Is Becoming a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) Worth It?

If you’re in the fundraising profession, you’ve likely heard of the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential. But is it worth your time, effort, and investment?

The short answer: Yes, but with a caveat.

Being a successful fundraiser isn’t just about having fancy credentials after your name. It requires grit, tenacity, and the ability to secure real financial results, not just warm applause from well-attended galas or LinkedIn endorsements (which, by the way, don’t pay the bills).

At the end of the day, fundraising is about securing dollars, not collecting “likes.”

That said, CFRE certification serves as a powerful credibility booster—one that can give you a competitive edge in an industry where trust, expertise, and results matter.

Why Get Your CFRE?

While experience in the trenches will always be the best teacher, CFRE certification offers real, tangible benefits:

Increases Credibility

Earning a CFRE demonstrates that your expertise meets global standards in philanthropy and fundraising best practices. It reassures donors, employers, and board members that you know what you’re doing and aren’t just winging it.

Enhances Professionalism

The CFRE credential isn’t handed out to just anyone. It’s a rigorous certification process that separates seasoned professionals from those still figuring things out. If you want to be taken seriously, having “CFRE” next to your name is a game-changer.

Boosts Career Opportunities

Hiring managers and executive directors love seeing CFRE certification on a resume. Why? Because it tells them you’re committed to professional development, ethical fundraising, and industry best practices.

When it comes down to you vs. another candidate, having your CFRE can tip the scales in your favor.

Increases Earning Potential

Let’s talk numbers. A survey conducted by the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP) found that CFRE-certified fundraisers earn, on average, 23% more than their non-certified peers.

That’s a huge difference. If you’re looking for a way to justify the time and money spent on certification, look no further than your paycheck.

Prepares You for Bigger Responsibilities

Fundraising isn’t just about writing grant proposals or planning events—it’s about strategy, donor psychology, major gifts, and planned giving. The CFRE curriculum sharpens your skills in these areas, helping you prepare for higher-level roles in the field.

Builds Self-Confidence

There’s something incredibly satisfying about achieving a well-respected credential that proves you’ve mastered your craft. CFRE certification gives you the confidence to negotiate, lead, and advocate for your organization more effectively.

How to Get Started

If you’re ready to take the next step in your fundraising career, we recommend a two-pronged approach:

1. CFRE Preparation

• Visit the CFRE official website to review eligibility requirements and start the application process.
• Download the CFRE Exam Study Guide and create a study plan.

2. Fundraising Training That Works

• Enroll in the Planned Giving Boot Camp for hands-on training in major gifts and planned giving—two areas that will set you apart from other fundraisers.
• Check out our Major Gifts Boot Camp to sharpen your skills in securing transformational gifts for your organization.

These courses aren’t just about theory—they’re designed to equip you with real-world fundraising strategies that get results.

Final Thought: Is CFRE Certification for Everyone?

Not necessarily. If you’re just starting out or prefer to focus on hands-on learning rather than credentials, then investing in practical fundraising training (like our boot camps) might be a smarter move.

However, if you’re serious about career advancement, earning potential, and credibility, then CFRE certification is absolutely worth considering.

Either way, the best investment you can make is in your own knowledge and skill set—whether that’s through certification, training, or both.

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Explore PlannedGiving.com for more resources, training, and expert guidance to help you stand out as a top fundraiser.