The IFTA Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) consists of CFTe I and II, which together constitute a complete professional program. The two examinations culminate in the award of this internationally recognized professional qualification in Technical Analysis.

Dates

The CFTe I exam is available year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide, IFTA’s computer-based testing provider. During the registration process, candidates can select their preferred exam date and location. Register now for the CFTe I.

The CFTe II is offered twice annually, typically in April and October. Register here for the next CFTe II on 23 October 2025. The deadline to register for this exam is 12 September 2025. No registrations will be accepted after this date. Note: The CFTe II will be proctored online via Zoom. Details about the process will be distributed to candidates closer to the exam date.

Locations

The CFTe I examinations are offered at testing centers worldwide through Pearson VUE, IFTA’s computer-based testing provider.  After registering for the CFTe I through IFTA, you will receive an email from Pearson VUE with instructions on how to log in and schedule your exam. You may view exam locations at “Find a test center“. Please contact IFTA if you have questions.

The CFTe II is proctored via Zoom. Candidates may take the exam from their office or home.

Languages

The CFTe I exams are currently offered in English, German, Spanish, Arabic, French, and Chinese. The CFTe II exam is offered in English, German, Italian, French, Arabic, Spanish, and Chinese. Additional fees may apply to candidates requesting the exam in a non-English language.

Cost

Examinations & Preparation Guidelines

Passing the CFTe I and CFTe II culminates in the award of an international professional qualification in technical analysis. The exams are intended to test your technical skills, knowledge, and understanding of ethics and the market.

The program is designed for self-study. Local societies may offer preparation courses to assist potential candidates.

An IFTA syllabus-compliant Home Study Course, which prepares candidates for both the IFTA CFTe I and II examinations, is available from one of its member societies, the STA in the UK, here.

Exemptions

Individuals who have completed IFTA-accredited certification programs through the Egyptian Society of Technical Analysts (ESTA), Nippon Technical Analysts Association (NTAA), and Society of Technical Analysts (STA) are exempt and may proceed directly to the MFTA program. See below for more details:

• Individuals who have completed Levels I, II, & III of the Certified ESTA Technical Analyst Program (CETA) through the Egyptian Society of Technical Analysts (ESTA) and have been awarded the CETA diploma are exempt from both levels and may proceed to the MFTA Program.
• Individuals who have passed Level I and Level II of the certification program offered by the Nippon Technical Analysts Association (NTAA) and have been awarded the designation of Chartered Member of the Nippon Technical Analysts Association (CMTA) are also exempt from both levels and may proceed to the MFTA Program.
• Beginning January 2013, individuals who have passed the STA Foundation and Diploma Courses offered by the Society of Technical Analysts (STA) and have been awarded the designation of Member of the Society of Technical Analysts (MSTA) are eligible to receive the CFTe certification (please contact STA’s Administration for procedures) and may proceed with IFTA’s MFTA Program. Before January 2013, holders of the Society of Technical Analysts (STA) Diploma were exempt from Level II but had to pass Level I (a multiple-choice test) before qualifying for the CFTe certification.

Additionally,

• *Individuals who passed the CMT Association Chartered Market Technician (CMT) levels I and II are eligible to receive the CFTe certification. Remit the application and provide a pass confirmation from the CMT Association, including the dates attained. There is a one-time application fee of $550 US. *Important Update: The provision allowing individuals who have passed the Chartered Market Technician (CMT) Levels I and II to qualify for the Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) credential will be discontinued for CMT II exams taken on or after January 1, 2025. This decision follows a thorough review of the Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) program to ensure it consistently meets the highest standards of professional excellence and relevance. IFTA is dedicated to preserving the integrity and value of the CFTe certification and believes this change will help us maintain these standards. Additionally, we have noted that the CMT material may no longer align with our study materials, further supporting the need for this adjustment.

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