FAAC® Candidate Resources
To help you prepare for the certification knowledge exam, utilize the helpful resources and guidance below. Note that NASFAA’s resources are not required to prepare for or to pass the knowledge exam. As you create personal study tools, refer first to NASFAA's Guidance on Study Resources and Use of AI.
Facilitated Preparation
Online Exam Preparation Workshops
The NASFAA Certification Exam Preparation Online Workshop is an opportunity for motivated financial aid professionals to gain helpful insight about the knowledge exam. This facilitated, virtual experience will be led by NASFAA training staff members and currently certified FAACs. Each week, participants will meet online for high-level review of the 12 content areas covered on the exam.
Participants will receive complimentary access to:
- The Self-Assessment Worksheet,
- The Exam Preparation Guide,
- The CFAA Practice Exam (only available to workshop attendees), and
- The Knowledge Exam
For 2025-26, the workshop package (valued at $525) is available for only $299.
Register for an Upcoming Workshop | Justification Letter | Meet the Facilitators
State and Regional In-Person Exam Preparation Workshops
Attend an in-person workshop hosted by your state or regional association and led by certified FAACs using NASFAA’s Exam Preparation Guide and materials. This full-day (approximately eight hours) session features group discussions and activities to help you prepare for the Knowledge Exam.
Participants will receive complimentary access to:
- The Self-Assessment Worksheet,
- The Exam Preparation Guide,
- The CFAA Practice Exam (only available to workshop attendees), and
- The Knowledge Exam
While the workshop package is valued at $525, the price may vary depending on the state or region. Reach out to your state or regional association for more information about the availability of workshops in your area.
View Events Calendar | Justification Letter | Information for States & Regions
Independent Preparation
Self-Assessment Worksheet 
Start your exam preparation journey by evaluating your existing Title IV knowledge using NASFAA's complimentary Self-Assessment Worksheet.
The worksheet includes a detailed outline of each of the twelve major content areas identified in the Exam Content Outline in the Candidate Handbook, along with the percentage range of the test devoted to each area in parentheses.
While reviewing the worksheet, ask yourself:
- Do I have a good understanding of the content area?
- Do I use this knowledge area regularly at work?
Focus your preparation on topics where you feel less confident or you've had minimal first-hand experience.
Download Self-Assessment Worksheet
Exam Preparation Guide
The Exam Preparation Guide covers concepts directly relevant to the administration of Title IV aid, within the scope of the twelve major content areas—or "knowledge domains"—evaluated on the Knowledge Exam. Each section includes assessments to test both your knowledge and ability to apply these principles.
Access to this guide is included with Exam Preparation Workshops. Candidates participating in facilitated training should not purchase the guide separately because previous purchases of certification-related products will not be refunded.
Additional Resources
View the full list of Core Resources in the Candidate Handbook. Generally available resources provided by the US Department of Education will complement and enhance the knowledge you already possess, especially the FSA Handbook.
Compare Your Exam Preparation Pathways
Use this comparison guide to determine which pathway best aligns with your needs and goals. It outlines the resources available and included within each option in a clear, easy-to-read format.
Review the Certification Insights Webinar
This on-demand webinar, hosted by NASFAA's Certification Team and a panel of certified FAACs, provides a detailed overview of the CFAA Program. Learn why you might want to pursue certification, ways to prepare for the exam, what the testing experience was like, and how FAACs have benefitted from the designation.
Online Testing Process
Review the technical requirements outlined online.
Strategies for Managing Test Anxiety
If you are nervous about taking NASFAA’s certification exam, don't let fear become a barrier. Consider these strategies based on advice from experts.
For More Information
Candidate Handbook | Certification Program FAQs | Reach Out Via Email