How to Get CFE Certification: Eligibility, Experience and Exam Path Explained 

If you are researching how to get a CFE certification, start with eligibility rather than study materials. The Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation is issued by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) and uses a points-based eligibility model. Candidates need 40 points to sit for the examination, while earning the credential requires 50 points, two years of qualifying fraud-related experience, ACFE membership and successful completion of all three current CFE exam sections.

What Is a Certified Fraud Examiner?

A Certified Fraud Examiner is a professional who has demonstrated knowledge across major anti-fraud disciplines.

The credential covers areas such as:

• Fraud schemes

• Financial crimes

• Investigations

• Legal issues

• Fraud risk assessment

• Corporate controls

• Prevention

• Deterrence

A CFE may work in internal audit, forensic accounting, compliance, corporate investigations, law enforcement, financial crime or risk management. Professionals who focus on fraud risk and controls may also find the CRMA certification relevant, since it covers risk management assurance.

How Does CFE Eligibility Work?

Unlike certifications that simply require a degree, CFE uses an eligibility-points system.

Candidates need 40 points before taking the examination.

They need 50 total points before becoming certified.

Points may come from education, professional experience and certain recognized credentials. For comparison, the CIA uses a different model based on education and years of experience, which is explained in this guide to CIA certification requirements, exam cost and eligibility.

Education Points

A bachelor's degree or higher generally provides 40 points.

Other higher education can contribute points proportionally.

Experience Points

Relevant professional experience also contributes toward eligibility.

Examples can include:

• Fraud investigations

• Accounting

• Auditing

• Compliance

• Loss prevention

• Fraud-related legal work

• Fraud risk management

Candidates must ultimately possess at least two years of relevant professional experience to receive the credential.

Can You Earn CFE Without a Degree?

Yes.

A university degree is not an absolute requirement for ACFE certification.

Professional fraud-related experience can substitute for academic education according to ACFE's eligibility rules.

This makes the credential accessible to experienced investigators and fraud professionals who entered the field through non-traditional education routes.

What Is on the Current CFE Exam?

Since June 2026, the CFE exam uses three sections.

Fraud Schemes and Financial Crimes

120 questions | 2.5 hours

This section addresses fraud schemes, financial crimes, accounting concepts and methods used to identify fraudulent activity.

Fraud Investigations and Legal Issues

120 questions | 2.5 hours

Candidates are tested on investigations, evidence, interviews, legal principles, reporting and related professional responsibilities.

Fraud Prevention and Deterrence

70 questions | 1.5 hours

This section addresses governance, controls, fraud risk, ethics and methods organizations can use to reduce fraud exposure.

Candidates must score 75% or higher on every section.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a CFE?

The exam application currently costs $480 and includes the first attempt at each required section.

Other potential costs include:

• ACFE membership

• Review course

• CFE Exam Prep Course

• Study materials

• Retakes

• Exam extensions

A failed section currently carries a $110 retake fee.

When comparing the Certified Fraud Examiner cost, calculate the complete certification process rather than only the exam application. If you are also weighing an internal audit credential, this breakdown of CIA exam cost, eligibility and training can help with the comparison.

How Should You Prepare?

Use the updated three-part structure.

A practical study strategy is:

1. Begin with the current exam outline.

2. Study one section at a time.

3. Complete practice questions after every topic.

4. Review why incorrect answers were wrong.

5. Practice timed question sets.

6. Complete realistic exam simulations before scheduling.

Because each section must be passed independently, candidates should identify weak sections instead of relying only on an overall practice-test percentage. A similar section-by-section approach is covered in our CIA syllabus and preparation guide.

What Happens After You Pass?

Passing the exam does not automatically mean the certification is issued.

Candidates must also satisfy:

• 50 eligibility points

• Two years of qualifying experience

• Membership requirements

• Professional recommendations and documentation

• ACFE certification standards

Candidates researching how to become a Certified Fraud Examiner should therefore confirm their eligibility before investing heavily in examination preparation.