Certified Financial Education Instructor® (CFEI®)

The Leading Financial Literacy Certification for Individuals Teaching Personal Finance in ANZ

The credential that elevates your teaching – and amplifies your impact.

The CFEI® isn’t just another certification. It’s a launchpad. It equips you with the confidence, credibility, and classroom-tested tools to teach personal finance in a way that truly changes lives. Whether you’re building a new program or strengthening an existing one, the CFEI® gives you the frameworks to deliver measurable, meaningful results.

More than 6,000 graduates have completed over 300,000 hours of professional development through this program – making CFEI® the most widely recognized and trusted standard for personal finance educators nationwide. Alumni consistently report stronger learner outcomes, greater enjoyment in teaching, and expanded opportunities to scale their work.

Join a growing network of CFEIs across your region who are raising the bar for financial education.

Graduates walk away with structured instructional frameworks, evaluation toolkits, a verified digital credential, and the confidence to deliver outcomes that matter. With more than 6,000 certified instructors, over 300,000 hours of professional development, and the only nationally recognized standards for personal finance educators, CFEI® is the trusted choice for organizations that expect rigor, accountability, and results.

Join a growing community of CFEIs across the ANZ region who report greater satisfaction in teaching, stronger learner progress, and expanded opportunities to scale their work.

Certification Tour, Graduate Features, & Bonus Presentation Resources

  • CFEI® Tour: See how the program works and explore the journey step by step.

  • Graduate Features: Hear real stories from instructors making an impact.

  • Bonus Resources: Get exclusive teaching tools to elevate your financial education programs.

This is more than a course – it’s your opportunity to join a global network of educators committed to empowering individuals and communities with practical, life-changing financial skills.

By accessing the NFEC’s material, you agree to comply with the full terms.

Join Over 5,000 Enrolled CFEI® Champions Providing Others Qualified Financial Education

Certification Tour, Graduate Features, & Bonus Presentation Resources

  • CFEI® Tour: See how the program works and explore the journey step by step.

  • Graduate Features: Hear real stories from instructors making an impact.

  • Bonus Resources: Get exclusive teaching tools to elevate your financial education programs.

This is more than a course – it’s your opportunity to join a global network of educators committed to empowering individuals and communities with practical, life-changing financial skills.

By accessing the NFEC’s material, you agree to comply with the full terms.

Join Over 5,000 Enrolled CFEI® Champions Providing Others Qualified Financial Education

Who the CFEI® Serves

All Industries Welcome

If you help people make better financial decisions, you belong here.

Educators, entrepreneurs, financial professionals, content creators, nonprofit leaders, HR and benefits teams, community organizers, and volunteers all use the CFEI® to teach with greater clarity and impact.

Explore how this training applies to your industry.

All Education Modes Welcome

From classrooms to webinars, from small workshops to large-scale online programs – the CFEI® adapts to your format.

Use it for live workshops, employer programs, community initiatives, or digital learning.

All Experience Levels Welcome

Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned educator, the CFEI® gives you a clear path to teach personal finance with measurable success.

If you’re curious about where you fit, explore beginner pathways or advanced educator development.

Topics & Requirements

The CFEI® curriculum blends academic rigor with real-world practicality. Graduates leave with the skills to motivate, engage, and guide learners of all ages toward positive financial action.

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Core Topics Covered

Foundations of Financial Education Practice

Clarify your mission, understand your role as an educator, and learn how to advocate for financial literacy across communities and life stages.

Financial Psychology & Behavioral Finance

Explore the emotional, cultural, and cognitive factors that shape financial behavior – and learn how to help people overcome them.

Educational Philosophies & Teaching Methodologies

Apply proven learning theories to engage diverse audiences and build lasting financial capability.

Personal Finance Subject Matter

Master the core pillars of financial literacy: budgeting, saving, credit, debt, income, account management, and foundational investing.

The exam focuses on universal, non-country-specific concepts.

Instructional Design & Lesson Planning

Use the Discovery → Define → Design process to build high-impact programs aligned with learner needs and measurable outcomes.

Program Execution & Learner Experience

Learn to deliver sessions with confidence – online or in person – while creating safe, engaging learning environments.

Professional Responsibilities & Educator Standards

Build trust and credibility through ethical practice, strong recordkeeping, and ongoing professional development.

The CFEI® program is designed to be flexible, accessible, and supportive.

Graduation Requirements

The CFEI® program is designed to be flexible, accessible, and supportive – so anyone with a passion for financial education can succeed.

  • Prerequisites & Technical Requirements
    No prior experience required. Learners must be 13+ with basic computer and internet access.

  • Self-Paced Learning
    The pilot program tracks real learner time-on-task. Estimated completion: ~80 hours, though the time may vary.

  • Online Delivery
    Learn through videos, activities, workbooks, and lessons – plus optional live Friday sessions.

  • Final Exam & Knowledge Checks
    Score 80%+ on the final exam and all chapter checks to pass. Retakes and support are available.

  • Accessibility & Accommodations
    Reasonable accommodations are available, with advance notice recommended.

  • Certification & Recognition
    Earn the official CFEI® certification logo and CEU letter.

  • Renewal
    Renew every three years with a short exam or by verifying your teaching practice.

Graduate Survey Data

The NFEC carries out surveys throughout the course to evaluate the impact of the training and track participant progress. These data reflect input from 1,655 graduates who reported their experiences, outcomes, and how the CFEI® program has influenced their ability to deliver effective financial education.

94%

Increase of Confidence

Do you feel more confident and qualified to empower others with financial wellness programming?

96%

Recommend

Would you recommend that other financial educators complete this class before teaching financial literacy?

Standards for Financial Educators in ANZ

The NFEC set out to elevate the craft of teaching personal finance – and in doing so, built something unprecedented. The Framework for Teaching Personal Finance stands as the nation’s first and only industry‑wide standards for financial education instructors. It gives educators a clear path forward: what great teaching looks like, how to achieve it, and how to help learners build skills that genuinely shape their financial futures.

Created alongside the Danielson Group and aligned with InTASC, the Framework adapts Charlotte Danielson’s influential model to the unique demands of financial literacy instruction. Its 22 research‑backed components reflect a constructivist approach, outlining the knowledge, competencies, and performance expectations that define strong practice. It also offers a roadmap for instructional improvement tied directly to learner progress and professional development.

Danielson’s Framework for Teaching has long been a trusted guide across the education landscape. With adoption in more than 20 states, it remains the most widely-used teaching model in the United States – an anchor for global educators committed to excellence.

What’s Provided in The CFEI® Coursework

Training & Resources

Receive the training and resources you need to earn your Certified Financial Education Instructor® credential. The program combines practical lessons, hands-on activities, and tools designed to build your teaching skills and demonstrate measurable impact.

  • eLearning Education Center
    Over 100 videos, interactive modules, and real-world activities.

  • Course Manual & Framework for Teaching
    Digital instructor guide plus standards and guidelines.

  • Personal Consultation Call
    A 30-minute one-on-one planning session with the program director.

  • Continuing Education
    Optional live training (weekly Friday sessions) and ongoing learning opportunities.

Training Resources

Testing & Graduation

The certification exam is delivered online; a passing score of 80% is required. If you don’t pass on your first attempt, you may retake the exam. Once you pass the final exam and all chapter tests, you have officially graduated and will receive the following:

  • Certified Financial Education Instructor® & CFEI® Credentials
    Use of titles, digital logos, and credentials for use on websites and professional profiles.

  • Testing & Course Assessment
    Take the timed exam on your computer with no added cost for testing.

  • Continuing Education Letter & Topic Badging
    Earn topic badges with every chapter and a CEU letter documenting the program hours.

  • Certificate of Completion Upon Graduation
    Delivered electronically for ANZ graduates.

Certification Process

Awareness, Advocacy, & Funding

To highlight your accomplishments, help you raise awareness, and garner funding for your program, the NFEC provides an awareness package that builds your reputation as a qualified financial educator. Get exposure to our website visitors and highlight your role as a financial education advocate with these complimentary resources:

  • Custom Webpage for Graduates
    Features Your Personal Photo & Bio, Your Organization, and/ or Your Event

  • Demonstrate Expertise & Leadership
    Publishing, Case Study Building, & Advocacy Opportunities

  • Eligible to Participate in NFEC Promotional Campaigns
    Financial Educators Day, Cash for Candy, and 6 Other Advocacy Campaign

  • Graduate & Organizational Spotlights
    Select Graduate Webpages, Organization Spotlights, & Events are Featured via NFEC Social Media Accounts

Advocacy Support

Limited Bonus for CFEI Graduates

As a bonus, CFEI® graduates receive a Program Toolkit ($349 value) complimentary ($0). This package saves time, raises professionalism, and makes it simple to demonstrate measurable impact – helping you fund and scale your program by providing results.

  • Pre-programming: checklists, pre-participation surveys, marketing/registration templates, and full email sequences.
  • Implementation: organizer support resources, promotional handouts, and event checklists (including décor assets).
  • Post-programming: recognition certificates/badges, follow-up assessments, and continuing education materials.
  • Measurement & reporting: assessment bank, KPI templates, and a post-event impact report.
  • Case study template: a polished, ready-to-use report for showcasing outcomes, stories, and metrics to partners and funders.
$349

$349 value, provided complimentary to you

Enroll in The CFEI® Course

By now, you’ve seen how the CFEI financial literacy certification gives you the tools, structure, and confidence to teach personal finance effectively. Completing the program not only strengthens your expertise – it signals your commitment to high‑quality financial education. When you’re ready, simply register below or contact us in the way that’s most convenient for you.

The CFEI® program was built with purpose. Now in its eighth edition, it reflects the collective wisdom of more than 100 contributors, including educators, financial practitioners, behavioral researchers, and niche personal finance experts. Every element is aligned with proven instructional standards so you can step forward as a truly qualified financial education instructor.

You’re invited to become part of a nationwide movement advancing financial literacy. Take an active role in shaping stronger financial futures. Click Enroll Now to begin.

NFEC Mission & Social Vision

The National Financial Educators Council’s mission is rooted in providing people with the knowledge and guidance they need to foster greater financial well-being. To accomplish that mission, we mobilize a diverse global force of financial wellness champions and empower them with resources and training so they can effectively support others in their communities to work toward greater financial security.

We do so by setting rigorous standards, developing evidence-based curriculum and assessments, and partnering with schools, employers, and community organizations to scale proven programs. By measuring outcomes and continuously refining our approaches, we ensure that our work produces real, lasting improvements in people’s financial lives.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

This training program is designed to provide unbiased, research-based education. All program developers have disclosed any financial or personal relationships that could present a conflict of interest. Any potential conflicts have been reviewed and managed to ensure the integrity and objectivity of this course.

The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) is an independent education organization. We do not offer financial products or services, and we do not accept compensation from financial institutions for promoting specific tools, services, or advice within the CFEI program. Our sole focus is on delivering high-quality, evidence-based financial education and empowering learners without commercial influence.

Furthermore, all NFEC instructors and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are also required to complete a formal conflict of interest disclosure and review process during onboarding and for subsequent learning events. Any reported potential conflicts are evaluated, documented, and approved or denied in accordance with established standards designed to protect participant trust, instructional impartiality, and the integrity of NFEC programs and accreditation requirements.

Equal Opportunity, Non-Discrimination, & Accessibility Statement

The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) provides equal access and opportunity to all individuals seeking to enroll in the Certified Financial Education Instructor® (CFEI®) program. Enrollment decisions are based on program eligibility criteria and are not influenced by non-merit factors. The NFEC values the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that learners bring to the financial education field.

The NFEC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital or parental status, military or veteran status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

The CFEI program is designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with documented disabilities or accessibility needs. Learners who require accommodations or who have questions regarding technical, physical, or accessibility requirements for course participation are encouraged to contact the NFEC in advance or at any point during enrollment so appropriate support can be provided.

Learner Identity and Course Access Policy

To access online course content, each learner must use the same email address provided when the course was purchased or a seat was reserved. The learner must also create a unique password that meets NFEC password requirements. Login credentials may not be shared or used by another individual.

By registering for, accessing, and completing the course, including any required assessments, the learner confirms that they are the individual authorized to participate in the course. The person completing the coursework and assessments must be the same person registered for the course and identified as the recipient of any continuing education units (CEUs), certificates, or other completion credentials.

CEUS: 4.8 (48 development hours)

Criteria to earn CEUs: Pass all assessments with a score of 80% or higher

Prerequisites: None

Material Requirements: Computer, Internet Connection, Computer Speakers or Headset

Course Summary: The Certified Financial Education Instructor course was designed to equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to design and deliver high-quality financial education and prove the impact of their programming.

CFEI® Professional Development Course

$396
  • $129 annually starting year 2
  • Training & Resources: eLearning Education Center, Course Manual & Framework for Teaching, Personal Consultation Call, Continuing Education (live trainings)
  • Testing & Graduation: Certification Exam, CFEI® Credential & Digital Badge, Course Assessment, Continuing Education Letter & Topic Badging, Graduation Certificate
  • Awareness, Advocacy, & Funding: Custom Graduate Webpage, Publishing & Case Study Support, Eligibility for NFEC Campaigns, Graduate & Organizational Spotlights
  • Limited Bonus: Graduate Program Toolkit: Resources for each student touchpoint – before, during, and after programming; course assessments for learners; case study reporting template.
Enroll Now

Guarantee, Terms, & Renewal

We offer a 30-day, full-money-back guarantee. An annual maintenance fee of $129 is required beginning 365 days after purchase and covers ongoing access to training, tools, and testing needed to complete your certification and keep your enrollment active. Full recertification – including required training and testing – is required every three years to maintain CFEI® status. Read the complete terms and conditions.

Financial education across the ANZ region – Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea – is increasingly viewed as essential to economic participation, household resilience, and consumer protection. Governments, central banks, regulators, schools, and nonprofit organizations are investing more heavily in financial capability programs as families face rising living costs, digital financial services, scams, debt pressures, and retirement planning challenges. Across the region, the emphasis has shifted from simply teaching budgeting skills to helping people navigate complex financial decisions involving credit, investing, superannuation or retirement savings, digital banking, and financial fraud prevention. While progress differs significantly between countries, financial literacy is now recognized as an important part of long-term economic development and social well-being.

In Australia, financial education is comparatively well developed and supported by national infrastructure. The government-backed MoneySmart platform, delivered by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), provides free financial guidance, tools, calculators, and curriculum-linked classroom materials for teachers and students. Financial educators have helped embed money concepts into school learning, expanded public access to consumer resources, and strengthened awareness around scams, investing, and responsible borrowing. Recent efforts have also focused on protecting younger Australians from misinformation spread through social media “finfluencers,” reflecting educators’ growing role in digital financial safety. Financial capability advocates and educators have contributed to stronger partnerships between schools, regulators, and community organizations to improve practical money skills nationwide.

In New Zealand, financial capability education has gained momentum through school curriculum reforms and community-based programs that support lifelong money management skills. Financial educators have played an important role in promoting practical learning about saving, debt, investing, and home ownership preparation, particularly for underserved populations and Pacific communities. Meanwhile, in Papua New Guinea, financial education remains at an earlier stage of development but has expanded through banking sector initiatives, financial inclusion programs, and central bank-supported literacy efforts aimed at increasing participation in formal banking and small business activity. Financial educators in PNG have made important progress in reaching rural populations and first-time banking users with training on budgeting, savings, and entrepreneurship, helping more citizens build confidence in managing money despite broader educational and infrastructure challenges.

Andrew Lendnal

Financial Wellness Expert & Best-selling Personal Finance Author

Andrew Lendnal is a Financial Wellness Expert, Banking and Financial Services Executive Hailing from New Zealand. Andrew has made Washington D.C. his home, where he lives with his wife and three daughters. A distinguished alumnus, Andrew holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Bachelor of Science from Victoria University of Wellington, as well as an MBA from Massey University. Alongside these academic accolades, he also attained the Series 7 and Series 63 financial certifications. With over two decades in the industry, Andrew has made an indelible mark in the financial wellness arena. More than just a financial expert, he’s fervently passionate about guiding individuals toward financial stability and independence. Holding the Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI) designation through the NFEC, Andrew’s dedication has positioned him at the forefront of the workplace financial wellness movement and its related communities. Andrew is also an internationally bestselling author, he has written seven books, simplifying intricate financial concepts for readers of all backgrounds. Titles such as ‘Gold Start’, ‘Budget Wise Dollar Rich’, and ‘Catalyst’ have received global recognition. Moreover, his children’s series, ‘Money $mart’, paves the way for the financial literacy of future generations.