CNAP Program FAQs
- What type of training is offered in the CNAP program?
- What are the benefits of attaining the CNAP designation?
- Who is eligible to earn the CNAP designation?
- What are the requirements for certification?
- Must I complete the Phase I training session and pass the test before attending the Phase II training session?
- What about the tests at the end of each phase of the training?
- What if I fail the exam?
- Who conducts the training?
- What if I have additional questions?
What type of training is offered in the CNAP program?
Practical, relevant, and timely training is offered in two separate courses taught by experienced and knowledgeable professionals who concentrate their financial and consulting services in the not-for-profit industry. Whether used as a "refresher" course or as means to gain industry-specific knowledge, the specialized hands-on curriculum -- including ideas to improve the profitability of your organization -- will yield immediate benefits. The curriculum also includes basic and intermediate not-for-profit accounting, as well as in-depth training on more advanced issues such as internal controls and budgeting for not-for-profit organizations.
What are the benefits of attaining the CNAP designation?
- Improved skills and knowledge obtained via the specialized training
- Enhanced credibility within the industry as a professional committed to excellence in not-for-profit financial management
- Increased professional knowledge and capability
- National recognition in your industry
- Increased value to your not-for-profit organization
Who is eligible to earn the CNAP designation?
The program is beneficial for bookkeepers, staff accountants, and any professional charged with the financial management of a not-for-profit organization. These individuals are the key personnel in any industry that will gain basic and intermediate accounting and reporting skills by achieving the CNAP designation.
What are the requirements for certification?
- Submit registration application, letter verifying not-for-profit finance experience and fees
- Complete the required training courses (Phase I and II) within 36 months
- Pass the exam at the end of each training course
Must I complete the Phase I training session and pass the test before attending the Phase II training session?
If you are planning on earning the CNAP designation, then, Yes! The curriculum for the Phase II training session is more advanced and builds upon the material covered during the Phase I session.
What about the tests at the end of each phase of the training?
A requirement for certification is that candidates pass a test given at the end of the Phase I and Phase II training sessions. The test is "open book" and is the same for all candidates regardless of where they complete the training. The passing grade for each test is 70%.
What if I fail the exam?
Any candidate who fails an exam will be allowed one opportunity to re-take it at a mutually convenient time and location. If a candidate fails the exam for a second time, he or she must attend the applicable Phase I or Phase II training session again before repeating the exam.
Who conducts the training?
Phases I and II training sessions follow a standardized curriculum and are conducted by NSA member firms. FMA is a member firm authorized to conduct CNAP training.
What if I have additional questions?
Contact Patrick Pruett, NSA Executive Director at 800-231-2524 or email him at patrick@the-apa.com.
