IFP rolls out paraplanning qualification

The Institute of Financial Planning (IFP) has officially launched its Certificate in Paraplanning, which is set at QCF Level 4.

It says the qualification will give recognition to the role and differentiate successful candidates from other paraplanners carrying out a more administrative function.

The certificate will be set at QCF level 4 and awarded to candidates who have successfully passed the Principles of Financial Planning examination.

One section of the examination will be multiple-choice, with the remainder being case study based with candidates being required to produce highly focussed answers including calculations and recommendations.

Candidates can take the exam at locations across the UK, with the first sittings taking place in November 2010.

It has been developed by IFP over the past couple of years with support from Scottish Widows and consultation with financial planners.

Nick Cann, CEO of IFP, says:  “For me this new qualification is the most important development yet within the financial planning profession.

"By working with the core of the financial planning community, IFP has defined and set out the paraplanner role and requirements, and can now offer appropriate testing for those individuals who fulfil this important role. ”

A new e-learning programme is available to candidates studying for the examination, as well as a two day paraplanning workshop, which will help candidates to focus on the standards required to pass the examination.

For full details of the examination as well as the training options developed by IFP to support candidates; visit www.financialplanning.org.uk