ABFP® – Accredited Behavioral Finance Professional
🧭 Overview
ABFP® – Accredited Behavioral Finance Professional is an advanced designation offered by the College for Financial Planning® – A Kaplan Company. It is designed for financial professionals who want to integrate behavioral finance principles into their client advisory practice. The program explores how psychological biases, heuristics, and emotional factors influence financial decision-making under uncertainty.
ABFP® holders are trained to recognize and mitigate client behaviors that may hinder long-term financial outcomes. The curriculum blends foundational theory with academic research and real-world case studies, helping advisors apply behavioral insights to portfolio construction, retirement planning, and client communication strategies.
📚 Requirements
- Online self-study program with OnDemand video lectures, reading assignments, and quizzes
- Closed-book final exam; must be completed within 120 days of enrollment
- Estimated study time: 100–120 hours
- No formal prerequisites; recommended for experienced financial planners and advisors
- Continuing education: 16 hours every two years
🤝 Community & Recognition
ABFP® designees are part of the College’s national alumni network and benefit from Kaplan’s continuing education platform. The designation is recognized by FINRA and valued by firms seeking advisors who can navigate client psychology and improve financial outcomes. Graduates may also earn credit toward the College’s Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning program.
📜 Quick Facts
Issuing Organization: College for Financial Planning® – A Kaplan Company
Website: [ABFP® Program Overview](https://www.kaplanfinancial.com/wealth-management/abfp)
Credential Focus: Behavioral finance, client psychology, decision-making biases, emotional intelligence
Audience: Financial planners, wealth advisors, behavioral finance specialists
Continuing Education: 16 hours every two years
Related Designations: CFP®, AWMA®, APMA®
