DO YOU KNOW WHAT A CFRE IS?

The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential provides you with a recognizable demonstration of your personal and professional achievement in fundraising.

Certification process

The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the standards set for core knowledge and skills required of fundraising executives after five years of experience. This practice-based designation requires demonstration of having met these standards through both an application and a written examination.

Application

All candidates must complete a written application that works on a point system. A minimum number of points in each of four areas must be documented. Those areas include: Professional Practice; Education; Performance; and Service.

Examination

Candidates must achieve the passing score on a standardized written examination consisting of 225 multiple-choice questions that cover the following core knowledge areas: Prospect Identification, Solicitation, Donor Relations, Volunteerism, Management, and Stewardship. Exams are given at various locations around North American and Australia throughout the year. Three exam forms are available: one for U.S., one for Canadian residents, and one for residents of Australia.

Accountability standards

Upon making application to the program, candidates agree to adhere to the Donor Bill of Rights and the CFRE Program’s Accountability Standards, designed to promote integrity and ethical behavior of fundraising executives.

Re-certification

Because fundraising is a dynamic field and because certification attests to a professional’s competency, certification is awarded for a three-year period. A new application updating your Professional Practice, Education, Performance, and Service is required in order to continue to be certified.