Entry Level
Level 4 – Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA®)
Overview
The DipFA is a leading qualification in the financial world. It is FCA approved and prepares you with the skills to offer advice on retail investment. You are not only tutored in relevant theory, but the practical use of new knowledge.
Designed specifically for those entering the industry you could complete the whole programme within just nine months. The course is easy to follow, practical and leaves you confident in your role as a financial adviser.
Key points
- The Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA) is an RQF level 4 qualification accredited by Ofqual and awarded by the London Institute of Banking & Finance.
- This financial adviser course is split between 2 units.
- Register for unit 1 throughout the year and choose from a selection of start dates for unit 2.
- Knowledge of unit 1 is assessed by a multiple-choice exam, unit 2 is assessed through a combination of coursework and written exam.
- Successful completion allows you to add the designation ‘DipFA’ after your name and apply for your Statement of Professional Standing (SPS).
Qualification
The DipFA is a level 4 qualification registered with Ofqual in the Regulated Qualifications Framework and consists of two units.
| Units | Learning Outcomes | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Unit 1 – Financial Services Regulation Ethics (FSRE) |
The environment of the financial services industry. Key components and interrelationships of the financial system. Principles of the regulatory framework and the implications for the financial advice process. The importance of the concept of risks relate to institutions and individuals’ legal concepts and interplay between regulation and legislation. The FCA’s approach to ethical and unethical behaviours and the Code of Ethics. |
2-hour objective exam comprising 90 multiple-choice questions and 2 case studies with 5 linked multiple-choice questions. |
| Unit 2 – Advanced Financial Advice (AFA) |
Products services and legislation that inform the financial planning and advice process. Principles theories and interrelationships of investment retirement planning and protection. The importance of consumer-oriented communication and ethical behaviours. |
Assessed through a combination of coursework and written exam: Coursework comprises of a written assignment and short answer questions. 3-hour typed exam based on pre-released fact find available 6 weeks prior to exam. |
Progression
At Simply Academy we offer a range of courses and routes for career progression.
The Certificate in Mortgage Advice & Practice (CeMAP) is an industry leading qualification, perfect if you aim to give mortgage advice alongside retail investments.
Another route for progression is the Certificate in Regulated Equity Release (CeRER), which equips you with the authority to advise on equity release products.
Study Options
Customer Reviews
We use Coursecheck to collect feedback from everyone we train, so you can see for yourself what our customers say about us.
Book A Course
Course Bundle Deal – Save £££
Book FSRE + AFA Fast Track at the same time to receive £175 off (Use promo code DIPFA175)
Important Notice: Exam Registrations Fees*
| Full qualification registration (FSRE + AFA) | £890 (VAT exempt) |
|---|---|
| Unit 1 Financial Services Regulation and Ethics (FSRE) only | £330 (VAT exempt) |
| Unit 2 Advanced Financial Advice (AFA) only | £620 (VAT exempt) |
*Only course fees are paid to Simply Academy. You will be instructed on how to register for and book an examination upon enrolment.
Why Choose Us?
Specialists in Financial Education and Apprenticeships
Passion
We provide exceptional learning, empowering our students to reach their potential
Confidence
Our carefully selected training consultants are amongst the most knowledgeable in their fields
Knowledge
We set the standards, over 15,000 people have studied with Simply
Trust
We are approved by professional institutions and work with the world’s top banks
Clear Methods, Clear Results
Trusted, awarded and accredited
Fully accredited to ensure we provide the highest possible standards in learning
FAQs
What is the DipFA qualification?
The Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA) is an FCA approved qualification perfect for those wishing to start a career in financial advice. Throughout the course you will learn the skills and knowledge required to offer professional advice on retail investment. The course is thorough, interesting and a very popular route into the industry.
Once you successfully complete your DipFA exams you will have everything you need to begin your new career.
How and where do I sit my DipFA examinations?
You will be required to sit two DipFA exams. Unit 1 is assessed by a single, two hour multiple choice exam. Unit 2 is assessed by a combination of coursework and a three hour typed exam based on a pre released fact find.
You will be instructed on how to register for and book your examinations upon enrolment onto a DipFA training course. You can sit your exams at one of the conveniently located centres which can be found around the country.
What is included in my DipFA Course?
DipFA training is classroom based and you will be taught as part of a small group. Your course fees cover expert tuition by an experienced trainer and comprehensive learning materials. These materials are useful while completing your DipFA training but also as a point of reference once you qualify.
Out of the classroom students may login an online study portal were they may access additional study support alongside a tutor help desk.
Where are DipFA training centres located?
Your DipFA training will be completed within a classroom at one of our modern, fully equipped training facilities. We offer DipFA courses in Birmingham, Manchester and London, and all of these centres are easy to find, with excellent transport links.
DipFA® Fast Track
The flexible Fast Track study option is a highly effective way to learn the DipFA course content and prepare for your exams.
Upon enrolment you are provided with access to Simply Academy’s study portal where you may access bespoke training materials, guides and further support via an online helpdesk.
Once you enter the classroom environment, you’ll benefit from the expert tuition of knowledgeable tutors who are on hand to answer any questions.
You could complete your DipFA qualification within just nine months!
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9 DAYS SOLID TRAINING
FSRE = 5 Days
AFA Part 1 = 2 Days
AFA Part 2 = 2 Days
SMALL CLASS SIZES
We purposefully keep our class sizes small. This ensures that you are given sufficient attention in an informal teaching atmosphere, with plenty of time to ask questions.
EXPERIENCED TUTORS
Our carefully selected tutors are all fully qualified and are amongst the most knowledgeable in their field. They are not only excellent teachers but come with years of their own practical experience. DipFA students have the option to contact their tutor between course dates should they require any additional support.
FULL STUDY TRAINING MATERIALS
You will be given full, high quality training materials to make learning as simple as possible. These materials also make excellent points of reference once you have finished the course and want to re-visit any technical or regulatory areas.
NATIONWIDE TRAINING CENTRES
Birmingham – London – Manchester
All our venues are conveniently placed and easily accessible by both road and public transport. We know that to learn effectively, the environment must be right. Therefore, we provide exclusive and modern training rooms fitted with air conditioning and with plenty of natural light.
PASS ASSURANCE SCHEME
We are so confident that our courses offer everything you need to succeed, that we back your enrolment with our Pass Assurance Scheme. If you don’t pass your exam the first time around, you are welcome to attend the same course again completely free of charge*.