Choose the Right Certification


Know the Difference: Certification vs. Certificate 

When it comes to advancing your career in FP&A, it’s important to understand the difference between earning a certification and completing a certificate program. While both can enhance your skills, only one provides a globally recognized credential that validates your expertise and sets you apart.


Certification: A Recognized Credential

A certification, like the Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC), demonstrates that you have mastered industry-recognized competencies and met strict requirements, including passing an exam and maintaining ongoing professional development.

Certificate: A Learning Achievement

A certificate program provides training on a specific topic and confirms that you have completed a course. While valuable for learning, it does not require an exam or ongoing renewal and does not serve as an industry designation.


 

FPAC Certification

Certificate Program

Industry RecognitionGlobally recognized professional credentialAcknowledgment of course completion
Exam RequirementMust pass a rigorous examNo exam required
Work ExperienceRequires work experience, giving employers confidence in your ability to perform job tasks competentlyNo work experience required
Ongoing Professional DevelopmentRequires continuing education to maintain credentialNo ongoing education required
Career ImpactEnhances credibility, salary potential and job opportunitiesProvides additional knowledge but not a professional designation
Skills ValidationVerifies expertise in FP&A competenciesDemonstrates completion of coursework

Which certification is right for you?

With so many finance certifications and certificates available, choosing the right one is essential for advancing your career and reaching your professional goals.

Earning the Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC) credential validates your expertise and commitment to:

 Turning strategy into action – Translating corporate and business strategy into a financial plan and driving execution through planning and resource allocation.

 Applying financial expertise – Leveraging modeling, scenario analysis and key performance indicators (KPIs) to guide business decisions.

✔ Becoming a trusted advisor – Building credibility and strong partnerships through effective communication and strategic insights.

The FPAC certification is the only credential built by FP&A professionals, for FP&A professionals. If you’re looking to sharpen your forecasting, analytics and business strategy skills, FPAC is the best way to elevate your career.

So Which Certification is Right for You? 


For a more technical breakdown, check-out the chart below.


 

Certified Corporate FP&A Professional (FPAC)

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)/
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certificate Programs

Who It’s ForFinance professionals looking to specialize in FP&A and improve forecasting, modeling and business strategyProfessionals seeking careers in investment management and researchAccountants aiming to work in financial reporting, auditing and taxProfessionals new to FP&A or transitioning into the field
Exam Requirement2-part exam3 exam levels

4 exam parts for CPA
2 exam parts for CMA

No exam
Study Hours Required80+ hours of self-study900+ hours of self-study300+ hours (CPA), 140+ hours (CMA) per partVaries by program
Ongoing EducationYes, recertification requiredNone, but CFA charter holders must follow ethical standardsYes, continuing education requiredNo renewal required
Job Titles That BenefitFP&A Analyst, FP&A Manager, Finance Director, CFOPortfolio Manager, Research Analyst, Risk Manager, CFOAccountant, Controller, CFO, Tax ManagerVaries by program

Already Hold a Financial Credential?

You may be eligible to waive Part I of the exam. In order to qualify for a waiver, candidates must hold one of the following credentials active and in good standing at the time of their application: CFA, CMA, CPA (US, Canada, Australia) or CTP.

Learn more about the waiver and how to apply for it here.