Certification News
Keep up-to-date on all Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Program news here.
Recent Certification News
January 17, 2023 - Validate your knowledge and experience by earning the FAAC® designation, and qualify to attend exclusive events, such as the FAAC Forum in February. There are a few seats available during the January testing window and the next window opens on February 22, 2023, followed by a recently announced March testing window. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize the Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
January 10, 2023 - Qualify to attend the FAAC Forum in February by getting certified during the upcoming testing window that runs Wednesday, January 11-25, 2023. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online now. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize several candidate resources to review for the exam.
January 4, 2023 - NASFAA is pleased to announce that the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program Commission recently approved an alternative pathway for candidates to qualify to sit for the certification knowledge exam. The Commission has determined that financial aid administrators with 10 or more years of professional financial-aid related experience may qualify without holding a bachelor’s degree. Explore whether you qualify using our interactive eligibility tool. The upcoming testing window opens next Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023.
December 22, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the Registry continues to grow! Hundreds of financial aid professionals across the country now hold the FAAC® designation. Certified by the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission, these individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you’re interested in becoming certified, the next testing window opens on January 11, 2022. Explore your eligibility today using our free interactive tool.
December 19, 2022 - Validate your knowledge and experience by earning the FAAC® designation… and qualify to attend exclusive events, such as the FAAC Forum in February. There are a few seats available during the December testing window and the next window opens on January 11, 2023. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize the Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
December 14, 2022 - There are still seats available during the current testing window, which remains open through December 21, 2022. Be sure to schedule your exam session soon to secure the time that works best for you. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize these candidate resources to help you prepare for the exam. Can’t make it this time? The next testing window is January 11-25, 2023.
December 6, 2022 - Qualify to attend the FAAC® Forum in February by getting certified during the upcoming testing window that runs Wednesday, December 7-21, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online now. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize several candidate resources to review for the exam.
December 5, 2022 - With the NASFAA Leadership & Legislative Conference & Expo just two months away, we’re highlighting one of the five pathways members can register for, the FAAC® Forum, with Dr. Christina Tangalakis, chair of the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Program Commission.
December 1, 2022 - It’s been three years since the launch of NASFAA's Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Program. This year, we focused on recertification and supporting the community of FAACs. Of the first cohort of FAACs eligible for renewal by the end of the fiscal year, nearly 80% renewed their designation. More than 40 of them renewed having earned well above 100 recertification points, qualifying for special benefits as members of the new 100+ Club. They were joined by 50 new FAACs from across the country for a total of 304 FAACs in all six regions and 45 states by the end of the year. NASFAA's Professional Credential program also continues to grow as members earn new credentials and renew existing credentials. By the end of this fiscal year, more than 28,770 credentials were earned or renewed; 8,488 professionals earned at least one credential; and 234 top credential earners earned all available NASFAA Professional Credentials. Read more about NASFAA’s Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Program and Professional Credentials program on pages 27-28 of NASFAA Now, our annual impact report.
November 22, 2022 - Are you interested in learning more about NASFAA’s Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program? We asked four FAACs to share insights about their experience with the program, including why they decided to pursue certification, how they prepared for the knowledge exam, and how they benefit from holding the FAAC designation. Their responses may address some of your questions and give you the encouragement you need to take the next step in your own professional development. Learn more now.
November 21, 2022 - Those who have earned the FAAC® designation have demonstrated breadth of knowledge of benefit to their employers, their colleagues, and the students and families seeking assistance — and they’re not afraid to dive deep into thorny issues. The FAAC Forum at NASFAA’s 2023 Leadership & Legislative Conference & Expo gives you the chance to connect with others in your community and collaborate on big picture issues facing the financial aid profession. Explore the schedule and register today! If you're interested in becoming certified and qualifying to attend this event, verify your eligibility using our free interactive tool.
November 4, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the registry continues to grow! Hundreds of financial aid professionals across the country now hold the FAAC® designation. Certified by the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission, these individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you're interested in becoming certified, the next testing window opens on Dec. 7, 2022. Explore your eligibility today using our free interactive tool.
October 31, 2022 - Today is the last day to take advantage of the waived certification application fee, a savings of $50. Start your journey towards earning the FAAC® designation by checking your eligibility and submitting your application. Upon approval, you will have one year to prepare for and sit for the knowledge exam. NASFAA has developed a suite of resources to aid your preparation, including a self-assessment worksheet and exam prep guide. Learn more about the certification process by viewing this recorded Certification Insider Zoom session. Get started today!
October 26, 2022 - There are still seats available during the current testing window, which remains open through November 2, 2022. Be sure to schedule your exam session soon to secure the time that works best for you. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize these candidate resources to help you prepare for the exam. Can’t make it this time? The next testing window is December 7-21, 2022.
October 25, 2022 - Take advantage of the certification application waiver and apply today to get certified! The FAAC® designation will open doors for your professional growth and provide you with added credibility as you help students and work across campus. NASFAA has developed a suite of resources to help you prepare for the knowledge exam, which is available to you for a year after your application is approved. Check your eligibility for the certification program, and apply today!
October 21, 2022 - Ready to add the FAAC® designation to your name? The current testing window is now open through November 2, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online now. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize these candidate resources to help you prepare for the exam.
October 17, 2022 - Financial aid administrators play an important role in the world of higher education. Get the credit you deserve by adding the FAAC® designation to your signature. Current FAACs have cited increased validation and credibility after becoming certified. In honor of Financial Aid Day on October 19, NASFAA has waived the fee for the certification application now through October 31, 2022, a savings of $50. No promo code is needed. Once your application is approved, you will have one year to sit for the knowledge exam - plenty of time to utilize the candidate resources and prepare for the exam. Check your eligibility for the certification program, and apply today!
September 30, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the registry continues to grow! Hundreds of financial aid professionals across the country now hold the FAAC® designation. Certified by the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission, these individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you're interested in becoming certified, the next testing window opens on Oct. 19, 2022. Explore your eligibility today using our free interactive tool.
September 21, 2022 - Ready to add the FAAC® designation to your name? There are still seats available during the current testing window, which remains open through Sept. 28, 2022. Be sure to schedule your exam session soon to secure the time that works best for you. If you haven’t applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Can’t make it this time? The next testing window is Oct. 19 through Nov. 2, 2022.
September 14, 2022 - Ready to add the FAAC® designation to your name? The current testing window is open today through September 28. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online now. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize the Candidate Handbook and Exam Preparation Guide to review for the exam.
September 7, 2022 - Are you ready to get certified and show what you know? Take advantage of the next two-week testing window: September 14-28, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Questions? The Candidate Handbook is the place to look for answers, or email us at [email protected].
August 31, 2022 - Looking for resources to help you prepare to take the certification knowledge exam? Minimize the time you spend preparing by focusing your review where it’s most needed. Download NASFAA’s new Self-Assessment Worksheet to evaluate which parts of the Content Outline in the Candidate Handbook you might want to prioritize. Then begin reviewing resources including the FSA Handbook and NASFAA's Exam Preparation Guide. Gain even greater confidence through strategic preparation and you’ll be ready on exam day!
NASFAA Congratulates the Newest Cohort of FAACs
July 29, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the registry continues to grow! The Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission — an independent certifying body of NASFAA — has now certified a total of 322 financial aid professionals across the country who have earned the FAAC® designation. These individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you’re interested in becoming certified, verify your eligibility using our free, interactive tool. The next testing window opens on July 13, 2022.
July 20, 2022 - There are still seats available during the current testing window, which is open through July 27, 2022. Exam dates and times fill up quickly, so be sure to schedule your exam session soon. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements.
July 13, 2022 - Ready to add the FAAC® designation to your name? The first testing window of 2022-23 is open today through July 27, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online now. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize the Candidate Handbook and Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
July 12, 2022 - Looking for resources to help you prepare to take the certification knowledge exam? Minimize the time you spend preparing by focusing your review where it’s most needed. Download NASFAA’s new Self-Assessment Worksheet to evaluate which parts of the Content Outline in the Candidate Handbook you might want to prioritize. Then begin reviewing resources including the FSA Handbook and NASFAA’s Exam Preparation Guide, which is updated and more comprehensive than the beta version previously available. Gain even greater confidence through strategic preparation and you’ll be ready on Exam Day!
July 8, 2022 - The FAAC® designation is something to be celebrated! At the National Conference, we asked current FAACs to share why they became certified. Check out what they had to say. Are you already certified? Add your own #whycertify. Not certified yet? Check your eligibility using our free interactive tool, and then apply online.
July 6, 2022 - Does increased credibility, more opportunities to lead, and being a part of a community of distinguished peers entice you? Then it's time to get certified! The first testing window of 2022-23 will be open from July 13-27, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Utilize the Candidate Handbook and Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
July 5, 2022 - As of July 1, 2022 the CFAA Program Commission will be led by Commission Chair Christina Tangalakis, Ed.D. Shannon Crossland will continue to serve on the Commission as past chair, and Craig Slaughter will serve as chair-elect. During the past year, the CFAA Program added new accomplishments, including the inaugural FAAC® Forum, introduction of the FAAC Slack Community, and recertification of the first FAAC cohort. NASFAA is excited to support the incoming commissioners as they continue to advance the program over the next year. Meet all of the 2022-23 commissioners.
June 22, 2022 - To remain certified, an FAAC® must accumulate at least 60 recertification points (RPs) every three years through financial aid-related training and other activities. FAACs who recertify with 100 RPs or more qualify to join the exclusive 100+ Club, which acknowledges the significant investment of time and effort required to recertify at this level. More than 30 FAACs have achieved this milestone. Benefits include a discounted recertification fee, a special badge and lapel pin, and inclusion on the 100+ Club Registry. Make the 100+ Club your new goal! Learn more about recognition and benefits for all FAACs.
June 17, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the registry continues to grow! The Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission — an independent certifying body of NASFAA — has now certified a total of 322 financial aid professionals across the country who have earned the FAAC® designation. These individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you’re interested in becoming certified, verify your eligibility using our free, interactive tool. The next testing window opens on July 13, 2022.
June 3, 2022 - Earlier this week, those with the FAAC® designation tackled a tough conversation about NASFAA's recently released survey on staffing shortages in the financial aid office. Read on for more from practicing aid administrators about how staffing challenges have intensified in recent years, and how it's impacting office operations.
June 2, 2022 - What's the best way to prepare to take the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program Knowledge Exam? We recommend starting with the Candidate Handbook. View this on-demand webinar to explore how you can use the Candidate Handbook to your advantage. Hear from a panel of FAACs® who shared insights into why they pursued certification, how they prepared for the knowledge exam, what the testing experience was like, and how they have benefited from the designation. Begin your journey toward certification by tuning in for this complimentary webinar to learn more about the CFAA Program. Register now.
May 27, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the registry continues to grow! The Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission — an independent certifying body of NASFAA — has now certified a total of 316 financial aid professionals across the country who have earned the FAAC® designation. These individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you’re interested in becoming certified, verify your eligibility using our free, interactive tool. The next testing window opens on June 1, 2022.
May 18, 2022 - There is still time to get certified during the current testing window, which is open through May 25, 2022. Exam dates and times fill up quickly, so be sure to schedule your exam session soon. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements.
May 11, 2022 - Ready to earn the FAAC® designation? You'll accomplish an important professional goal and you would qualify to receive the multitude of benefits that come with certification. The current two-week testing window is now open through May 25, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize the Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
May 10, 2022 - What's the best way to prepare to take the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program Knowledge Exam? We recommend starting with the Candidate Handbook. Join Margot O'Meara, NASFAA's certification and credentialing program analyst, on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. ET to explore how you can use the handbook to your advantage. She will be joined by a panel of FAACs® who will share insights into why they pursued certification, how they prepared for the knowledge exam, what the testing experience was like, and how they have benefited from the designation. Begin your journey toward certification by tuning in for this complimentary webinar to learn more about the CFAA Program. Register now.
May 5, 2022 - Join Margot O'Meara, NASFAA's certification and credentialing program analyst, next Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. ET to explore how you can use the Candidate Handbook to your advantage. She will be joined by a panel of FAACs® who will share insights into why they pursued certification, how they prepared for the knowledge exam, what the testing experience was like, and how they have benefited from the designation. Begin your journey towards certification by tuning in for this complimentary webinar to learn more about the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program. Register now.
May 4, 2022 - Interested in joining the FAAC® community? The next testing window will be open from Wednesday, May 11 to May 26, 2022. Exam dates and times can fill up quickly, so be sure to schedule your exam session soon. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Check your eligibility and then complete your certification application online. Utilize the Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
April 29, 2022 - The most recent certification testing window has closed and the registry continues to grow! The Certified Financial Aid Administrator® Commission — an independent certifying body of NASFAA — has now certified a total of 313 financial aid professionals across the country who have earned the FAAC® designation. These individuals now qualify to receive a multitude of benefits. If you’re interested in becoming certified, verify your eligibility using our free, interactive tool. The next testing window opens on May 11, 2020, followed by another testing window beginning June 1, 2022.
April 20, 2022 - There is still time to get certified during the current testing window, which is open through April 27, 2022. Exam dates and times fill up quickly, so be sure to schedule your exam session soon. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements.
April 18, 2022 - What's the best way to prepare to take the Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (CFAA) Program Knowledge Exam? We recommend starting with the Candidate Handbook. Join Margot O'Meara, NASFAA's certification and credentialing program analyst, on Wednesday, May 11, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. ET to explore how you can use the Candidate Handbook to your advantage. She will be joined by a panel of FAACs® who will share insights into why they pursued certification, how they prepared for the knowledge exam, what the testing experience was like, and how they have benefited from the designation. Begin your journey toward certification by tuning in for this complimentary webinar to learn more about the CFAA Program. Register now.
April 14, 2022 - Ready to earn the FAAC® designation? You'll accomplish an important professional goal and you would qualify to receive the multitude of benefits that come with certification. The current two-week testing window is now open through April 27, 2022. If your application has already been approved, purchase the certification knowledge exam and schedule your session online. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today. Learn more about the testing process and make sure you meet all of the technical requirements. Utilize the Exam Preparation Guide to aid your studies.
April 7, 2022 - Your window of opportunity just expanded! Now the April testing window will be open from Thursday, April 14 through Wednesday April 27, 2022. NASFAA also added a two-week testing window into the schedule, beginning on Wednesday, May 11, 2022. If you're already approved to participate, book your session now during the testing window that's most convenient for you. Learn more about the testing process and check the technical requirements. Use the complimentary Exam Preparation Guide to help get ready for your exam. If you haven't applied yet, complete your application online today.
Publication Date: 1/20/2023
