How to Become a CFRE

The CFRE application operates on a points system and candidates must score a minimum number of points in each of the four sections—Education, Professional Practice, Performance, and Service—to be considered eligible for the exam. The completed application (and applicable fees) must be submitted for review no later than 60 days before a scheduled exam. If approved, an Eligibility letter will be sent to the candidate. Specific point requirements for each section and a downloadable application can be found at www.cfre.org.

Once a candidate’s application has been approved to take the CFRE exam, he/she has 12 months to take and pass the examination. If an applicant fails to pass the exam on the first try, it can be re-taken after three months. An applicant can take the exam every three months during the 12 month period of eligibility, if necessary. However, if an applicant fails to pass the exam in the allotted 12 months, a new application (with applicable fees) must be submitted

 

The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and tests applicants’ knowledge in six areas:

Each applicant is allowed a total of four hours to complete the exam. The cost of the exam in $425 for members of participating organizations (see “What is the CFRE”) and $600 for non-members. Fundraising professionals interested in taking the certification exam should contact the CFRE program staff to request a certification packet. Phone 703-370-5555; fax 703-370-5099; email info@cfre.org; or download from the website at www.cfre.org.

 

NOTE: All CFRE candidates must complete an application and submit all fees prior to the exam.