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 of part time study. 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
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Book A Course
Course Bundle Deal – Save £££
Book FSRE + AFA Fast Track at the same time to receive £100 off (Use promo code DIPFA100)
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?
The qualification is split into 2 units, knowledge of Unit 1 (FSRE) is assessed by a multiple-choice exam, Unit 2 AFA is assessed through a combination of coursework and written exam.
Our tutors will help you understand the course content and exam technique to enable you to pass.
Further details on how to register for and book your examinations are provided upon enrolment with Simply Academy.
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. Our 5 day FSRE workshop covers the whole syllabus in an easy to understand manner including exam technique. By the end of your AFA Coursework workshop you will have a firm idea of the basic content you want to include and a basic structure for the assignment. The AFA Exam is based upon a pre-released fact find, you will be taught how to write an appropriate suitability letter and how to fill out appropriate recommendations in the correct format.
If required, further tutor support can be accessed outside the classroom via our helpdesk.
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
With DipFA Fast Track, you are taught the full DipFA syllabus in a classroom setting, our experienced tutors, all experts in the field of financial services, not only instruct you on each of the units, but also on exam technique.
DipFA Fast Track is easy to follow, offers you the very best preparation for your tests and has excellent pass rates.
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9 DAYS SOLID TRAINING
FSRE = 5 Days
AFA1 Coursework = 2 Days
AFA2 Exam = 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*.