You believe in a future where all people — regardless of income or background — deserve financial security through the highest quality financial counseling, coaching and education.
As an Accredited Financial Counselor, you help make it a reality.
Why the AFC?
Confidence
Credibility
Impact
The Accredited Financial Counselor (AFC) certification provides you with the knowledge and experience to meet individuals and families where they are, help them build a strong financial foundation, realize their goals and achieve lasting financial well-being.
How can I use my AFC?
AFC professionals work in a variety of capacities across the field of personal finance. Explore our career center to learn more about the career pathways you can take with an AFC credential.
What Makes the AFC Different?
We are proud to be NCCA-accredited.
The AFC’s compliance with NCCA standards shows that the educational content and testing for the AFC is psychometrically sound and has been developed, maintained, and governed at the highest standard. NCCA accreditation sets the AFC certification mark apart from all other financial counseling certifications in the field. It confirms to employers, colleagues, and clients the rigor and quality of the AFC education.
In good company: View FINRA’s list of accredited designations.
How do I earn my AFC?
4 Steps to Certification
The following steps can be completed in any order; every candidate’s journey is different. You will have 3 years from the date of enrollment to complete the program. Click on each icon for additional information.
Education
There are multiple pathways to satisfy the educational requirements to be eligible to sit for the AFC exam
Exam
1 proctored examination offered on a rolling basis at over 300 locations nationwide.
Experience
1000 hours are required. There are many ways to earn hours and past experience may count.
Ethics
3 years from enrollment to complete all requirements including signing the AFCPE Code of Ethics.
Self-Study
Self-Paced Study is the most flexible pathway to earning the AFC® certification. AFC candidates can choose from accessing the AFC® Learning System or taking the AFCPE AFC Prep Course. We invite you to explore these options and discover the benefits of Self-Paced Study.
Purchasers have one year of access to self-study with extension available.
Instructor-Led Training
Instructor-Led Training is ideal for those seeking a personalized learning experience from an AFC® Independent Trainer. Individuals preparing for the AFC exam can choose from a list of highly-qualified trainers either leveraging the AFC Learning System or their custom program.
Prepare Your Team
This pathway is available to groups and organizations interested in putting their staff through certification. We invite decision makers across all industries and sectors to contact us for a tailored proposal and pricing structure. Click or tap below to get started and will get back to you as soon as we can.
Already completed your financial education?
Are you a CFP®, CPA, ChFC® or CFA®?
How will AFCPE support me?
Registering for the AFC is a big decision. We want to make sure you have a strong community, staff support, and career guidance on your journey to earning the AFC.
Office Hours
Connected Community
Career Center
Find your dream
financial counseling
job or internship.
Special Pricing
- AFC exam discounts for students
- Group pricing
- Military educational benefits
- MyCAA for eligible military spouses
Become an AFCPE Member
How do I maintain my certification?
Learn more about post-certification requirements.
Pay Annual Fee
Due each year by June 30.
Earn 30 CEUs
Due every two years by June 30. Always due in an even year.
Re-sign Code of Ethics
Upholding the highest standards.
Looking for more information?
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