CFP Board degree rule questioned
The CFP Board is reportedly considering waiving the bachelor’s‑degree requirement for financial planners — a change that could broaden entry into the profession and expand access to planning services (kitces.com). Advocates argue this would make advice more widely available; firms should watch certification standards closely. (kitces.com).
CFP Board has formalized a new Academic Pathways & Standards Working Group (APSWG) to examine its undergraduate‑degree eligibility rules, according to a March 24 CFP Board release. (morningstar.com)) The APSWG was first signaled when CFP Board approved updates to its Competency Standards on January 27, 2026. (cfp.net)) CFP Board published the APSWG membership, which includes Anthony Battle, Jack Brod, Kamila Elliott, Brett Esselburn, Bonnie Harper, Jason Kelly, Phuong Luong, Martin Schamis, Denise Streeter and Demetra Sullivan. (morningstar.com)) The Board said any recommendation from the working group will go to its Board of Directors and that proposed changes will be put out for public comment, with no final decision expected in 2026. (morningstar.com)) Citywire and other trade outlets report the CFP Board does not expect to make a final decision until early 2027, giving advocates and firms time to submit feedback during the comment period. (citywire.com)) K. Dane Snowden, who became CFP Board CEO effective March 16, 2026, framed the review as part of maintaining the CFP® marks’ credibility in statements accompanying the working‑group announcement. (cfp.net)) Separately, CFP Board’s January competency update added the CIMA® credential to an Accelerated Path effective Q2 2026, while continuing to require bachelor’s degrees, the Capstone Course, experience, the CFP® exam and ethics checks for those candidates. (cfp.net))
