On January 1, 2020, Qualified Associate Financial Planner™ certification replaced FPSC Level 1® certification, and all current FPSC Level 1 certificants became QAFP professionals.
QAFP™ certification demonstrates a financial planner’s competence and commitment to the highest ethical standards of responsibility. QAFP professionals have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, experience and ethics to provide holistic financial planning strategies and solutions for average Canadians with typical financial planning needs.
The QAFP designation presents a certification option for financial planners wishing to serve a broad market, or for those wishing to gain recognition of their qualifications and professionalism along the path to CFP® certification. QAFP professionals enable a broad population of Canadians to access the professional financial planning advice they need. They play an important role in helping their clients begin the journey to living life with confidence.
To obtain the QAFP designation, candidates must complete a rigorous education program, pass a national exam and demonstrate one year of qualifying work experience. To maintain certification, QAFP professionals must keep their knowledge and skills current by completing 12 hours of continuing education each year. They must also adhere to FP Canada Standards Council™ Standards of Professional Responsibility, including a Code of Ethics which mandates that QAFP professionals place their clients’ interests first. The Standards Council vigilantly enforces these standards.
FAQ: QAFP Certification
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Education is a key component of the path to QAFP certification, ensuring that QAFP professionals develop the knowledge and skills required for excellence in financial planning.
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The QAFP examination is a four-hour, computer-based exam consisting of case-based and stand-alone, mutliple-choice questions. The exam focuses on the FP Canada Standards Council Competency Profile and integrates across financial planning topic areas.
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To apply for QAFP certification, candidates must complete one year of qualifying work experience. Working directly with clients provides the opportunity to hone your skills and demonstrate that you’re able to serve clients in a real-world setting.
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QAFP certification is valid for one year. To maintain certification, QAFP professionals must renew their certification by July 31 each year. There are several requirements that QAFP professionals must attest to in order to renew their certification.
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QAFP professionals have an obligation to ensure that their knowledge and competence remains current and must complete 12 hours of Continuing Education (CE) annually, including 1 hour of CE in the category of Professional Responsibility.
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Helping people plan for their future financially is not just a way to make a living. It’s a way to make a difference. QAFP professionals have the opportunity to give clients financial peace of mind.
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Path to QAFP™ Certification