Course Length: This is a self-paced online course.  We estimate it requires 8 to 12 weeks to complete.

Course Description:

Candidates who are planning on earning the prestigious Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) designation from the Institute of Certified Bankers will find this course an additional resource and convenient way to review for the exam. It is designed as a companion study tool to the four-volume ABA Wealth and Advisory Personal Trust Series (WAPTS). The study quizzes from the WAPTS are used in the online course computer-graded quizzes to provide instant feedback. Participants are encouraged to take the Sample Test for each of the exam sections first to determine where they should concentrate their study. The quizzes may be taken multiple times. As a capstone to the course, learners may take an exam modeled after the CTFA exam (which is not available in the WAPTS). A complete list of subjects covered by the course and WAPTS is included at the end of this document.

There will be a discussion board for each section of the assignments so participants can ask questions from a qualified mentor as well as review and discuss other student's questions and comments.

Audience:

This course is designed for those preparing for the Certified Trust and Financial Advisor (CTFA) Exam. The Certified Trust and Financial Advisor© (CTFA) is applicable to financial services professionals whose primary function and expertise focus on the provision of fiduciary services related to trusts, estates, guardianships and individual asset management accounts.

 

Learning Objectives:

At the end of the course, participants should be familiar with the following areas:

• Fiduciary and Trust Activities
• Tax Law and Tax Planning 
• Investments Management
• Financial Planning

Textbook:

This course uses the ABA Wealth and Advisory Personal Trust Series, published by the American Bankers Association, 2008. The four-volume series of workbooks will be provided to participants and the cost is included in the price of the course.  Those who already own the current series may purchase the online course independently.

 

How this Course Works:

The ABA Online Review Course for the CTFA Examination is a self-paced online course and which allows open enrollment.  The weekly enrollment format allows participants to register anytime and be added to the course on the Monday following ABA's receipt of their registration.

 
Participants should take the Sample Tests first to identify the areas where they should concentrate their study. After studying the various sections of the course, they will be able to take the review questions from each section. After completing these activities, candidates may take a sample CTFA exam. Access to all lessons and quizzes at the online course site will be available for the duration of the course. A discussion board will have forums organized according to subject matter. There, participants are encouraged to share insights and thoughts with each other as well as to post inquiries to the mentor.

Prerequisites: None

Required Software: 
Microsoft Internet Explorer Browser 6.0 or higher or Netscape Browser 6.2 or higher