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CII AF5 Exam: Financial Planning Process

The CII’s AF5 exam is the final exam in the CII Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning. Candidates are sent a ‘fact find’ two weeks prior to their exam date. The candidate is then examined on key aspects of the financial planning process using the ‘fact find’. This exam has a nominal pass mark of 55% and the CII recommends that candidates study for around 150 hours.

The exam syllabus covers the relationship and responsibilities between adviser and client and the need for a planning brief; remuneration strategies; evaluation of client’s objectives; understanding of assumptions; understanding of a client’s financial status; understanding risk; options available to the client; how for form a suitable financial plan; ability to explain technical terms, product features and consequences of actions; importance of documenting changes; understanding client reviews.

Our learning resources

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Past Analyses from earlier exam sittings

Full detailed analysis of the fact-finds issued by the CII for earlier exams plus types of questions and examiner’s comments, exam technique, past paper analysis, generic areas, potential immediate and longer-term objectives, likely questions based on assumed objectives.

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Analysis for the October 2019 exam sitting

Full detailed analysis of the fact-find issued by the CII for the next exam sitting plus types of questions and examiner’s comments, exam technique, past paper analysis, generic areas, potential objectives, likely questions based on assumed objectives.

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Study Notes

Focus on the essential fact-find and recommendation processes for AF5 so that you can be sure of what is needed, and when – includes self-test questions.

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    Giovanni ManigliaGiovanni ManigliaWealth Management Adviser, Lloyds TSB, Bristol
  • "At the age of 20 I became the youngest person to hold the CII Diploma. I achieved this through hard work and the use of resources including those provided by Brand Financial Training; in particular the mock exams, study notes and the extremely helpful Calculation Workbooks. I'm now moving forward with the Advanced Diploma and continue to use Brand Financial Training's resources to aid my progression to Chartered Status. I certainly recommend them."
    Josh ButtenJosh ButtenMDG MK, Milton Keynes
  • “The hard work needed to get through exams is paying off. Many more advisers have been inspired to learn and work hard. My old boss told me once – we don’t sell widgets – we sell knowledge, trust and confidence. Knowledge is a key component - the trust equation is a whole different subject, but many more advisers have been on a learning journey that is sure to continue - and the stats prove it. Well done to everyone at Brand for supporting them on that journey."
    John ReynoldsJohn ReynoldsExpert Pensions, Edinburgh
  • "I have just passed my exam first time, once again, relying mainly on your study notes. The calculation workbook was very useful, helping me to understand and work through the calculations, as were the mock exams giving me practice for the exam itself. Thank you!"
    Paul JacksonPaul JacksonPartner, Professional Practice Services, Worcestershire
  • "I have used Brand Financial Training for many of my CF & R0 exams. Each module has done exactly what it days on the tin, and it helps you pass your exams. The material is very detailed, but not to the point it's overwhelming. It complements the CII coursework, but gives you a detailed understanding of the topics and puts your theory into practice. I have a 100% success rate so far, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the service to any of my colleagues or friends."
    Leanne TraceyLeanne TraceySenior Customer Consultant, Standard Life Direct
  • "I have always used Brand Financial Training for the papers and practice for the exams, and I would also say that probably due to Brand Financial I have passed every exam first time and also managed to achieve the Fellowship in good time (about 30 months from starting the diploma to finishing).  I have recommended you to all who wish to sit the exams in the future."
    Brian HemmingsBrian HemmingsChartered Financial Planner, GMB Portfolio Services Ltd, Edinburgh