Expert Comparison by Paul Barnhurst
Find the Best FP&A Certification for Your Career Goals
Save hundreds with exclusive The FP&A Guy discount codes. Learn which program is right for you with detailed reviews based on my personal experience with each program.
Note: I have affiliate relationships with many of the vendors listed and earn a commission when you click on certain links and purchase the program.
5
Certifications Compared
Up to $300
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Paul teaches at CFI and Wharton Online
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Compare Certifications
| Certification | Cost(with Discount) | Time | Best For | Discount | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFP FPACGlobal Credential | $875+ | 6-12 mos+ exam | Those wanting a formal FP&A credential | TheFPAGuy-FPAC$150 off Exam | Review → |
| Wharton Online/WSPFP&A Certificate | $4,700 | 8 weeksCohort | Those wanting the Wharton name and network | THEFPAGUY300$300 off | Review → |
| CGFPA ProfessionalFP&A Professionals Institute | $1,595 | 6 MonthsCohort | Those wanting live instruction at a value price | FPAGUY$200 off | Review → |
| CFI FPAPFinancial Planning & Analysis Professional | $348-593 | 3-6 mosSelf-paced | Best value, comprehensive self-paced training | FPAGUY3030% off | Review → |
| FMIFinancial Modeling Institute | $616 | 40-80 hrsSelf-paced | Those focused on financial modeling skills | Podcast15% off | Review → |
Not sure which one?
Entry-level?
Consider FPI CGFPA or CFI FPAP
Mid-career?
Consider AFP FPAC or Wharton Online
Financial Modeling?
Choose FMI AFM Program
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FAQs on FP&A and Certifications
Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) is a key function within a company. FP&A helps companies make better, faster decisions by forecasting future financial performance, creating budgets, analyzing past results, and advising leadership on strategic decisions. FP&A involves not only working with numbers and spreadsheets but also communicating insights and recommendations to help the company achieve its long-term strategic plan.
An FP&A certificate or certification is a great way to demonstrate you are committed to FP&A and to show employers you are serious about the profession. Earning an FP&A certificate can help set you apart from other professionals in your field. Certificates can provide a structured path for developing and refining the skills necessary to be successful in FP&A. Certificates not only enhance career progression options but they can also pave the way for future leadership roles.
Many different paths exist for breaking into FP&A. I have written a detailed article covering the most common paths to FP&A. How to Break into Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) — Your Complete Guide