use of statistical formulas or other high level techniques are not
considered validation. The validation requires a formal report normally used by the applicant’s
organization which includes the approach used to validate the function point count including the
determination of how data functions and transactional functions are validated (The approach can be
documented through the attachment of the procedure of the applicant’s organization), an analysis of the
function point count based on the approach, and conclusions on the validity of the count. The function
point count being validated and the validation activity must follow the standard applicable to the current
certification release for the person performing the validation. A person may not receive credit for
validating a count for which he/she was a participant. Validation of examples or case studies are not
eligible for credit. Validations done without a business justification (beyond application for certification
extension activity credit) would be considered the equivalent of a case study. The validation activity
and final report must occur within the certification extension eligibility period.
3.2.7.2 Application For Credit – Validate 10 FP counts

An individual must complete 10 validations.

100 UFP is the minimum size for each application FP count or each project FP count to be
considered for validation credit. If the FP count to be considered is a project FP count with multiple
applications, the applications included in the project FP count must be clearly labeled on the
validation report of the applicant’s organization and the Certification Extension Program application.

The applicant will not receive credit for validation of any FP count where they participated in the
actual counting activity as a function point analyst or as a provider of business, application, or
project information.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying completion of the FP validation(s).
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must include a copy of the full validation report of the applicant’s
organization and detail the following for each FP count validation submitted for consideration:
 The date of the validation activity results, contact information of the client the validation was
performed for or the manager of the applicant or the FP analyst who performed the count being
validated, and the UFP for the FP count being validated.
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Basic Validation
The applicant must submit a copy of the full validation report of the applicant’s organization including
the UFP of the count being validated. If there is confidential or proprietary information contained in the
report, that information may be removed or obscured in the submitted information.
The size of the count being validated meets or exceeds the threshold of 100 unadjusted function points.
Audit
The applicant may be required to submit a copy of the documented procedure used to perform the
validation.
The applicant’s manager, the client requesting the validation, or the original FP analyst (as recorded on
the CEA documentation) may be contacted to verify the validation activity and that the applicant was
not involved in the actual counting activity for the FP count being validated.
3.2.8 Author two CEA eligible white papers or articles
3.2.8.1 Definition – Author two CEA eligible white papers or articles
In order for a white paper and/or article to be eligible for CEA credit, it must be intended to present FPA
concepts. All CEA eligible FP white papers and articles must focus exclusively on FP counting issue as
defined in the IFPUG CPM corresponding to the extension request. Any FP white paper or article found
to contradict the IFPUG CPM will be designated as ineligible for credit.
FP white papers or articles must be authored by a CFPS to be eligible for CEA credit. If there are
multiple authors for a FP white paper or article, at least one author must be a CFPS and only that person
would obtain CEA credit for the FP white paper or article.
A FP white paper is an objective, in-depth, educational report made available within a corporation or
organization. The purpose of this report is to expound on a particular FP counting issue.
A FP article is a composition expounding on a particular FP counting issue. The composition is
included as an independent contribution to a professional or technical publication such as a magazine or
conference proceedings.
3.2.8.2 Application For Credit – Author two CEA eligible white papers or articles

Only one individual may receive credit for a white paper or article.

FP white papers and/or articles must be a minimum of 1500 words.

An individual may only receive credit once for the two FP white papers or articles regardless of the
number of times it is published or posted. This applies to FP white papers and articles that receive
minor updates. If a FP white paper or article is updated to reflect a CPM Major Change then an
individual may apply for CEA credit for also writing the updated FP white paper or article.

IFPUG may request permission to post white papers or articles on the IFPUG website or publish
them in other IFPUG publications.
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Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying the authoring/co-authoring of each FP white paper or article.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: author(s) name(s), applicant’s
manager/client name and contact information, completion date of white paper or article, name of the
white paper or article, copy of the white paper or article, and publication or posting information. CEA
documentation may be in the form of an original memo or letter, or a copy of the memo or letter.
Basic Validation
The applicant will be required to submit a copy of the FP white paper or article. White papers and
articles must focus exclusively on FP counting issue as defined in the IFPUG CPM. The white papers
and articles will be verified that they do not contradict the IFPUG CPM.
Verify that it meets the standard for the minimum number of words.
Audit
If the FP white paper or article was only published within the applicant’s company then the applicant’s
manager may be contacted to verify the FP white paper or article information. If the FP white paper or
article was published external to the applicant’s company then the external publication may be verified.
Verify that this is not a duplicate document.
3.2.9 Participate on a IFPUG Counting Standards Committee
3.2.9.1 Definition – Participate on a IFPUG Counting Standards Committee
Only full-time regular members on an IFPUG Counting Standards Committee (CSC) will be considered
for CEA credit eligibility. Participation on a Task Force or special subcommittee associated with a CSC
is not eligible for credit under this Activity. Participation must meet the CSC and IFPUG policies and
procedures.
NOTE: Activities completed as part of CSC committee assignments are not eligible for any other CEA.
3.2.9.2 Application For Credit – Participate on a Counting Standards Committee

Participate as a full time regular committee member for a minimum of 1 year during the extension
period.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the time
of application verifying CSC membership.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: applicant’s name, name of CSC, name
of committee chair, and start and end dates of CSC membership. CEA documentation may be in the
form of an original memo or letter, or a copy of the memo or letter.
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Basic Validation
The applicant’s CSC membership will be verified through the IFPUG Office.
The applicant’s committee chair/director will be contacted to ensure that participation was given as
appropriate.
Audit
The applicant’s CSC participation and adherence to CSC and IFPUG policies and procedures will be
verified through the committee chair/director.
3.2.10 Participate on an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting Standards Committee.
3.2.10.1 Definition – Participate on an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting Standards Committee
Only full-time regular members on an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting Standards Committee (CSC) will be
considered for CEA credit eligibility.
Credit for participation is limited to issuing IFPUG sponsored Counting Standards approved documents into
languages other than English for use by IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter membership. The final document must be
validated for accuracy and submitted to the IFPUG Office for posting on the IFPUG website.
NOTE: Activities completed as part of IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter CSC committee assignments are not eligible
for any other CEA credit.
3.2.10.2 Application For Credit – Participate on an IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter Counting Standards
Committee

Participate as a full time regular committee member for a minimum of 1 year during the extension
period.
Process
The CFPS Certification Extension applicant must send his/her CEA documentation to IFPUG at the
time of application verifying CSC membership.
CEA Documentation
The applicant’s CEA documentation must detail the following: applicant’s name, name of IFPUG
Affiliate/Chapter, name of CSC, name of committee chair and email address, IFPUG document
name, role, and additional participant names (if applicable). CEA documentation may be in the form
of an original memo or letter, or a copy of the memo or letter.
Basic Validation
The applicant’s CSC membership will be verified through the IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter.
The applicant’s committee chair/director will be contacted to ensure that participation was given as
appropriate.
Audit
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The applicant’s CSC participation and adherence to IFPUG policies and procedures will be verified
through the committee chair/director.
3.2.11 Other FP Activity.
This Activity is to cover FP activities that are not included in the current Activity-Credit Table. CEA
credit is recommended at the discretion of Certification Committee and with the approval of the IFPUG
Board of Directors. If the Activity is approved, the activity and the amount of CEA credit will be
permanently added to the Activity-Credit Table.
3.2.11.1 Definition – Other FP Activity
Only FP related activities that conform to the IFPUG CPM and IFPUG policies and procedures will be
considered for addition to the Activity-Credit Table. Any proposed activity found to contradict the
IFPUG CPM or IFPUG policies and procedures will not be considered for credit eligibility.
3.2.11.2 Application For Credit – Other FP Activity
4

The applicant should contact the Certification Committee as soon as possible to request that a new
Activity be added to the Activity-Credit Table.

Criteria, validation and audit will be recommended by the Certification Committee and must be
approved by the IFPUG BOD.

Minimum processing time for all new requests is 90 calendar days.
Appendix A – CFPS Certification Extension Forms

CFPS Certification Extension Application

FP Count Summary Form

FP Count Detail Form
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Appendix B – Revision History
5
Version History
Version
Description
Author(s)
Date
0.0
Draft
Melinda Ayers, Kriste Lawrence
02-07-2002
0.1
Draft, pending BOD revisions
Melinda Ayers, Kriste Lawrence
03-25-2002
0.2
Draft, pending BOD feedback
Melinda Ayers, Kriste Lawrence
06-07-2002
0.3
Draft, pending BOD approval
CFPS Certification Extension 08-19-2002
Task Force
1.0
BOD Approved 08-19-2002
CFPS Certification Extension 09-01-2002
Task Force
1.1
Clarification of 2.1 and the
Certification Extension
Program Application
Certification Extension Program 06-30-2003
Sub Committee
1.2
Clarification of 3.2.8.2,
3.2.9.1, and 3.2.9.2
Certification Extension Program 07-23-2003
Sub Committee
1.3
Clarification of 3.2.4.1,
3.2.4.2, 3.2.5.1, 3.2.5.2,
3.2.6.1, and 3.2.6.2
Certification Extension Program 09-03-2003
Sub Committee
1.4
Clarification of 3.2.4.1,
3.2.5.1, and 3.2.6.1 – Beyond
FP 101
Certification Extension Program 02-16-2004
Sub Committee
1.5
Addition of CEP Activity 12
Idea Fair presentation of FP
Article/White Paper and the
Certification Extension
Program Application
Certification Extension Program 03-22-2004
Sub Committee
BOD Approved 03-22-2004
1.6
Addition of non – IFPUG
venue to 3.2.2, 3.2.3, and
3.2.4 and the Certification
Extension Program
Application
Certification Extension Program 07-01-2004
Sub Committee
1.7
Modification of Maximum
Certification Extension Credits
Certification Extension Program
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for CEP Activity 7 (from 50 to Sub Committee
70)
BOD approved 8/13/2004
1.8
Addition of IFPUG
Affiliates/Chapter Conference
to 3.2.4, 3.2.5, and 3.2.6 and to
Certification Extension
Program Application along
with increase of Certification
Extension to 3 years from 2
years.
Certification Extension Program 08-01-2006
Sub Committee
BOD approved 7/14/2006
1.9
Addition of CEP Activity 13
Participate on a Counting
Standards Work Group and
Activity 14 Participate on
IFPUG Affiliate/Chapter
Counting Standards
Committee
Certification Extension Program
2-29-2008
Sub Committee
BOD approved
1.10
Addition of CEP Activity 15
Participate on a IFPUG
Board of Directors Counting
Practices Task
Certification Extension Program
6/27/2008
Sub Committee
BOD approved 6/30/2008
1.11
Extensive Revision to entire
document.
Certification Extension Program
7/31/2009
Sub Committee
BOD approved 9/14/2009
1.12
Revision to allow 1, 2, or 3
year certification extensions.
Modification to Activity 7
minimum number of function
points required for a 1 year
extension.
Certification Extension Program
7/01/2012
Sub Committee
Modification to 3.2.11.2
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minimum processing time
changed from 120 days to 90
days
1.13
Modification of Activity 1, 2,
and 3 to allow IFPUG BOD
approved FP class to be
taught at any type of IFPUG
Workshop.
Certification Extension Program
3/1/2013
Sub Committee
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