Professional Certifications

We’ll help you earn your CFRE

If earning your CFRE has been on your professional goals list, this could be the time to make it happen.

Our next CFRE Study Group is forming now, and we’re looking for a minimum of 10 fundraisers who are ready to take the next step toward certification.

Preparing for the CFRE exam is a significant commitment—but you don’t have to do it alone. The study group provides a structured way to prepare, stay accountable, share knowledge with fellow fundraisers, and build confidence along the way.

Why join the study group?

  • Structure: A study plan and regular group sessions
  • Community: Learn alongside other fundraising professionals working toward the same goal
  • Accountability: The program structure helps you stay on track
  • Confidence: Review the key areas covered by the CFRE exam and learn from the experience and perspectives of your peers
  • Success rate: our chapter-led CFRE Study Group has a 100% exam pass rate among participants

Study group details:

  • Meet every 3rd Wednesday from 12-1pm at Perley Health (1750 Russell Road)
  • Meetings are in-person, no virtual option
  • Start date: October 21, 2026
  • Exam write date: June 2027
Join the CFRE Study Group

Want to learn more before you commit?

We’ve recorded a webinar that covers everything you need to know including what to expect and how the group works. You’ll learn:

  • Who should join this study group
  • How the group is structured
  • When it starts and when you write your exam
  • What time commitment is expected from each participant

What is the CFRE?

The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential demonstrates an individual’s mastery of the standards set for core knowledge and skills required of fundraising executives after three years of experience. This practice-based designation requires demonstration of having met these standards through both an application and a written examination. The CFRE Program is governed by the CFRE Professional Certification Board, and administered in cooperation with leading philanthropic associations including the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy (AHP), and the Canadian Association of Gift Planners/Association Canadienne des Professionnels en dons Planifiés (CAGP/ACPDP).

What is the ACFRE?

The Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive Program is administered by the ACFRE Professional Certification Board. Certification as ACFRE requires successful completion of four stages of the process, which must be completed sequentially: a written application, a written examination, a portfolio review, and an oral peer review. Those interested in pursuing an ACFRE certification must meet the following criteria:

  • Have at least 10 years of experience in professional fundraising.
  • Currently have or hope to attain a leadership or managerial role in philanthropy.
  • Want to expand their knowledge and understanding of fundraising history, philosophy, and theory beyond a basic level, and/or
  • Have identified the ACFRE designation as a career objective.