AF5 exam requirements

This page outlines the contents and requirements of the AF5 exam, and how the Wizard Learning AF5 Expected Solution Package can help you pass first time.

Introduction

The AF5 exam is a formal test of the skills an adviser should possess to carry out their role effectively. It tests your ability to apply the knowledge gained from the other AF papers. Passing AF5, which is compulsory for the Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning, earns 30 valuable credits towards Chartered Financial Planner status.

Syllabus

The exam requires you to apply the financial planning process to a complete client scenario and construct a financial plan that demonstrates:

1. Understanding of the adviser–client relationship and the scope of the planning brief
2. Evaluation of different remuneration strategies
3. Ability to prioritise client financial objectives
4. Understanding of the assumptions underlying the plan
5. Assessment of the client’s financial status
6. Analysis of risk, including client risk profile
7. Evaluation of client options with evidence
8. Ability to construct an appropriate financial plan
9. Clear explanation of technical terms, benefits, and consequences
10. Understanding of documenting and reviewing plan changes

Assessment method

The AF5 is a written exam paper based on a fact find released two weeks before the exam. Candidates receive the same fact find on exam day, with supplementary details about the client’s objectives. The exam lasts three hours, with 160 marks available across around eight questions (plus sub-questions).

Application based exam

AF5 assesses the application of financial planning knowledge. At this level, candidates are expected to have comprehensive technical knowledge of markets, products, taxation and wider issues, and demonstrate analysis and evaluation of a complex client case. Success depends on how well you apply knowledge, not just recall it.

How the AF5 Expected Solution Package helps

To help you pass first time, Wizard Learning provides a comprehensive AF5 Expected Solution Package including:

• Technical content for research — brush up with R01–R05 online courses
• Exam technique — review past AF5 papers and compare your answers with our expert solutions
• The current AF5 Expected Solution, written and reviewed by our subject experts
• PLUS: free access to the Financial Planning Practice course (PDF)

Trust Wizard Learning

Our panel of Chartered experts analyse the CII fact find and predict likely exam questions. We don’t just prepare you — we also show you how to construct answers in the style and format the CII examiners expect.

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Buy AF5 Expected Solution Package

Customer feedback

“The training provided for the AF5 examination was invaluable and I can safely say that I would not have passed without it.” — Shaun Kirtley

“I have just made it to Chartered, I couldn’t have done it without you! Thanks so much for your invaluable help.” — Fiona Sharp

“I just passed AF5 to attain Chartered status, the expected solution package was a huge help. Wizard Learning has been the biggest reason I have managed to get this far and I would recommend you to anyone.” — David Morrans, Honour Financial Planning Ltd

“Just to let you know I passed my AF5. This was all down to your AF5 Expected Solution Package material as that is all I revised. I could not have got it without you.” — Joanne Fisher, Yorkshire Bank

“Thanks for the help — The AF5 expected solution was pretty much spot on and I was notified of a PASS today.” — David Mannion