How to Become an ACFRE

Learn about the rigorous four-stage process to earn this advanced certification.
  1. Credentials & Degrees
  2. ACFRE
  3. How to Become an ACFRE

So, You Want to Be an ACFRE?

If you're considering the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) credential, keep in mind that the journey is unique for everyone. What excites one candidate may be a challenge for another, making each experience truly individual. 

Eligibility Requirements

Currently working in the fundraising profession
Minimum of 10 years of full-time professional experience in fundraising (or an equivalent combination of broader professional experience)
Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience)
15 contact hours of senior-level management AND 15 contact hours of senior-level leadership seminars/courses (within last five years)
10 hours of ethics courses (within last five years)
Hold a CFRE, FAHP, IADF, or have at least 20 years of full-time professional experience in fundraising
Adhere to AFP's Code of Ethical Standards and the Donor Bill of Rights
Maintain membership and active participation in a relevant professional organization (including volunteer service)

Four Stage ACFRE Process

Candidates must complete the ACFRE program within two years of application approval by the ACFRE Certification Board. A one-year extension may be requested at any point during the process. Upon successfully completing the four sequential components, candidates earn the prestigious Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive (ACFRE) designation. 

Download the Full Instruction Document

Stage 1: Application

Welcome to the ACFRE program! To begin, candidates must submit a completed application with two peer recommendations and a $400 application fee. The program must be completed within two years of application approval, with one optional one-year extension available. In your application, you will:
 

  • Demonstrate basic eligibility: advanced leadership, management, and ethics coursework, volunteer service, and ethical decision-making experience.
  • Share active involvement in both the philanthropic sector (e.g., board service) and the fundraising profession (e.g., mentoring).
Stage 2: Portfolio

Once the ACFRE Certification Board approves an application, the individual becomes a candidate and may submit a portfolio along with a $400 portfolio fee:
 

  • Submit materials documenting professional performance from the past five years.
  • Showcase personal contributions to fundraising projects and strategies, illustrating how your work has advanced philanthropic goals.
Stage 3: Written Exam

The written exam must be taken within one year of approval of the portfolio. Registration for the exam must include payment of the $400 exam fee. Candidates who achieve a passing grade on the examination become eligible for the oral peer review. 

In the exam, each candidate must: 
 

  • Answer essay questions demonstrating the depth and breadth of fundraising knowledge.
  • Highlight the ability to develop logical arguments, communicate effectively in writing, and apply best practices. 
Stage 4: Oral Review

Oral peer reviews take place through special arrangement at an AFP event like AFP ICON or AFP LEAD, and require a final $400 review fee. 
 

  • Present your expertise in a panel review focusing on fundraising ethics, management, leadership, and planning.
  • Demonstrate strategic thinking and in-depth knowledge, particularly in two specialty areas.

Questions About Eligibility?

If you feel you are qualified for the ACFRE but you don't exactly meet the eligibility requirements, please send a letter of inquiry prior to submitting an application. 

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Piggy Bank

Total cost to obtain the ACFRE credential is $1,600 USD

The application fee for the ACFRE process is $400, paid when your application is submitted. Following approval of your application, there is a $1,200 certification fee. Candidates who successfully complete the application phase of the ACFRE process may be eligible for a scholarship covering the certification fee. Please send an email to [email protected] with your request.

In Conversation with ACFREs: The Credentialing Process

Join five development professionals as they share their ACFRE journeys, offering insights, tips, and an inside look at the credentialing process. 

Need Help Getting Started?

We know this is a big decision and that the application process requires time and care. Please get in touch if you have any questions or need help deciding if ACFRE is right for you. 

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