Understanding the FSA Credential from the IFRS Foundation: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the FSA Credential registration portal, your gateway to mastering the Financial Sustainability Assessment (FSA) and advancing your career in sustainability accounting. This guide provides essential information about the FSA Credential, including registration, fees, scheduling, and preparation, ensuring you are well-equipped for this pivotal certification.

What is the FSA Credential?

The FSA Credential, awarded by the IFRS Foundation, is tailored for professionals who need a deep understanding of how financially material sustainability information impacts a company’s capacity for long-term value creation. This certification is vital for those involved in sustainability reporting, corporate finance, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors.

Key Benefits:

• Enhanced Expertise: Gain a nuanced understanding of sustainability metrics and their role in financial performance.
• Career Advancement: Equip yourself with skills that are increasingly demanded by organizations focused on sustainability.
• Global Recognition: Achieve a credential recognized internationally for its rigorous standards and relevance.

For a detailed overview, visit the FSA website or download the candidate handbook.

Registration Fees and Refund Policy

FSA Level I Registration Fees:

• IFRS Sustainability Alliance Members: $400 USD
• Non-members: $450 USD

FSA Level II Registration Fees:

• IFRS Sustainability Alliance Members: $500 USD
• Non-members: $650 USD

Note: Prices are listed in USD and are subject to local taxes. Reduced pricing is available for candidates from low- and middle-income economies. The location-based discount is automatically applied during registration. For detailed pricing by country, visit the FSA pricing page.

Refund Policy:

• Within 14 Days of Payment: Refunds are available through Pearson VUE. Contact Pearson VUE directly for processing.
• After 14 Days: Rescheduling is permitted, but refunds are no longer available. A $60 USD fee applies for rescheduling within 48 hours of the exam.

Scheduling Your Exam

The FSA exams are conducted in three two-month testing blocks annually:

• January-February
• May-June
• September-October

You can choose to take the exam online or in-person during these periods. Both Level I and Level II exams are two hours long. For detailed scheduling information and to find out when registration opens for each block, please visit the FSA website.

Rescheduling Fees:

• A $60 USD fee applies if rescheduling within 48 hours of your exam.

Preparing for the Exam

The FSA Credential is a self-study program. Upon scheduling your exam, you will receive an email with a link to download the study guide, which includes all necessary materials for exam preparation. For additional study resources and guidance, refer to the FSA study materials.

Special Accommodations

If you require special testing accommodations, submit your request to FSA_Credential@ifrs.org at least 30 days before your exam date. Upon approval, you will be directed to coordinate with the accommodations scheduling team to set up your exam.

Exam Retake Policy

Candidates may attempt each level of the FSA exam up to three times. Each additional attempt beyond the initial registration requires a new registration fee.