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 April 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, 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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Leanne TraceySenior Customer Consultant, Standard Life Direct - “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 ReynoldsExpert Pensions, Edinburgh - “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 DoddChester
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