Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA)
Level 4
DipFA Qualification & Training Course.
Achieve FCA-Recognised Adviser Status with DipFA
The Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA) is a trusted and FCA-approved Level 4 Financial Services qualification that provides you with the core knowledge and practical skills required to give regulated Financial Advice in the UK. Gaining the DipFA demonstrates your ability to operate professionally and ethically, advising clients on a wide range of retail financial products including pensions, investments, protection and more.
Whether you’re starting out in Financial Services or progressing from a background in Mortgage or Insurance Advice, the DipFA Level 4 qualification offers a clear, accessible pathway to becoming a qualified Financial Adviser. This well-established qualification is widely recognised by employers and advisory firms across the UK Financial Services sector.
The DipFA course is delivered in a structured and engaging format, combining tutor-led Live Webinar workshops with online study support. You’ll work through real-life case studies and assessments designed to develop both your technical understanding and your ability to provide clients with appropriate, compliant advice.
If you're ready to grow your career and take on the responsibilities of a professional Financial Adviser, our DipFA courses give you the qualification and confidence you need to succeed.
Qualification Overview:
The DipFA qualification is awarded by LIBF and consists of six modules.
*You may choose to sit modules 2-5 in any order.
Module 1
Financial Services Regulation and Ethics (FSRE)
FSRE introduces the financial services profession by exploring regulation, ethics, client communication skills and key financial products. It provides a solid foundation to help advisers meet their clients' needs effectively.
Assessment
Exams for each unit can be sat separately online (1 hour each)
Each unit is assessed by 25 MCQs and 3 case studies with 5 associated MCQ’s each.
The pass mark for each unit is 70%
Module 2
Taxation (AFAT)
This module provides a solid foundation in the UK financial services environment.
This module develops your understanding of the UK taxation system enabling you to assess the tax treatment of individuals and trusts when providing investment advice.
Assessment
90 minute multiple-choice exam split into two units.
Each unit includes 20 questions and two case studies with 5 questions each.
Pass mark: 70%
Module 3
Investments (AFAI)
Explore the economic impact of investments, key investment products, and core investment theories equipping you to support clients in achieving their financial objectives.
Assessment
90 minute multiple-choice exam split into two units.
Each unit includes 20 questions and two case studies with 5 questions each.
Pass mark: 70%
Module 4
Protection (AFAP)
Gain a clear understanding of the importance of financial protection, including state benefits and protection policies. Learn how to identify clients' protection needs and recommend suitable solutions aligned with their priorities.
Assessment
90 minute multiple-choice exam split into two units.
Each unit includes 20 questions and two case studies with 5 questions each.
Pass mark: 70%
Module 5
Retirement Planning (AFAR)
Develop an understanding of retirement planning, covering state pensions and tax considerations enabling you to confidently advise clients on their retirement options.
Assessment
90 minute multiple-choice exam split into two units.
Each unit includes 20 questions and two case studies with 5 questions each.
Pass mark: 70%
Module 6
Coursework (AFAC)
This coursework module enhances your ability to deliver effective financial planning by gathering and analysing client information. You’ll apply knowledge from earlier modules to design and communicate personalised advice solutions.
Assessment
Coursework with a pre-released fact find and an essay response.
Most students complete their Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA) qualification within 9 months of part time study.
+ Course & Exam FeesModule one
Financial Services Regulation and Ethics (FSRE)
Unit 1: Regulation legislation and key parties
Unit 2: Advisers, clients and ethics
3 Days
3 Days
£325+VAT
£325+VAT
£310
Unit 1: Regulation legislation and key parties
Duration: 3 Days
Course Fee: £325+VAT
Unit 2: Advisers, clients and ethics
Duration: 3 Days
Course Fee: £325+VAT
Exam Fee: £310
Module two
Taxation (AFAT)
2 Days
£250+VAT
£260
Module two
Taxation (AFAT)
Duration: 2 Days
Course Fee: £250+VAT
Exam Fee: £260
Module three
Investments (AFAI)
3 Days
£375+VAT
£260
Module three
Investments (AFAI)
Duration: 3 Days
Course Fee: £375+VAT
Exam Fee: £260
Module four
Protection (AFAP)
2 Days
£250+VAT
£260
Module four
Protection (AFAP)
Duration: 2 Days
Course Fee: £250+VAT
Exam Fee: £260
Module five
Retirement Planning (AFAR)
3 Days
£375+VAT
£260
Module five
Retirement Planning (AFAR)
Duration: 3 Days
Course Fee: £375+VAT
Exam Fee: £260
Module six
Coursework (AFAC)
Access to support materials designed to offer support when drafting assignment.
£125+VAT
£200
Module six
Coursework (AFAC)
Duration: Access to support materials designed to offer support when drafting assignment.
Course Fee: £125+VAT
Exam Fee: £200
EXAM BUNDLE DEAL: Save £150 when registering for all six exams at the same time.
Customer Reviews
We use Coursecheck to collect feedback from everyone we train, so you can see for yourself what customers say about us.
Indravadan P | 13 October 2025
David has lot to offer and is incredibly talented. Thoroughly enjoyed the course and hope to see David in CeMap 2&3.
Ian D | 13 October 2025
Terry was a brilliant teacher, providing us with all the knowledge required by making it interesting and enjoyable.
Holly B | 28 September 2025
I booked this course as a career changer new to the industry in hope that it would suitably and swiftly prepare me to undertake my CeMAP 1 exam. The trainer (Luke) was light hearted and personable, explained all aspects very clearly and covered all required information in a manageable way. Having no former experience aside of this course I took my ...
Why Study with us?
Simply Academy is among a select few training organisations worldwide that hold Trusted Partner Status, the highest accolade awarded by LIBF, the awarding body of the DipFA qualification. Achieving this status requires an organisation to demonstrate that they provide the highest quality of training and customer service within the Financial Services sector.
Confidence
Over 25,000 people have studied with us.
Knowledge
Our training consultants are amongst the most knowledgeable in the industry.
Trust
We are government backed and approved by professional institutions.
Book a Course
In order to achieve your DipFA qualification you must pass all six modules. You may choose to sit modules 2 to 5 in any order.
Course Bundle Deal
Get 10% off when you book all six modules at the same time (use code DIPFA10%)
Frequently asked questions
What is DipFA?
DipFA (Diploma for Financial Advisers) is a Level 4 qualification awarded by LIBF. It is recognised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) as meeting the minimum requirements for advising on retail investment products in the UK.
The DipFA qualification equips aspiring Financial Advisers with essential knowledge in areas such as regulation, ethics, personal taxation, financial protection, pensions, and investments. On completion, qualified advisers are able to provide well-rounded, compliant advice across a wide range of financial planning areas.
How long does DipFA take?
The updated DipFA course typically takes 9 months to complete, depending on your study pace and chosen training provider. The programme now consists of six modules, with five assessed through multiple-choice exams and the final module assessed via coursework.
This modular structure allows learners to build knowledge progressively and study flexibly alongside work or other commitments. With structured support from training providers such as Simply Academy, many learners are able to complete one module per month and progress confidently towards becoming a qualified Financial Adviser.
What are the career prospects after completing the DipFA?
Achieving the DipFA qualification opens up a range of career opportunities within the UK Financial Advice sector. You’ll be qualified to offer regulated advice on investments, pensions, protection, and other financial products. Many DipFA graduates go on to work in independent financial advice firms, banks, and wealth management companies or set up their own advisory practices.
DipFA also forms a foundation for further development, including specialist qualifications in areas like mortgage advice, equity release, pension transfers, or tax planning.
What’s the difference between DipFA and DipPFS?
DipFA and DipPFS are both respected, FCA-recognised qualifications that allow you to legally provide financial advice in the UK.
DipFA, awarded by LIBF , follows a clear six-module structure with short multiple-choice exams and a final practical coursework assignment. DipPFS, awarded by the CII, also has six modules, each with its own exam. Both qualifications cover essential topics like regulation, pensions, investments, tax, and protection.
The right choice often comes down to your preferred assessment style or which awarding body you already hold qualifications with. Staying with the same awarding body can offer continuity and further opportunities for progression.
Why choose to study DipFA with Simply Academy?
Choosing to study DipFA with Simply Academy offers several advantages. Simply Academy is a reputable training provider known for its comprehensive and high-quality study materials, experienced instructors, and supportive learning environment. Our commitment to student success is evident in our high pass rates and excellent student support, which includes access to tutors, practice exams, and study resources. By choosing Simply Academy for DipFA, you can benefit from a trusted platform that enhances your chances of successfully completing the qualification and advancing your career in financial advice.
