CU FiCEP

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should use FiCEP?

How does FiCEP work?

What if my credit union wants multiple staff to certify?

Does my proctor need to provide CUNA any information?

What fees are associated with a proctored exam?

How does the proctor get my exam?

How early should I request my exam?

Can I take more than one exam at a time?

How long does an exam take?

What do I need to take to the exam?

How do I receive my grade?

What if I fail the exam?

How do I get my certificate?

Do I have to recertify?

Who should use FiCEP?
FiCEP is designed for credit union staff who work in the financial counseling, collections, and loan departments, or any other staff members who are committed to helping members gain control of their financial future.

How does FiCEP work?
FiCEP is a self-study learning program, so you can complete it at your own pace, on your own schedule. There is no time limit for completing all the modules or exams.

You may choose to read a few modules which fit your learning needs or complete all eight modules and exams to receive the Certified Credit Union Financial Counseling (CCUFC) designation.

What if my credit union wants multiple staff to certify?
If your credit union wants multiple staff to become certified, your credit union can share the modules among the staff. Please note, you will receive one complimentary exam and one answer sheet with each module ordered. To order an additional exam and answer sheet for each individual testing, call CUNA Member Services at 800-356-8010, press 3 or order online. Each additional exam is $30.

Does my proctor need to provide CUNA any information?
Yes, CUNA will send your proctor a proctor agreement that needs to be signed and returned with your completed exam. This agreement will be mailed to your proctor along with your exam booklet.

What fees are associated with a proctored exam?
Fees associated with a proctor and testing are the responsibility of the student. If the testing is conducted during regular business hours, there is often only a minimal charge, if any. Be sure to consult with the proctor and testing facility in advance about the fees.

How does the proctor get my exam?
To request your exam, complete the “Request for FiCEP Exam” form on the last page of your module. Once you have filled out the form, fax or mail it to CUNA according to the form instructions. The exam booklet will be sent to the proctor at the mailing address you provide on the form. You will always need to fill out the “Request for FiCEP Exam” form with the pertinent information so that we know where to send the exam.

Please note that with each module ordered by the credit union, you will receive one complimentary exam and answer sheet. If you are sharing a module with other credit union staff members, you will need to order an additional exam and answer sheet for each individual by calling CUNA Member Services at 800-356-8010, press 3 or ordering online. Each additional exam is $30.

How early should I request my exam?
To ensure that your proctor receives the testing materials in time for your exam date, place your order at least four weeks prior to your scheduled exam date to allow for processing and mailing time.

Can I take more than one exam at a time?
Often students like to take more than one exam at one time. This is perfectly acceptable as long as you have made the appropriate arrangements with your proctor.

How long does an exam take?
You are allotted two hours to complete each exam, which is more than enough time to successfully complete the exam. Most students find that they complete the exam in 45 minutes to an hour.

What do I need to take to the exam?
Please bring the following items with you to your exam site:

• At least two No.2 pencils and an eraser
• A watch
• One form of identification with a picture and/or signature such as your driver’s license or a picture ID. The proctor will check your identification before your exam is administered.
• Your credit union ID number and branch number for the exam answer sheet

How do I receive my grade?
Grade notices will be mailed to your credit union within one month of the date we receive your exam from the proctor. Students must receive a grade of a C or better to pass the course. The exams are on a pass/fail basis which means that you must correctly respond to 70% of the exam questions.

What if I fail the exam?
If you do not pass your exam and need to schedule a retest with your proctor, you must order an additional exam and answer sheet by calling CUNA Member Services at 800-356-8010, press 3 or ordering online. Please note that if you do have to re-take the exam, there will be a $30.00 administrative fee that will be charged to your credit union.

How do I get my certificate?
After successfully completing the exams for all eight (8) FiCEP modules, you will receive your Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) certificate in the mail. This should arrive at your credit union within 60 days of completing your last exam.

Do I have to recertify?
The Certified Credit Union Financial Counselor (CCUFC) designation requires recertification every three years to ensure that your knowledge about financial counseling is current. Learn more about recertification.

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