Certification: Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE)

225 Reinekers Lane, Suite 625, Alexandria, VA 22314

The Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) is the baseline designation for a unified credentialing program designed specifically for fundraising executives. This program is administered by the independent CFRE Professional Certification Board which consists of representatives from the participating partner organizations. At present, these include AHP, the Association of Lutheran Development Executives (ALDE), the National Catholic Development Conference (NCDC), the National Council for Resource Development (NCRD), and the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). It was created to provide a single, credible industry-wide process for identifying practitioners who meet the standards for the fundraising profession. The CFRE program is open to all individuals meeting the eligibility requirements, regardless of affiliation with a professional association.

More than two years of education or training after high school required?
Yes
More than two years of work experience required?
Yes
Oral or Written Exam Required?
Yes
Renewal Required?
Every 3 Year(s)
Renew through Continuing Educational Units(CEU)?
Yes
Renew through Re-Examination?
Yes
Renew through Continuing Professional Development(CPD)?
Yes
Does applicant have choice of at least two options from above for renewal (CEU, CPD, or exam)?
Yes

Advanced

The certification has an education level of an Associates of Arts or Associates of Sciences degree or higher and has a work experience requirement of more than 2 years, or requires obtaining a ‘core’ level certification from the same organization.

  • This certification is considered in demand.
  • This certification is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).