Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional® (FPQP®): What It Means and Why It Matters

A Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional® (FPQP®) is a certification from the College for Financial Planning® (a Kaplan company), designed to validate foundational knowledge in personal financial planning. The curriculum spans areas such as retirement, tax, investments, insurance, and estate planning—typically through about 100–144 hours of self-paced study followed by a 75-question closed-book exam with a 70% passing score. This designation signals to clients and employers that the holder possesses credible, practical expertise and operates under ethical and professional standards.

Why the FPQP® designation matters to consumers

• Broader expertise than an average paraplanner: Unlike many paraplanners, FPQP® designees have formal, comprehensive certification.
• Practical financial knowledge: Covers the five core financial planning disciplines: insurance, investments, retirement, tax, and estate.
• Demonstrated ethical standards and ongoing learning: Holders commit to a code of professional conduct, biennial renewal fees (~$95), and 16 continuing education hours every two years.

How do financial paraplanners earn the FPQP® designation?

1. No prerequisites required: Anyone can enroll.
2. Structured, self-paced training: Includes 10 course modules covering essential financial planning topics.
3. Final closed-book exam: 75 questions over 3 hours, with a required 70% passing score and two attempts allowed.
4. Ongoing certification requirements: Biennial renewal (fee + 16 CE hours) and adherence to ethical standards.

Who is the FPQP® meant for?

The designation is perfect for paraplanners, support staff, or entry-level professionals looking to deepen their financial planning knowledge. It equips them to support advisors more effectively and potentially interact with clients—though direct client advising remains under supervision.

Summary

The FPQP® designation marks a built-in foundation in financial planning fundamentals, making paraplanners and support staff more competent and credible. With structured study, formal testing, and ethical expectations, FPQP® holders can effectively contribute to the client-facing work of financial teams while pursuing further credentials.

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Governing Body

College for Financial Planning® (a Kaplan Company) administers the FPQP® certification, renewal, exam, and ethical standards.

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FAQs

What does FPQP® stand for?
FPQP® stands for Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional®—reflecting proficiency in financial planning support.

Is the FPQP® recognized by regulators?
FINRA lists FPQP® as a current credential from the College for Financial Planning®, though it does not endorse any credentials.

How long does FPQP® training take?
Typically 100–144 hours of self-study over up to 120 days.

How much does it cost?
Enrollment usually costs around $1,300–$1,350, including study materials and exam attempts.

Can FPQP® holders give financial advice?
They support the planning process but typically do not provide formal advice; they work under advisor supervision.