Mapping your gaps

Step 1: Selecting a gap-fill template

You can use one of the IFP templates or one provided by any other professional body or the FSA.  The template can be based on either the draft exam standards, for example, the PFS/CII or the final exam standards.  The IFP has templates based on both.  Both the draft and final exam standards cover the same ground but the final standards are much more detailed and consequently contains more learning outcomes.

If you have a number of exams with one professional body, it may be simplest to use that professional body’s template or recording system.

Step 2: Identifying your gaps

Having selected your gap-fill template, the next step is to ‘map’ your transitional and other qualifications against each of the learning outcomes within the new exam standards to identify your gaps.

The IFP has mapped the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERCM certification, Fellowship and Certificate in Paraplanning (CPP) against the new standards. The CPP is not a transitional qualification but can be used to fill relevant gaps. Whilst the CFPCM Certification and Fellowship syllabi do not meet the new exam standards in full, they do cover many of the standards. The shaded learning outcomes in the IFP templates are those that meet the new standards.

Most other professional bodies have mapped their own qualifications and this mapping is usually available to members on the professional body’s website. If you are no longer a member of the professional body you may not have access to the information online and will need to request this information in the first instance.

Step 3: Filling your gaps

Once you have identified your gaps, you will need to complete all of them by the end of 2012. You can fill your remaining gaps by using appropriate CPD and/or additional examinations, if preferred.