Certified Financial Education Instructor® (CFEI®)

The Leading Financial Literacy Certification for Individuals Teaching Personal Finance in the Caribbean

The Certified Financial Education Instructor® (CFEI®) training provides industry-leading certification that prepares you to teach personal finance confidently and competently – and to demonstrate program impact.

If you’re dedicated to promoting real financial capability, the CFEI® program provides you with the training, credibility, and resources to make a real difference. The training teaches classroom-tested pedagogy; practical measurement strategies; and behavior-focused methods that transfer across in-person workshops, digital learning, workplace programs, and community-wide initiatives.

Successful graduates possess proven educational structures, assessment toolkits, a verified digital badge, and the self-assurance to deliver positive results. With more than 6,000 alumni, more than 300,000 training hours completed, and the only recognized national standards for personal finance educators, CFEI® is the credential trusted by organizations that seek rigor, accountability, and actionable results.

Join a growing network of CFEIs across the Caribbean who report greater instructor satisfaction, better learner outcomes, and enhanced opportunities to take their programs to scale.

Certification Tour, Graduate Features, & Bonus Presentation Resources

  • CFEI® Tour: See how the program works and explore the journey step by step.

  • Graduate Features: Hear real stories from instructors making an impact.

  • Bonus Resources: Get exclusive teaching tools to elevate your financial education programs.

This is more than a course – it’s your opportunity to join a global network of educators committed to empowering individuals and communities with practical, life-changing financial skills.

By accessing the NFEC’s material, you agree to comply with the full terms.

Join Over 5,000 Enrolled CFEI® Champions Providing Others Qualified Financial Education

Certification Tour, Graduate Features, & Bonus Presentation Resources

  • CFEI® Tour: See how the program works and explore the journey step by step.

  • Graduate Features: Hear real stories from instructors making an impact.

  • Bonus Resources: Get exclusive teaching tools to elevate your financial education programs.

This is more than a course – it’s your opportunity to join a global network of educators committed to empowering individuals and communities with practical, life-changing financial skills.

By accessing the NFEC’s material, you agree to comply with the full terms.

Join Over 5,000 Enrolled CFEI® Champions Providing Others Qualified Financial Education

Who the CFEI® Serves

For educators across sectors, delivery methods, and levels of experience – the CFEI® training offers practical instruction, flexible materials, and a clear pathway to lead programs for maximum impact.

All Industries Welcome

Educators, entrepreneurs, financial service experts, content creators, nonprofit leaders, benefits professionals, community organizers, and volunteers. If you support people making better financial decisions, the CFEI® helps you teach with impact.

All Education Modes are Welcome

Classroom teaching, workshops, workplace wellness days, community initiatives, blended learning, webinars, and live streams. Whether you deliver training to small groups in person or reach thousands of people digitally, our curriculum and educator support are adaptable to your audience and format.

All Experience Levels are Welcome

Novice or expert, academic or self-taught, just starting out or practiced – anyone who feels passionate about teaching personal finance can flourish. We provide clear learning pathways, pedagogical training, and turnkey resources so you can progress from interest to instruction that gets results.

Topics & Requirements

The CFEI® coursework meets benchmarks for top academic rigor while delivering financial education with practical applicability. Graduates have the skills and teaching techniques that empower them to motivate, engage, educate, and inspire participants of all ages to take positive action toward financial wellness.

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Topics Covered

Foundations of Financial Education Practice

Clarity of mission and role as an educator, with a focus on the urgent need for financial literacy and advocacy for learners across all life stages and communities. You’ll gain the confidence to position yourself as a leader in this movement, equipped to inspire change and expand access to financial education where it’s needed most.

Financial Psychology & Behavioral Finance

Comprehensive knowledge of financial psychology, principles of behavioral finance, and models of change that help learners overcome emotional, cultural, and cognitive barriers to healthy money management. This knowledge helps you build deep rapport with learners, guiding them toward sustainable behavior change rather than stopgap measures.

Educational Philosophies & Teaching Methodologies

How to apply evidence-based learning theories and instructional techniques to increase engagement among diverse learners, foster retention, and instill practical financial skills with confidence. By taking a flexible approach, you’ll become a more effective instructor who can meet learners where they are and create real impact.

Personal Finance Subject Matter

Deep content knowledge across the fundamental topic areas of financial wellness: budgeting, saving, credit, loans and debt, income, account management, and supportive financial systems. This section covers some U.S.-based systems, but the exam focuses on core international financial understanding – neutral, non-country concepts (budgeting, saving, borrowing, risk, basic investing) framed in universal scenarios.

Instructional Design & Lesson Planning

Expertise in designing high-impact programs using the structured Discovery → Define → Design framework, ensuring that programs meet learner needs and educational standards and promote measurable outcomes. Attaining these skills ensures that your programs are professional, well-organized, and able to demonstrate measurable success to funders and stakeholders.

Program Execution & Learner Experience

The ability to deliver in-person sessions professionally and flexibly, setting up supportive, safe, engaging environments that inspire learners to take action in the real world. You’ll receive practical techniques to handle any instructional environment confidently – including classrooms, workshops, or online instruction.

Professional Responsibilities & Educator Standards

Proven commitment to ethical integrity, professionalism, accurate record-keeping, and ongoing professional development – engendering trust, respect, and lasting program excellence. This foundation strengthens your reputation as a trusted professional whose work meets the highest standards in education.

The CFEI® program is designed to be adaptable, user-friendly, and supportive.

Graduation Requirements

The course empowers anyone with a commitment to financial education to succeed. From self-paced learning to professional acknowledgement, every training component is designed to help educators build confidence.

  • Prerequisites & Technical Requirements
    No prior experience is required. Learners must be at least 13 years of age and have access to a computer, internet connection, and audio capability. The training provides all the instruction and support to guide participants toward successful completion.
  • Prerequisites & Technical Requirements
    A passion for teaching personal finance is the only requirement. The course offers the tools, knowledge, and support to help learners succeed.

  • Self-Paced Learning
    The pilot program is self-paced and has a goal to track the actual time learners spend on task. Although internal estimates indicated approximately 80 instructional hours, total completion time is likely to vary. Individuals who participate in the pilot will inform the final decisions on instructional hours and CEUs.

  • Online DeliveryTraining is presented using lessons, videos, workbooks, and activities – all online. Optional live Friday sessions offer additional support and a forum to connect with other students.

  • Final Exam & Knowledge Checks
    A score of 80% or higher on the final exam is required for successful program completion; and 80% or better on all chapter knowledge quizzes. Opportunities to retake and instructional support are given.

  • Accessibility & Accommodations
    For learners with documented accessibility needs, we offer reasonable accommodations. Learners are encouraged to request accommodations in advance to ensure successful participation.

  • Certification & Recognition
    Graduates receive the official CFEI® certification logo and CEU letter upon completion. Additional testing and performance assessments are required every three years; passing a short exam or verifying your teaching practice allow you to maintain your credential.

  • Renewal
    Every three years you must renew your credential by taking a short exam or confirming your teaching practice.

Graduate Survey Data

The NFEC conducts surveys throughout the course to gauge the impact of the training and track participant progress. These data reflect responses from 1,655 graduates who reported their experiences, outcomes, and the ways the CFEI® program has influenced their ability to deliver effective financial education.

94%

Increase of Confidence

Do you feel more confident and qualified to empower others with financial wellness programming?

96%

Recommend

Would you recommend that other financial educators complete this class before teaching financial literacy?

Standards for Financial Educators in the Caribbean

The NFEC created the Framework for Teaching Personal Finance – the first and only national industry benchmarks for financial educators. The Framework sets forth clear standards that define effective teaching practices and ability to give learners practical financial skills.

Developed in partnership with the Danielson Group and aligned with the InTASC model core teaching standards, this set of standards modifies Charlotte Danielson’s Framework for Teaching specifically to teach financial literacy. Based in constructivist principles, the standards define 22 research-based components that lay out the knowledge, capabilities, and performance expectations educators must meet; and provide a roadmap of educational practices linked to measurable learner outcomes and continued professional development. Danielson’s Framework for Teaching is underpinned by evidence-based research and broadly recognized by academics, administrators, and policymakers. The framework outlines the skill sets well-qualified educators should possess and performance levels that define educator excellence. The Framework for Teaching has been designated an approved model in more than 20 U.S. states, making it the most widely-adopted teaching framework in the United States.

What’s Provided in The CFEI® Coursework

Training & Resources

Receive the training and resources necessary to earn your Certified Financial Education Instructor® credential. This program combines practical lessons, hands-on activities, and tools designed to build your teaching skills and demonstrate measurable impact.

  • eLearning Education Center
    Over 100 videos, interactive modules, and real-world activities.

  • Course Manual & Framework for Teaching
    Digital instructor guide plus standards and guidelines.

  • Personal Consultation Call
    A 30-minute one-on-one planning session with the program director.

  • Continuing Education
    Optional live training (weekly Friday sessions) and ongoing learning opportunities.

Training Resources

Testing & Graduation

The certification final exam is taken online; a score of 80% is required to pass. If you do not pass on the first attempt, you may retake the exam. Once you pass the final exam and all chapter tests, you have officially graduated and receive the following:

  • Certified Financial Education Instructor® & CFEI® Credentials
    Use of titles, digital logos, and credentials for use on websites and professional profiles.

  • Testing & Course Assessment
    Take the timed exam on your computer at no additional cost.

  • Continuing Education Letter & Topic Badging
    Earn topic badges with every chapter and a CEU letter documenting total program hours.

  • Certificate of Completion Upon Graduation
    Delivered electronically for Caribbean graduates.

Certification Process

Awareness, Advocacy, & Funding

To highlight your achievements, help you raise awareness, and attract funding for your program, the NFEC provides an awareness package that builds your positioning as a qualified financial instructor. Receive exposure to our website visitors and emphasize your role as a financial wellness advocate with these free resources:

  • Custom Webpage for Graduates
    Features Your Personal Photo & Bio, Your Organization, and/ or Your Event

  • Demonstrate Expertise & Leadership
    Publishing, Case Study Building, & Advocacy Opportunities

  • Eligible to Participate in NFEC Promotional Campaigns
    Financial Educators Day, Cash for Candy, and 6 Other Advocacy Campaign

  • Graduate & Organizational Spotlights
    Select Graduate Webpages, Organization Spotlights, & Events are Featured via NFEC Social Media Accounts

Advocacy Support

Limited Bonus for CFEI Graduates

As a bonus, CFEI® graduates receive a Program Toolkit ($349 value) at no cost ($0). This package saves time, builds professionalism, and makes it easy to showcase measurable outcomes – helping you fund and scale your program by demonstrating results.

  • Pre-programming: checklists, pre-participation surveys, marketing/registration templates, and full email sequences.
  • Implementation: organizer support resources, promotional handouts, and event checklists (including décor assets).
  • Post-programming: recognition certificates/badges, follow-up assessments, and continuing education materials.
  • Measurement & reporting: assessment bank, KPI templates, and a post-event impact report.
  • Case study template: a polished, ready-to-use report for showcasing outcomes, stories, and metrics to partners and funders.
$349

$349 value, provided complimentary to you

Enroll in The CFEI® Course

By now it’s clear that the CFEI financial literacy certification training offers the skill sets you need to teach financial literacy effectively. Successful program completion will enhance your credibility and self-assurance when teaching. Just register below or contact us using your selected method.

The CFEI® was thoughtfully developed to meet those needs. Now in its eighth version, the course incorporates input from more than 100 subject-matter experts – educators, financial professionals, behavioral researchers, and specialists in niche personal finance subjects – and aligns with evidence-based instructional standards to ensure that you meet criteria for a well-qualified financial education instructor.

Today, you are invited to join the financial literacy movement. Become an active participant working to maximize your impact as a personal finance instructor. Click “Enroll Now” to register.

NFEC Mission & Social Vision

The National Financial Educators Council’s mission is rooted in providing people with the knowledge and guidance they need to foster greater financial well-being. To accomplish that mission, we mobilize a diverse global force of financial wellness champions and empower them with resources and training so they can effectively support others in their communities to work toward greater financial security.

We do so by setting rigorous standards, developing evidence-based curriculum and assessments, and partnering with schools, employers, and community organizations to scale proven programs. By measuring outcomes and continuously refining our approaches, we ensure that our work produces real, lasting improvements in people’s financial lives.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

This training program is designed to provide unbiased, research-based education. All program developers have disclosed any financial or personal relationships that could present a conflict of interest. Any potential conflicts have been reviewed and managed to ensure the integrity and objectivity of this course.

The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) is an independent education organization. We do not offer financial products or services, and we do not accept compensation from financial institutions for promoting specific tools, services, or advice within the CFEI program. Our sole focus is on delivering high-quality, evidence-based financial education and empowering learners without commercial influence.

Furthermore, all NFEC instructors and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are also required to complete a formal conflict of interest disclosure and review process during onboarding and for subsequent learning events. Any reported potential conflicts are evaluated, documented, and approved or denied in accordance with established standards designed to protect participant trust, instructional impartiality, and the integrity of NFEC programs and accreditation requirements.

Equal Opportunity, Non-Discrimination, & Accessibility Statement

The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) provides equal access and opportunity to all individuals seeking to enroll in the Certified Financial Education Instructor® (CFEI®) program. Enrollment decisions are based on program eligibility criteria and are not influenced by non-merit factors. The NFEC values the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that learners bring to the financial education field.

The NFEC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital or parental status, military or veteran status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

The CFEI program is designed to be accessible to a wide range of learners. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with documented disabilities or accessibility needs. Learners who require accommodations or who have questions regarding technical, physical, or accessibility requirements for course participation are encouraged to contact the NFEC in advance or at any point during enrollment so appropriate support can be provided.

Learner Identity and Course Access Policy

To access online course content, each learner must use the same email address provided when the course was purchased or a seat was reserved. The learner must also create a unique password that meets NFEC password requirements. Login credentials may not be shared or used by another individual.

By registering for, accessing, and completing the course, including any required assessments, the learner confirms that they are the individual authorized to participate in the course. The person completing the coursework and assessments must be the same person registered for the course and identified as the recipient of any continuing education units (CEUs), certificates, or other completion credentials.

CEUS: 4.8 (48 development hours)

Criteria to earn CEUs: Pass all assessments with a score of 80% or higher

Prerequisites: None

Material Requirements: Computer, Internet Connection, Computer Speakers or Headset

Course Summary: The Certified Financial Education Instructor course was designed to equip educators with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to design and deliver high-quality financial education and prove the impact of their programming.

CFEI® Professional Development Course

$396
  • $129 annually starting year 2
  • Training & Resources: eLearning Education Center, Course Manual & Framework for Teaching, Personal Consultation Call, Continuing Education (live trainings)
  • Testing & Graduation: Certification Exam, CFEI® Credential & Digital Badge, Course Assessment, Continuing Education Letter & Topic Badging, Graduation Certificate
  • Awareness, Advocacy, & Funding: Custom Graduate Webpage, Publishing & Case Study Support, Eligibility for NFEC Campaigns, Graduate & Organizational Spotlights
  • Limited Bonus: Graduate Program Toolkit: Resources for each student touchpoint – before, during, and after programming; course assessments for learners; case study reporting template.
Enroll Now

Guarantee, Terms, & Renewal

We offer a 30-day, full-money-back guarantee. An annual maintenance fee of $129 is required beginning 365 days after purchase and covers ongoing access to training, tools, and testing needed to complete your certification and keep your enrollment active. Full recertification – including required training and testing – is required every three years to maintain CFEI® status. Read the complete terms and conditions.

Financial education across the Caribbean is gaining strong momentum as ministries of education, regional agencies, and community-based organizations increasingly prioritize preparing young people for real-world financial responsibilities. Throughout island nations and territories, the demand for skilled financial literacy instructors is rising in tandem with broader goals tied to economic resilience, workforce preparedness, and entrepreneurial growth. Teachers, nonprofit leaders, and youth development practitioners are actively pursuing professional training that enables them to deliver structured, outcomes-driven instruction aligned with regional education frameworks. As financial education initiatives continue to expand across the Caribbean, the urgency for qualified professionals capable of producing measurable, lasting impact has become increasingly clear.

At the secondary school level, financial literacy programs are often embedded within subjects such as economics, business education, and social studies, although the consistency and effectiveness of implementation can differ widely depending on educator training and resource availability. Institutions across the Caribbean are recognizing that high-impact financial education extends beyond basic subject matter expertise. It requires educators who can design engaging lesson plans, foster practical skill development, and guide students to apply financial concepts in real-life situations. The Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI) program offers Caribbean educators a comprehensive framework that combines practical teaching strategies, structured curriculum design, and professional standards to elevate instructional quality and strengthen learner outcomes in both academic and community environments.

For professionals engaged in education, workforce initiatives, youth services, or financial inclusion efforts throughout the Caribbean, obtaining the CFEI designation represents a clear commitment to high standards and professional accountability. This certification empowers instructors to build programs that reflect the unique financial challenges and opportunities within Caribbean communities, including employment pathways, small business development, saving habits, and informed financial decision-making. As financial literacy continues to gain traction as a regional priority, certified instructors serve as essential contributors to delivering consistent, high-quality education that supports sustainable financial well-being for individuals, families, and communities across the Caribbean.

Arnaldo Maldonado

Financial Services Professional & Financial Literacy Advocate

Arnaldo Maldonado is passionate about financial matters with more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry such as insurance, banking and investments. He has been lecturer and professor in finance at Universities in Puerto Rico. He has a BA in Accounting, a master’s in finance, and is an NFEC Certified Financial Education Instructor.

Dwaine Forbes

Financial Services Professional & Financial Literacy Advocate

Dwaine Forbes is uniquely qualified to be a speaker in the field of personal finance and personal development. His academic achievements are stellar, but his personal story of overcoming illiteracy at age fifteen and the financial battles he encountered over the years are even more compelling.

Lay Hing De Kort-Yee

Financial Services Professional & Financial Literacy Advocate

Lay Hing de Kort-Yee is a professional whose passion is to help communities and families thrive. She believes a sure way to do that is through financial education and she is an NFEC Certified Financial Education Instructor. As the saying goes: “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime”. She believes in dreams, but most importantly she believes that dreams can be accomplished by the use of financial wisdom.

Pamela Carmichael

Financial Services Professional & Financial Literacy Advocate

Pamela Carmichael is a passionate educator of financial empowerment for people. Her Financial Empowerment Initiative produces workshops and seminars centered on financial literacy education. Pamela is concerned over the general lack of fundamental and basic financial education of both youth and adults. Pamela combines her passion to see others’ success with her 18+ years’ experience in the financial services industry to train others to successfully manage their finances. Her concern for those who struggle financially led her to authoring the award-winning book titled Financial Empowerment: Re-align Your Finances to God’s Will. Pamela’s desire to deliver quality financial education inspired her to gain the NFEC Certified Financial Education Instructor designation.