CPWA Certification Process

Experience

Before beginning the CPWA certification process, candidates must demonstrate the following program prerequisites:

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or one of the following designations or licenses: CIMA®, CIMC®, CFA ®, CFP®, ChFC®, or CPA license
  • Acceptable regulatory history as evidenced by FINRA’s form U-4 or other regulatory requirements
  • Five full years of professional client-centered experience in financial services or a related industry

There are six steps to attaining the CPWA Certification

1. Submit an application detailing a minimum of five (5) years of relevant client-centered experience.

2. Complete the pre-study educational component. Students are provided with reading materials, assignments and online quizzes during the pre-study program.

3. Attend the entire 5-day in-class portion of the program at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

4. Pass the comprehensive examination.

5. Sign a License Agreement, authorizing the use of the mark—CPWA®.

6. Maintain the certification through continuing education and adherence to the IMCA Code of Professional Responsibility.