Getting Started to Become a CFE
Explore how to begin your Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) program, including the core components and ways to earn CFE credits through CFE-approved learning, then start the CFE application process to becoming a CFE Today. This section also provides details on how to renew your CFE and answers to Frequently Asked Questions.
On This Page:
Receiving Your CFE Designation
Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) Program Overview
Highly regarded and widely recognized as a symbol of leadership and accomplishment throughout the franchise community, the CFE is IFA’s flagship certification program. Pursuing and maintaining CFE certification is a commitment to mastering the highest level of skills and knowledge in franchising.
Use this guide to navigate the application process, program requirements, and available course resources.
CFE Application Fees
- IFA Member: $499
- Non-Member: $915
Candidates have up to three (3) consecutive years from enrollment to complete the program.
How to Apply
- Complete the online CFE application form.
- Submit your application fee via the online portal.
- Applications are processed within 3 business days.
Important: To receive the IFA member rate, add your company affiliation at member.franchise.org:
- Go to “My Affiliations” in your account sidebar.
- Click “Add Affiliation” and enter your company name in the “Account Name” field.
- If your company is a member, it will appear in the results—select and click “Add.”
- For help, contact cfe@franchise.org.
CFE Program Requirements
To earn the CFE designation, candidates must complete 150 approved credits across three core areas:
Core Components (60 Credits)
- IFA Foundations of Franchising (52 credits)
Six-week, cohort-based online course (monthly start dates), delivered in partnership with the University of Louisville. - IFA Fran-Guard® (8 credits)
An 8-hour franchise law and compliance course, available via IFA Academy and select IFA events. - CFE Final Exam (Required)
The Final Exam consists of 50 randomized questions that focus on franchise management and compliance. Students are allotted 2 hours to complete the exam and 2 overall attempts to pass the exam. The CFE Study Guide provides a knowledge base of best practices in key areas of franchise management and prepares learners for the CFE Final Exam.
Education Credits (50 Credits)
Earned through self-paced, CFE-approved courses via:
- IFA Academy
- OnDemand recordings
- Approved learning partners
Browse the full catalog on IFA Academy or the CFE Event Calendar.
Getting Started on IFA Academy
IFA Academy is your hub for online coursework, tracking progress, and receiving credit. Here’s how to begin:
- Visit the IFA Academy information site to review tutorials, FAQs, and the user guide.
- Log in using your member.franchise.org credentials or create a free account.
- Browse the course catalog and enroll in available CFE courses.
IFA LIVE Learning (40 Credits)
IFA LIVE credits are earned by attending CFE-approved events with a live instructor, such as:
- IFA conferences and summits
- Virtual classroom cohorts
- Live webinars
Upcoming LIVE credit opportunities are listed on the CFE Events Calendar.
Questions? Contact cfe@franchise.org for support or additional information.