Independent Training
Designed for groups and individuals who want a more personalized learning experience.
Is this Pathway right for me?
If you or your organization or group is seeking a more curated, customized education experience, then the Independent Training Pathway may be right for you!
Through this pathway, you choose your preferred trainer-developed program led by an AFC® certified professional to fulfill the education requirements for the certification.
What are the requirements?
Select your preferred Independent Training Program by clicking the link below and enroll in that program. Once you complete a training program, submit your certificate of completion and AFCPE will approve you to sit for the AFC exam.
Each AFC Registered Independent Training Program will determine their own tuition and fees and will contract with an interested individual or organization independently of the AFC Certification program.
Please see the AFC Candidate Handbook for full eligibility criteria.
Optional Education Materials
Several education materials are offered to support you on your journey to earning your AFC®. Choose which materials work best for your learning style.
Learners should check with their preferred trainer to confirm which course materials are required.
The AFC® Learning System is a dynamic, self-paced educational program designed to help you build the knowledge and skills required to prepare you for the AFC® exam and become a confident, effective financial counselor. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to deepen your expertise, the system offers the resources and structure to support your educational journey.
Prefer learning offline or want a physical reference you can mark up and revisit? The AFC® Learning System has a printed textbook option to complement the digital course materials.
This textbook includes the full AFC® Body of Knowledge, covering all core content areas needed to prepare for the AFC® exam. It’s perfect for learners who prefer reading from the page, highlighting key sections, or studying without screen time.
Certification Pricing
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Registration Fee: $75
One-time fee due upfront during registration. Includes the price of your transcript review.
Education Materials: Varies by Trainer
The cost of your education materials is determined by the Independent Training Program you select.
Exam Fee: $750
Can be purchased during registration or later.
While candidates have up to three years to complete all certification requirements, access to the AFC Learning System is for one year.
Classic Study Bundle
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Registration Fee
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Transcript Review Fee
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AFC® Exam Fee
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AFC® Online Study Guide
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Recommended Textbooks
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AFC® Webinar Review
Complete Study Bundle
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Registration Fee
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Transcript Review Fee
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AFC® Exam Fee
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AFC® Online Study Guide
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Recommended Textbooks
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AFC® Webinar Review
Certification registration fee is non-refundable. Please view the AFCPE® Refund & Transfer Policy for more details.
The Certification Council does not require, provide, accredit, or endorse any specific study guides, training or review courses, or other examination preparation products. The Certification Council, certification staff, certification committee members, and certification subject matter experts do not have involvement in the creation, accreditation, approval, endorsement or delivery of examination review courses, preparatory materials, educational programs, or training programs/products that prepare candidates for the AFC certification examination.
Not Sure Which Pathway is Best for You?
Register for a free AFC® Info Session
Join our Certification Team for a no-pressure, informative session to get all the information you need to make your decision!
Our info sessions are held monthly. Can't make it live? Register and we'll send you the recording!
Or, send us an email at certification@afcpe.org to discuss your options.
Explore Other Pathways
Self-Paced Study
Registered Education Programs
Professional Designation Challenge
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