DipFA will be benchmarked to QCA level 4, meeting one of the likely recommendations of the Retail Distribution Review (RDR). However, unlike alternative qualifications at level 4, this new qualification does not concentrate solely on the acquisition of more technical knowledge, instead paying greater attention to the practicalities of financial advice by building on the individual’s experience and encouraging them to demonstrate their approach to client relations.
Mark Roberts, head of financial regulation at the ifs School of Finance said, “The fact several hundred people have registered an interest in taking DipFA within three or four days of the announcement suggests that the ifs School of Finance’s different approach is really striking a chord with the adviser community.
“The qualification will not be available until the autumn but the fact hundreds of advisers have already signed up demonstrates their commitment to further developing their skills – progress that both industry and consumers will doubtless welcome.”
