What is the CFF® Credential?
The Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF®) Credential is a strategic way to distinguish yourself as an expert in forensic accounting services. Recognized as an industry standard for specialized competencies, the CFF credential positions practitioners to advance in forensic accounting engagements for litigative and investigative support services.
The CFF credential is offered globally and granted exclusively to CPAs and AICPA qualified equivalents who have demonstrated competency in areas such as:
Risk management for internal controls and fraud
Financial statement misrepresentation and dispute resolution including value assessment for mergers, acquisitions, and family law
Damages calculations, bankruptcy and insolvency
Forensic accounting subject matter and expert witness engagements
CFF credential holders understand that their skills are in global demand. From regional initiatives to international business operations, financial forensic services continue to be one of the fastest growing and needed areas of expertise in our economic world.
Pathways to the CFF® Credential
There are currently two pathways to earn the CFF credential. The Global Standard CFF Pathway, introduced in April 2021, replaced the legacy pathway with a simplified and globally aligned approach. The Experienced CFF Pathway, launched in January 2024, is designed for professionals with substantial expertise in financial forensics. The specific qualification requirements for each pathway are set forth in the table below.
| CFF Pathway | CFF Experience | CFF Education | CFF Examination |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Standard CFF Pathway | Minimum 1,000 forensic related business hours | 75 CPD hours within 5 years of application | Global Standard CFF Exam: 175 online MCQ in single 4-hour setting. |
| Experienced CFF Pathway* | Minimum 7 years & 10,000 forensic related business hours | 75 CPD hours within 5 years of application | Experienced CFF Exam: 95 online MCQ in single 2-hour setting. |
Which pathway should I take?
Use the following steps to guide your thinking as you approach the CFF credential.
Step 1: Review the Global CFF Content Specific Outline (CSO), also referred to as the Global CFF Body of Knowledge. The Global CFF CSO serves as a blueprint for CFF credential competencies and outlines the specialized forensic accounting knowledge and skills that serve as the foundation for both CFF credential pathways. CFF candidates are encouraged to review each topical section for familiarity then complete separate Continuing Professional Education (CPE) for any unfamiliar areas.
Step 2: Explore learning opportunities to address any unfamiliar topics identified from your review of the Global CFF CSO.
Resources available to support your learning include:
CFF Learning Pathway (72.5 CPE hours) – Provides a structured, self-paced learning experience aligned with the CFF Content Specification Outline. This pathway delivers comprehensive coverage of the knowledge and skills assessed on the CFF exam, helping you build a strong understanding of forensic accounting concepts, methodologies, and applications. It is designed to support effective exam preparation while also enhancing your ability to apply forensic accounting in professional practice.
CFF Exam Review Course (20 CPE hours) – Provides a focused, self-paced review designed specifically to help candidates prepare for the CFF Exam. Best suited for individuals with an existing foundation in forensic accounting, this course reinforces key concepts and supports exam-specific preparation. It is intended as a supplemental review tool and is most effective when paired with additional study and practical experience.
Fundamentals of Forensic Accounting Certificate Program (21.5 CPE hours) – Provides foundational training in financial forensics, building a solid understanding of key concepts and practical applications. This program covers areas such as the role and professional responsibilities of forensic accountants, the legal system, information gathering, discovery, reporting, and providing expert testimony. It is designed to equip you with essential knowledge to apply forensic accounting effectively in practice.
Step 3: When ready to test, visit your pathway’s CFF Exam Registration page to obtain a NTS for scheduling with Kryterion. Candidates may complete the digital CFF exam on-site at any Kryterion center worldwide or remotely with Kryterion security software.
Step 4: Apply online for the CFF credential after all education, exam, and experience requirements have been met. Simply visit the CFF Credential Home Page, select your CFF Credential pathway, and attest to your qualifications. Applicants must be active AICPA members in good standing to apply. Your CFF application is typically reviewed within 10-14 business days. Approved applicants will receive an AICPA Welcome Letter with guidelines on CFF Credential use and digital credential access details!