CFRE Certification

Commit. Excel. Lead. Be a CFRE.

The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) certification is an internationally recognized, voluntary credential that supports a fundraiser's professional growth and commitment to the philanthropic sector.

The path to CFRE certification is a rigorous but rewarding process that signifies your trusted leadership in ethical fundraising. 

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Certification Requirements

Whether you're earning CFRE certification for the first time or recertifying, you must meet requirements in three categories:

Education includes continuing education on fundraising topics (i.e., webinars, conferences), academic degrees, teaching fundraising topics, authoring on fundraising topics, and service learning through volunteer experiences.

  • Initial certification applicants - 80 points (within the past 5 years) required 
  • Recertification applicants - 45 points (within the past 3 years) required

Professional Practice includes your months of employment as a professional fundraiser.

  • Initial certification applicants - 36 points (within the past 5 years) required 
  • Recertification applicants - 30 points (within the past 3 years) required

Professional Performance includes actual funds raised and/or communications and management projects as a professional fundraiser. 

  • Initial certification applicants - 55 points (within the past 5 years) required 
  • Recertification applicants - 40 points (within the past 3 years) required

Ethics and Accountability

All holders of the CFRE credential also pledge to abide by

6 Reasons to Be a CFRE

  • Advance your career
  • Elevate your credibility
  • Boost your skills and knowledge
  • Stay current on industry trends
  • Expand your global network
  • Show your dedication to philanthropy

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Steps to CFRE Certification

Apply

Submit your initial certification application for approval after meeting the Education, Professional Practice, and Professional Performance points requirements.

Initial Certification Details

Pass the CFRE Exam

Once approved, sit for the CFRE Exam, which assesses your fundraising knowledge through six Knowledge Domains.

Exam Details

Recertify

Every three years, submit your recertification application after meeting Education, Professional Practice, and Professional Performance points requirements.

Recertification Details

We're Here to Help

Employer Support

Use our talking points and email template to get support from your employer.

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Connect with Candidates

Check out our forum on CFRE Central to connect with others who are at various stages on their path to CFRE certification.

Connect with Others

Mentorship

Chat with a CFRE Ambassador who can offer real-world advice, help you stay motivated, and guide you on your path to CFRE certification.

Chat with an Ambassador

Certification Policies

CFRE International's policies and procedures govern the administration of the CFRE certification program.

View the Policies