CFRE
CFRE Exam
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Cheat sheet
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential is an internationally recognized, voluntary certification that recognizes a fundraiser's professional growth and commitment to the philanthropic sector. It is aimed at working fundraising professionals who can document education, months of professional practice, and professional performance - actual funds raised or communications and management projects - rather than at newcomers to the field. Candidates apply for approval first, then sit the exam.
The exam is computer-based and delivered in person at Pearson Test Centers. It contains 200 multiple-choice questions with four choices each, split into two sections of 100 questions, with four hours total to test and an optional 10-minute break between sections. Of the 200 items, 175 count toward the score and 25 are unscored pretest items. Results are scaled from 200 to 800, and a score of 500 or above passes. Content is organized into six knowledge domains: Current and Prospective Donor Research (15%), Securing the Gift (22%), Relationship Building (29%), Volunteer Involvement (6%), Leadership and Management (18%), and Ethics, Accountability, and Professionalism (10%).
CFRE International suggests planning at least 40 to 80 hours of study. Preparation options it lists include the Test Content Outline, a study plan template, a glossary, a reading list, a practice exam, the official study guide, and study groups. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by CFRE International; always confirm logistics on the official site before you apply.
What you'll study
About CFRE preparation
How long is the CFRE Exam and how is it structured?
You have four hours total. The exam is two sections of 100 multiple-choice questions each, with four answer choices per question and an optional 10-minute break between the sections. Once you move past Section 1 - whether you take the break or skip it - you cannot return to it.
Do all 200 questions count toward my score?
No. Of the 200 items, 175 count toward your score and 25 are pretest items that do not count. Because pretest items are not flagged, treat every question as if it matters - you cannot identify which 25 are the unscored ones.
What score do I need to pass?
The exam uses a scaled score ranging from 200 to 800, and a score of 500 or above is required to pass. Because it is a scaled score rather than a raw percentage, you cannot reliably convert a practice-test percentage into a predicted pass.
When and how do I get my results?
Pearson emails your results within 48 hours of finishing the exam. The report shows pass/fail plus a breakdown of your performance by knowledge domain, which is useful for pinpointing weak areas if you need to retest or simply want to deepen your knowledge.
What happens if I take too long on the break?
The break is optional and capped at 10 minutes. Any break time beyond 10 minutes is deducted from your remaining time in Section 2. If you skip the break entirely, you still cannot go back to Section 1, so budget your first section carefully.
When can I schedule the exam?
CFRE International runs four annual testing windows: January 15 to March 15 (application deadline January 15), April 15 to June 15 (April 15), July 15 to September 15 (July 15), and October 1 to November 30 (October 1). Missing a deadline means waiting for the next window, so plan backwards from your target date.
Can I take the exam online from home?
Currently no. CFRE International has temporarily discontinued online remote proctoring while it investigates challenges with that testing mode. In-person testing at a Pearson Test Center, with locations globally, continues to be available. Check the official site for current status before booking travel.
How many hours should I study, and in what order?
CFRE International suggests planning at least 40 to 80 hours. A sensible order follows the domain weights: Relationship Building (29%), Securing the Gift (22%), Leadership and Management (18%), Donor Research (15%), Ethics (10%), then Volunteer Involvement (6%). Confirm your weak spots with a practice exam early rather than late.
How often must I recertify?
Every three years. You submit a recertification application after meeting the Education, Professional Practice, and Professional Performance points requirements. All credential holders also pledge to abide by CFRE's Accountability Standards, the International Statement of Best Practices in Ethical Fundraising, and the Donor Bill of Rights.
Is a prep course or study guide required to sit the exam?
No. CFRE International states that reviewing prep tools or purchasing prep materials is not required to sit for the exam and does not guarantee a passing score. Optional resources include the Test Content Outline, a study plan template, a glossary, a reading list, a practice exam, and study groups.