What is a Certified Fraud Examiner?

The Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential is a professional certification for people working in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence and investigation.

Administered by ACFE Global, the CFE credential is recognised internationally as a standard of professional excellence in the anti-fraud profession. 

Earning the CFE credential demonstrates that you have met ACFE's requirements for education and professional experience, demonstrated your knowledge by passing the CFE Exam, and committed to the professional and ethical standards expected of CFEs. 

Why become a CFE?

Fraud can affect organisations across every industry and sector, creating a need for professionals who understand how fraud occurs and how it can be identified, investigated and prevented.

The CFE credential provides a recognised way to demonstrate your knowledge and professional experience in this field.

The CFE Exam itself assesses knowledge across four key areas:

• Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes
• Law
• Investigation
• Fraud Prevention and Deterrence.

Becoming a CFE also connects you with the wider ACFE Global professional community and its training, resources and professional development opportunities.

Who can become a CFE?

You do not need to follow one particular career path to pursue the CFE credential.

ACFE Global uses an eligibility points system based on education and fraud-related professional experience. Candidates need at least 40 qualifying points to take the CFE Exam and at least 50 points to become certified. 

To earn the credential, candidates must also have at least two years of professional experience in a field directly or indirectly related to the detection or deterrence of fraud. ACFE Global notes that candidates who have sufficient eligibility points may be able to sit the examination before completing the full experience requirement, with the credential awarded once all certification requirements are met. 

Because individual circumstances differ, we recommend using ACFE Global's eligibility information and points calculator to determine whether you currently meet the requirements.

How do I become a CFE?

The CFE credential is administered by ACFE Global, rather than ACFE New Zealand.

ACFE Global identifies five core requirements for earning the credential:

1. Become an ACFE Associate Member.
2. Meet the eligibility points requirements.
3. Meet the fraud-related professional experience requirement.
4. Pass the CFE Exam.
5. Agree to abide by the ACFE Code of Professional Ethics. 

The certification process, application requirements and examination procedures are managed by ACFE Global. The CFE Exam Candidate Handbook provides detailed guidance for candidates through the certification process, including eligibility, applying for and taking the exam, and certification requirements. 

Explore the eligibility requirements

Preparing for the CFE Exam

Preparation will look different for every candidate.

ACFE Global provides preparation options and resources for candidates and recommends reviewing the CFE Exam Content Outline, developing a study plan and selecting a preparation approach suited to your circumstances and learning style. It also offers opportunities for candidates to connect with other members through initiatives such as its 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge and Mentoring Program. 

For current information about exam preparation options, study resources and the examination itself, visit ACFE Global.

Explore CFE Exam information

90-day CFE Exam Challenge

Looking for some structure and support while preparing for the CFE Exam?

The 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge, run by ACFE Global, is designed to help candidates work through their CFE Exam preparation over a 90-day period. The Challenge provides a structured timeline, regular study tips and check-ins, and access to a private ACFE Community group where participants can connect with others preparing for the exam. 

The Challenge is free to ACFE members and is offered at scheduled times throughout the year. For current dates, preparation requirements and registration, visit the ACFE Global website. 

Support from ACFE New Zealand

ACFE New Zealand members who are working towards the CFE credential can also connect with their local branch to discuss what support may be available, including financial support, mentoring or other assistance.

Learn more and register for the 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge

ACFE New Zealand and your CFE journey

While the CFE credential and examination are administered by ACFE Global, becoming part of ACFE New Zealand gives you the opportunity to connect locally with CFEs and others working across the anti-fraud profession.

Through our Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch branches, members can take part in local events, professional development and networking opportunities and connect with others who have undertaken, or may also be working towards, the CFE credential.

Join ACFE New Zealand

Ready to take the next step?

All CFE applications, eligibility assessments, exam procedures and certification requirements are managed by ACFE Global.

Visit ACFE Global for the latest requirements and to start your CFE journey.

Explore the CFE Credential