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What is DipPFS?
DipPFScomprises unit options from the CII Personal Finance qualifications framework, providing a total of 100 credits (Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning) or 140 credits (Diploma in Financial Planning) on successful completion and there are 37 units to choose from.
Important note – AF2 and J03 will be withdrawn after the 2020-2021 syllabus, with the final assessment opportunity in the Q2 2021 exam session. Any credits already achieved from these units will continue to count towards the completion requirements of the Diploma in Financial Planning and the Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning after the unit’s withdrawal.
Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning (100 credits)
How long does it take to get?
The CII website details “Specific study time guidelines are provided for each unit on its webpage and in the CII qualifications brochure. The notional Ofqual ‘Total Qualification Time’ for this qualification is 370 hours. This represents the time a student might typically take to complete the qualification.”
Where do you sit the exam?
Depending on the assessment style for each unit you will be sitting the unit in different locations
R01 to R05 and R07- Multiple Choice Question Exam only “MCQ exams are available weekly at UK and non-UK online exam centres or via remote invigilation.”
R06 – Is tested four times-yearly, at UK and non-UK PSI exam centres.
GR1 – Multiple Choice Question Exam only “MCQ exams are available weekly at UK and non-UK online exam centres or via remote invigilation.”
J02 to J07 – Written Exam only “remote invigilation exams”
J09 – Coursework only
J10 & J12 – Multiple Choice Question Exam only “MCQ exams are available weekly at UK and non-UK online exam centres or via remote invigilation.”
How much does it cost?
The total cost for R01 through to R06 is:
Member cost = £1505.26
Non-member cost = £1,953.54
Membership costs vary
Diploma in Financial Planning (140 credits)
How long does it take to get?
The CII website details “Specific study time guidelines are provided for each unit on its webpage and in the CII qualifications brochure. The notional Ofqual ‘Total Qualification Time’ for this qualification is 570 hours. This represents the time a student might typically take to complete the qualification by the shortest combination of units. The number of hours may increase dependent on the units chosen, plus further study time for any units required to meet the additional completion requirements.”
How much does it cost?
As this can massively vary depending on what modules you would like to take, we would suggest to look at the completion requirements and create your own personal cost.
What is the common type of exam style?
The CII employ various different methods of testing for their qualifications which they detail on their website, these include:
Tips for studying DipPFS?
Break down the study – A great idea would be to leverage the fact that DipPFS comprises of multiple units which means you are able to break down and plan your study around your personal life. Something that you cannot achieve in the same way if you are taking the DipFA qualifications. In order to effectively cover all of the units, it may be a good idea to create a personal schedule. This schedule can and should be inclusive of when you plan to step into a new role, personal commitments, credit weighting of certain units and anything else that impacts you deem important.
Know your learner style: In 2019 we wrote a blog titled “What type of learner are you?” which provided readers with a questionnaire that aimed to give some insight into what their learner style could be and what this means for them. Knowing your learner style will help you study more effectively and make the overall experience far more palatable.
Focus on the end goal: When taking DipPFS your goal is surely to become a Paraplanner or Financial Advisor. Therefore, your ultimate goal should be to become a quality Paraplanner or Financial Advisor instead of just obtaining DipFA. Our advice; read around the industry and outside of the required material. Although not a tip per se it is a tip that hopefully helps shift your mindset and help you pro
Benefits of studying DipPFS
- Flexible in that you can choose what modules you want to do whether that is the 100 or 140 credit option
- You can use the DipPFS designation to demonstrate your knowledge and technical capability, and your ongoing commitment to professional development
- EFA designation, through their mutual recognition agreement with the European Financial Planning Association
- Discounts on a range of learning and development services including study and revision materials and exam entry
- Access to key market information through their library of financial planning publications, reports and documents
- Membership to a PFS region and CII local institute providing local CPD events, training and networking opportunities
- CPD scheme to keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date
- Market news and updates from their membership magazine, Personal Finance Professional
- Access to a range of high street and online discounts through Perks, their affinity benefits scheme
Conclusion
DipPFS is one of the go-to qualifications when looking to start a career as a Financial Advisor. When you pass, make sure you know what your next steps are. As a business, we have covered the key things likeWriting your CV for financial services,Finding a new jobandHow to transition your careerwhich could be especially useful if you are becoming a Financial Advisor for the first time.
View ourFinancial Advisor jobsnow or call / email us to discuss your circ*mstances and what roles could be suitable for you free of charge at:
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