The CFP Board announced that a record-breaking number of candidates sat for the CFP® Certification Exam when it was administered in March.
During a March 17-24 testing window, a new all-time record of 4,391 candidates took the exam, the board said. Records were also set for racially and ethnically diverse candidates (908) and women candidates (1,240). The pass rate for the March 2026 exam was 67%.
The CFP Board noted there has been a trend toward younger candidates that is strengthening the professional pipeline. Of the candidates registered for the CFP® exam, 75% were under 40 years old, 47% were under age 30 and the number of candidates coming through CFP Board registered bachelor’s degree programs has more than tripled over the past decade.
“People are pursuing CFP® certification earlier in their careers, recognizing it as the essential credential for financial planning,” said CFP Board CEO K. Dane Snowden. “That momentum reflects a stronger, more intentional pipeline into the profession. It shows the impact of our efforts, alongside educators and firms, to bring more professionals into the field to meet growing demand among Americans for competent, ethical financial planning.”
According to the March 2026 post-exam survey, the main reason candidates seek CFP® certification is to demonstrate their expertise (41%), followed by distinguishing themselves as a fiduciary (32%). Just over two-thirds (68%) of those who took the exam in March said they received some level of financial support from their employers on their path to CFP® certification.
The 10 states with the most CFP® exam candidates were California, Texas, New York, Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Ohio and exam candidates from those states made up 53% (2,335 individuals) of the total March 2026 candidates.
The CFP® exam is offered three times annually, in March, July and November. Registration is open for the next exam, which will be administered from July 14-21, 2026. The registration deadline is June 30, and the Education Verification Deadline is June 23. Testing appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis. Candidates are advised to register at least 60 days in advance for the best date and site availability.
Hyman Cotter PC represents advisors, brokers and other financial professional in all matters involving the CFP Board, including CFP Board investigations. Headquartered in Chicago, our securities attorneys represent clients nationwide. For more information relating to CFP Board investigations and discipline or other matters, contact Hyman Cotter at (833) 665-0784 or through our online contact form for a free consultation.
