Domains
The CFMP advisory board has determined that a competent bank marketing professional's expertise includes the following domains:
- Data, Research, and Measurement
- Strategy
- Revenue Generation
- Communication and Brand
- Risk Management
Please review the CFMP Examination Outline and Informational Webinar for additional details.
Study Resources
While ABA recommends these resources as appropriate examination preparation, ABA does not guarantee that you will pass the exam by studying these materials alone. The CFMP exam assesses not only your knowledge of the subjects on the exam outline, but also your application of that knowledge. You should refer frequently to the CFMP Examination Outline when preparing for the exam.
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Certificate
Foundational Certificate in Bank Marketing
Signifies knowledge of marketing’s role in a financial institution and within the banking industry as a whole. This is achieved through learning to develop comprehensive strategic marketing plans, leveraging social media for bank branding and more.
School
Bank Marketing School
Designed to help students think more strategically in their marketing endeavors, and better align their campaigns with corporate goals. School alumni will become invaluable leaders in their banks.
Exam Prep
CFMP exam Online Prep
An interactive, user-friendly online course that allows students to study at their own pace, with access to resources and practice exams modeled after an genuine exam.
Exam Application
Exam Application
When you're ready to apply, double check the eligibility requirements, select your exam date, and submit your application.
Conference
ABA Bank Marketing Conference
Everything you need to fine-tune your marketing and leadership skills – powerful content, smart strategies, expert guidance and more – all while earning valuable CFMP CE credits.
Why Earn Your CFMP?
Hear from John Oxford about the benefits of earning the CFMP designation.
View VideoExam Format, Scoring and Reporting
- 150 multiple-choice questions (see sample questions)
- Maximum 3 hour timeframe allowed
- Calculators will be provided
- Instant "Pass/Fail" outcome provided for most computer based exams at test sites. Occasionally, instant outcomes are not provided while statistical analysis is conducted.
- Official score reports delivered via email within 6 weeks after the close of the exam window
- For full details, read the Certification exam FAQs
Examination Misconduct
All persons taking one of ABA Professional Certifications' examinations are expected to abide by all rules and regulations governing the examination before, during and after the examination. Possession of copies of any current or previous examination given by ABA Professional Certifications is not authorized and is a violation of the rules governing certification exams. Persons taking an ABA Professional Certifications examination are not permitted to take notes about the examination.
Any person found to have violated any of the rules governing ABA Professional Certifications exams, or to have conducted themselves in a dishonest or unethical manner with respect to the taking of an ABA Professional Certifications exam is subject to sanctions determined to be appropriate by ABA Professional Certifications, in its sole discretion, including, but not limited to: denial of certification; denial of the right to take any or all ABA Professional Certifications examinations. Answer sheets provided at paper/pencil testing sites determined, before grading, to have been completed by a person who has violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules will not be graded. We reserve the right to pursue any and all remedies available to it, including legal remedies, with respect to any violation of its examination rules against anyone who violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules or aided another in violating these rules.
Any person found to have violated any of the rules governing ABA Professional Certifications exams, or to have conducted themselves in a dishonest or unethical manner with respect to the taking of an ABA Professional Certifications exam is subject to sanctions determined to be appropriate by ABA Professional Certifications, in its sole discretion, including, but not limited to: denial of certification; denial of the right to take any or all ABA Professional Certifications examinations. Answer sheets provided at paper/pencil testing sites determined, before grading, to have been completed by a person who has violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules will not be graded. We reserve the right to pursue any and all remedies available to it, including legal remedies, with respect to any violation of its examination rules against anyone who violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules or aided another in violating these rules.
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The CISP advisory board has determined that a competent IRA services professional's expertise includes the following knowledge areas. Please review the CISP Examination Outline for more specifics.
While ABA recommends these resources as appropriate examination preparation, ABA does not guarantee that you will pass the exam by studying these materials alone. The CISP exam assesses not only your knowledge of the subjects on the exam outline, but also your application of that knowledge. You should refer frequently to the CISP Examination Outline when preparing for the exam.
All persons taking one of ABA Professional Certifications' examinations are expected to abide by all rules and regulations governing the examination before, during and after the examination. Possession of copies of any current or previous examination given by ABA Professional Certifications is not authorized and is a violation of the rules governing certification exams. Persons taking an ABA Professional Certifications examination are not permitted to take notes about the examination.
Any person found to have violated any of the rules governing ABA Professional Certifications exams, or to have conducted themselves in a dishonest or unethical manner with respect to the taking of an ABA Professional Certifications exam is subject to sanctions determined to be appropriate by ABA Professional Certifications, in its sole discretion, including, but not limited to: denial of certification; denial of the right to take any or all ABA Professional Certifications examinations. Answer sheets provided at paper/pencil testing sites determined, before grading, to have been completed by a person who has violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules will not be graded. We reserve the right to pursue any and all remedies available to it, including legal remedies, with respect to any violation of its examination rules against anyone who violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules or aided another in violating these rules.
Any person found to have violated any of the rules governing ABA Professional Certifications exams, or to have conducted themselves in a dishonest or unethical manner with respect to the taking of an ABA Professional Certifications exam is subject to sanctions determined to be appropriate by ABA Professional Certifications, in its sole discretion, including, but not limited to: denial of certification; denial of the right to take any or all ABA Professional Certifications examinations. Answer sheets provided at paper/pencil testing sites determined, before grading, to have been completed by a person who has violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules will not be graded. We reserve the right to pursue any and all remedies available to it, including legal remedies, with respect to any violation of its examination rules against anyone who violated ABA Professional Certifications examination rules or aided another in violating these rules.
As a licensed Professional Engineer, or PE, you can expect many more benefits when compared to other engineers; most employers offer higher salaries and greater opportunities for advancement to PE's. Only PE's can consult in private practice, and seal company documents to be sent to the government. PEs also have more credibility as expert witnesses in court than most engineers.
Steps in obtaining a PE license:
- Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) Exam.
- Graduate with a bachelor's degree from an ABET accredited engineering curriculum (all Engineering curricula at Michigan Tech except Robotics Engineering).
- Gain four years of engineering experience under the supervision of a registered professional engineer.
- Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) Exam.
During your senior year you should take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which is required prior to sitting for the Professional Engineers (PE) Exam. Some requirements vary by state.
The ISA Certified Automation Professional® (CAP®) certification is a mark of career excellence that affirms your commitment to quality and demonstrates your expertise and knowledge of automation and controls. ISA CAP certification provides you with a non-biased, third-party, objective assessment and confirmation of your skills and expertise as an automation professional.
Who Are CAPs?
CAP Certification Requirements
To become an ISA CAP, you must meet certain education and work experience requirements, pass an exam, and commit to the ISA Code of Conduct. Learn more about CAP requirements.
CAP Body of Knowledge
The CAP Body of Knowledge (BOK) encompasses the full scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for competent job performance. It defines automation project domains, the tasks within the domains, and the knowledge and skills required to complete the tasks. View the CAP Body of Knowledge.
How to Apply
There is no application form to fill out for CAP certification. Simply complete the following steps:
- Commit to the ISA Code of Conduct.
- Meet CAP certification criteria, qualifications, and conditions.
- Acknowledge that you are subject to a random application verification audit.
- Agree to provide the supporting documents proving your qualifications if you are audited.
- Pay the exam fee.
Upon paying the exam fee, the application process is complete, and you have acknowledged that you meet the requirements listed above in numbers 1–3.
Next Steps
- Watch for an email from our testing provider, Meazure Learning (candidatesupport@meazurelearning.com). Expect to receive it fifteen days before your exam window. The email will include information about how to schedule your exam online or at a test center. NOTE: If you have attended a CCST review course and wish to apply for CCST certification, you must also meet the requirements listed above in numbers 1–3. Since the application fee is included in the cost of all CCST review courses, you will receive an exam invitation within three business days after completing the review course.
- Schedule and take your exam. You will be notified whether you pass or not immediately upon completing the exam.
- Watch for an email summarizing your exam results. If you pass your exam, you will also receive your digital badge and you will be listed in the ISA Credential Directory.
- Watch for an email from certification@isa.org regarding an audit. You will only receive this email if you have been randomly selected to be audited. If you do not receive this email, you do not need to do anything. Audits are conducted three times per year, so it may take several months after completing your exam to receive an email if you have been selected for an audit.
Click the button below to add the exam fee to your cart.
Add CAP exam Fee to CartAbout the Exam
You can take the CAP exam online from your office or home if the testing environment meets the requirements and your computer meets specifications. You can also take the exam at a Scantron test center. The CAP exam has 150 multiple-choice questions and is four hours long. Learn more about Certification Exams and Testing.
How to Prepare
We highly recommend taking the Certified Automation Professional (CAP) exam Review Course (EC00). ISA has also developed an extensive library of training courses, study guides and publications that are built around the technologies and subjects covered on the CAP exam. These resources have been developed and reviewed by subject matter experts. Learn more about the review course and the additional resources here.
Reference to Standards and Codes
The aspects of automation covered on the CAP exam reflect the tasks performed in the range of practice settings throughout the United States. Familiarity with the following standards and codes is recommended. get the Reference to Standards and Codes (PDF).
- ISA Standards
- IEEE Standards
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes and Standards
- National Electrical Code (NEC)
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standards
- International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standards
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Standards
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Codes and Federal Regulations
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Standards
- US Food and Drug Administration Regulations
- American Petroleum Institute (API) Standards
For International applicants, note that the validation study for the exams was done in the United States, so there may be questions on the exam that reference US standards and codes.
Length: 21 Modules; approximately 21 hours of instruction plus supplemental reading
CEU Credits: 2.1
Certification of Completion: A Certificate of Completion indicating the total number of CEUs earned will be provided upon successful completion of the course.
Description:
This is a self-paced, online course consisting of 21 modules which review the knowledge and skills areas included on the CAP examination. The intent is to prepare an automation professional who meets the exam criteria to take the exam. The content is based on the Job Analysis: Domains, Tasks, Knowledge Areas, and Skill Areas developed as the basis for the CAP certification exam.
You will be able to:
- Recognize the benefits of earning CAP certification
- Explain the scope of CAP certification
- Recognize the six domains of CAP and that each domain includes specific tasks
- Explain characteristics of the CAP exam
- Discuss measurement concepts in relation to process instrumentation
- Discuss pressure measurement concepts, methods and considerations.
- Discuss level measurement concepts, methods and considerations.
- Discuss temperature measurement concepts, methods and considerations.
- Discuss flow measurement concepts, methods and considerations.
- Click to see all learning objectives
You will cover:
- CAP Basics
- Process Instrumentation
- Analytical Instrumentation
- Continuous Control
- Control Valves and Analog Communications
- Control System Documentation and Control Equipment
- Basic, Discrete Sequencing and Manufacturing Control/Discrete and Sequencing Control
- Motor and Drive Control
- Motion Control
- Advanced Control
- Batch Control
- Alarm Management and Reliability, Safety and Electrical
- Process Safety and Safety Instrumented Systems
- Electrical Installations and Electrical Safety
- Digital Communications
- Industrial Networks
- MES Integration and Network Security
- Operator Interface and Data Management
- Deployment and Operation
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance
- Work Structure
Assignments and Exercises:
- Supplemental memorizing and practice questions are included.
Course Resources (included with registration):
- Access to 21 modules for one year
- Module Noteset with slides available for each module
- Practice Questions within each module and additional practice questions in pdf format for some modules
Electronic Textbook:
Certified Automation Professional Study Guide
More Ways to Learn (Recommended):
A Guide to the Automation Body of Knowledge, 3rd Edition
Edited by: Nicholas P. Sands, PE, CAP, ISA Fellow and Ian Verhappen, P Eng, CAP, ISA Fellow
Modules may be purchased individually.
Module 2 Process Instrumentation
Module 3 Analytical Instrumentation
Module 5 Control Valves and Analog Communications
Module 6 Control System Documentation and Control Equipment
Module 7 Basic, Discrete Sequencing and Manufacturing Control/Discrete and Sequencing Control
Module 8 Motor and Drive Control
Module 12 Alarm Management and Reliability, Safety and Electrical
Module 13 Process Safety and Safety Instrumented Systems
Module 14 Electrical Installations and Electrical Safety
Module 15 Digital Communications
Module 17 MES Integration and Network Security
Module 18 Operator Interface and Data Management
Module 19 Deployment and Operation
No matter where you are in your professional journey, you can gain the skills needed to stay ahead of the curve in today’s global workplace with Goodwin College of Professional Studies. Through the guidance of industry experts, you learn practical, in-demand skills that can be applied immediately. Explore diverse non-credit education in fields ranging from coding and data visualization to project management and Lean Six Sigma. We offer courses individually and in bundles that offer learning pathways based on where you are in your career, skill gaps and professional interests.
What sets your professional education apart at Goodwin is the Drexel difference. Known for innovative, relevant and experiential learning, you gain the industry insider advantage. Whether you are looking to take a self-paced course, earn a certificate, prepare for a professional exam, immerse yourself in one- or two-day seminars or bring our training to your organization, Goodwin can create a learning pathway to fit your needs, around your schedule.
Read about Drexel's Covid-19 Response
Explore in-person training as well as self-paced online courses in a variety of in-demand subjects.
Learning pathways and course bundles designed to meet you where you are in your career.
What Is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)?
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a formal recognition of expertise in the areas of financial planning, taxes, insurance, estate planning, and retirement saving.
Owned and awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., the designation is awarded to individuals who successfully complete the CFP Board's initial exams, then continue ongoing annual education programs to sustain their skills and certification.
Key Takeaways
- A certified financial planner (CFP) has received a formal designation from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc.
- CFPs help individuals in a variety of areas in managing their finances, such as retirement, investing, education, insurance, and taxes.
- Becoming a CFP is a difficult and stringent process. It requires years of experience, successful completion of standardized exams, a demonstration of ethics, and a formal education.
- The most important aspect quality of a CFP is that they have a fiduciary duty, meaning they must make decisions with their client's best interests in mind.
Understanding a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
CFPs are there to help individuals manage their finances. This can include a variety of needs, such as investment planning, retirement planning, insurance, and education planning. The most important aspect of a CFP is to be a fiduciary of your assets, meaning that they will make decisions with your best interests in mind.
CFPs are all-encompassing, particularly when compared to investment advisors. CFPs will usually start the process by evaluating your current finances, including any cash, assets, investments, or properties, to come up with an estimate of your income and net worth. They also take a look at your liabilities, such as mortgages and student debt.
From this point on they work with you to come up with an individualized financial plan. For example, say you are nearing retirement, the CFP will create a financial plan that can see you through your retirement years. Or perhaps you have a child that will be starting college. The CFP can help create a financial plan to manage that cost.
A CFP is a financial adviser who has earned a certification that indicates in-depth knowledge of financial planning. The requirements to become a CFP are some of the most difficult and stringent in the financial industry.
CFP and Fiduciary Duty
All CFPs are held to the standard of fiduciary duty. That means they must always put your interests as a client ahead of their own. For example, if they would more money selling one product over another, but the product that made them less money was better for you, that is the product they must recommend.
A CFP's fiduciary duty is clearly laid out by the CFP Board and states "At all times when providing financial advice to a client, a CFP professional must act as a fiduciary, and therefore, act in the best interest of the client."
The board goes on to state that three duties must be met by an adviser with a fiduciary duty. These are (1) duty of loyalty, (2) duty of care, and (3) duty to follow client instructions.
How to Become a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Earning the CFP designation involves meeting requirements in four areas: formal education, performance on the CFP exam, relevant work experience, and demonstrated professional ethics.
The education requirements comprise two major components. The candidate must hold a bachelor's or higher degree from an accredited university or college. Second, the candidate must complete a list of specific courses in financial planning, as specified by the CFP Board.
Much of this second requirement is typically waived if the candidate holds certain accepted financial designations, such as a chartered financial analyst (CFA) or certified public accountant (CPA) designation, or has a higher degree in business, such as a master of business administration (MBA).
As for professional experience, candidates must prove they have at least three years (or 6,000 hours) of full-time professional experience in the industry, or two years (4,000 hours) in an apprenticeship role.
Lastly, candidates and CFP holders must adhere to the CFP Board's standards of professional conduct. They must also regularly disclose information about any involvement in criminal activity, inquiries by government agencies, bankruptcies, customer complaints, or terminations by employers. The CFP Board conducts an extensive background check on all candidates before granting the certification.
Even successful completion of the above steps doesn't guarantee receipt of the CFP designation. The CFP Board has final discretion on whether to award the designation to an individual.
The Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Exam
The CFP exam includes 170 multiple-choice on more than 100 subjects related to financial planning. The scope includes professional conduct and regulations, financial planning principles, education planning, risk management, insurance, investments, tax planning, retirement planning, and estate planning.
The various Topic areas are weighted, and the most accurate weighting is available on the CFP Board website. Further questions test the candidate's expertise in establishing client-planner relationships and gathering relevant information, and their ability to analyze, develop, communicate, implement, and monitor the recommendations they make to their clients.
Here's some additional information on the administration, costs, and scoring of the CFP exam:
- Timing: Candidates sit for two three-hour sessions on a single day; a 40-minute break period separates the sessions. Exams are typically offered in three eight-day windows: March, July, and November.
- Cost: $925 for an exam administered at a U.S. test site, with a discount for early applications and a surcharge for late ones.
- Passing Score: This is criterion-referenced, which means performance is measured according to a set level of required competency, rather than against the scores of other individuals who have written the same exam. This prevents any advantages or disadvantages that can occur when past exams were of lower or higher difficulty.
- Retaking the test: If you fail, you may retake the test up to four additional times.
CFP vs. CFA
Though a certified financial planner (CPA) and a chartered financial analyst (CFA) may sound similar, they are different certifications with different job functions and clients. A CFP works with individuals, often retail clients, helping them achieve their financial goals. This includes help in investing and retirement planning.
A CFA works with corporations performing investment analysis. CFAs focus on financial reporting, analysis, and portfolio management. They can trade financial products, such as derivatives, and help in mergers and acquisitions. CFA's usually work for investment banks and hedge funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Do You Need a CFP?
If you are just looking to invest money in stocks and bonds, a CFP probably isn't needed.
If you are looking to manage your finances, investment choices, estate planning, and retirement planning, a CFP can help you with all of those needs.
A CFP is a step above a non-designated financial advisor and has demonstrated expertise in financial planning.
How Much Does a CFP Cost?
How much a CFP costs will depend on your specific needs.
On average, a CFP charges between $1,800 and $2,500 for preparing a full financial plan. You also should expect $4,000 for a flat-fee retainer or $250 per hour for hourly services.
Is CFP the Same as CFA?
No, CFP and CFA are not the same.
A CFP is a certified financial planner who provides financial planning advice to individuals. This includes help with investing, retirement planning, estate planning, and tax law.
A CFA is a chartered financial analyst who may work for an investment bank or hedge fund and performs financial analysis, modeling, trading, and portfolio management services.
Is CFP Equivalent to MBA?
No, a CFP is not equivalent to an MBA.
A certified financial planner (CFP) is qualified to advise individuals on financial planning.
The holder of a master of business degree has studied the way businesses operate.
The career paths differ. A CFP works in financial consulting or wealth management. An MBA may be a business manager, portfolio manager, financial analyst, financial strategist, or even an entrepreneur.
Is the CFP exam Hard?
The CFP exam requires a lot of preparation and covers a wide range of subjects in depth. The best way to ensure you pass the CFP exam is by preparing for it well in advance and sticking to a study schedule.
The Bottom Line
Becoming a CFP takes education and experience, as well as a strong grasp of financial ethics. The test to gain this distinction is comprised of 170 questions and is split into two three-hour sessions.
Even if candidates pass the test and meet all the requirements, the CFP Board still has the final say about whether to award this distinction. Given the stringent requirements, CFPs can be assumed to have an in-depth understanding of financial planning.
Objective 1: The UD Graduate College, in collaboration with partners from within and outside the institution, will build data- and outcome-driven, integrated and holistic graduate professional development resources that help graduate students and postdocs thrive during their time on campus and beyond. Upon completing their training at UD, our students and postdocs will have acquired the following competencies:
- leadership and management
- effective communication
- teaching and mentoring
- personal growth and wellbeing
- career navigation
Objective 2: The Graduate College will inspire, educate and empower graduate students and postdocs in their career journeys.
GPS Research Publications
The CEPI provides unbiased guidance and resources for issuers, service providers and auditors. These research efforts build the GPS library.
