Certified Finance Specialist (CFS)

Accredited as a Level 8 qualification on the UK’s national qualifications framework (SCQF) and benchmarked as a Level 5 qualification on the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). 

Free study materials, free registration, and no annual subscription or re-sit fees. You pay only a one-time exam fee.

A lean syllabus designed for exam success within just 3–5 months.  Self-paced learning to fit work and life commitments.  

You may:

• Self-study using free official study materials, or 
• Study through an approved learning provider in selected countries

Both routes lead to the same certification. 

Builds capability in budgeting, financial analysis, performance measurement, and decision-making. Valuable for roles in corporate finance, financial planning, analysis, and management.

The Certified Finance Specialist (CFS) is ideal for:

• Working professionals seeking to upskill in finance 
• Career changers moving into finance-related roles
• Graduates or school-leavers preparing for future careers

• No formal degree is required 
• Minimum age: 20 years

This makes the CFS accessible to ambitious learners worldwide.

The CFS® exam is a single, on-demand online test available year-round. It lasts 2 hours and consists of 75 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Each question carries 4 marks, making a total of 300 marks.

To pass, candidates must score at least 60%. All questions have one correct or best answer, and there is no negative marking for incorrect responses.

Candidates must use a laptop or desktop computer with a webcam and a stable internet connection to take the exam.

Candidates are entitled to up to three (3) free re-sit opportunities. A re-sit may be taken immediately after an unsuccessful attempt. All re-sit opportunities must be utilised within 90 days from the date of purchase.

• Details about exam registration process are available at iqnglobal.com/exam-registration.  
• To register, candidates must create an  online exam account. 
• Further information about the online exam experience is available at  iqnglobal.com/exam-experience.

Upon successfully passing the exam, your digital certificate and digital badge will be issued within seven (7) working days.

Click “Register Now” to receive your FREE copy of the CFS Body of Knowledge, along with a practice book containing exam-style MCQs. These resources provide complete coverage of what you need to prepare for the CFS® exam. 

You will study on your own using the free CFS Body of Knowledge and Practice Book. With our free resources, you can study independently through the self-study route, at your own pace and schedule.

Alternatively, in selected countries, approved learning providers are available to support you in achieving the CFS® designation.

After completing your exam preparation, you can pay and register for the CFS® exam. The exam is computer-based and available throughout the year. You can take it virtually at any time, from anywhere in the world.

However,  if you are studying with an approved learning provider, they will guide you through their own learning and examination arrangements.