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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, potential immediate and longer-term objectives, likely questions based on assumed objectives.

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Analysis for the October 2018 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, potential objectives, likely questions based on assumed objectives.

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Study Notes

Your condensed and more focused take on the fact-find and recommendation processes so that you can be sure of what is needed, and when – includes self-test questions.

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  • "Brand Financial Training's great material was easy to use and really helped me get through some areas to get the Diploma. I'll use them next time for future exams."
    Giovanni ManigliaGiovanni ManigliaWealth Management Adviser, Lloyds TSB, Bristol
  • “After a long lay off due to illness I decided to complete my Diploma. Brand Financial Training supported my studies. Their study material is excellent, so easy to read and presented in a logical format. The analysis for R06 was received promptly along with study tips and was invaluable. Test papers for R01 again were just the job. I really appreciated the personal attention received from Catriona, with suggestions for a variety of learning resources. All reasonably priced. Many thanks. I will be doing Level 6 with Brand Financial Training.”
    Philip DoddPhilip DoddChester
  • “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've used your resources for 3 exams so far and have always passed first time.  I find these questions help to highlight those areas in which I am weak and which may need further study.  I also find that questions in the exam are phrased in a way that I would not normally use, and that reading mock questions helps me to be aware of and alert to these.  Your mock papers were invaluable in helping me to prepare for my exams."
    John BisattJohn BisattAdviser, Palmer Lane, Cardiff
  • "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 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