CFE Exam FAQs

The CFE Exam is a comprehensive examination that demonstrates expertise in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence and investigation. Passing the CFE Exam is a requirement for earning the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) credential. 

• Exam Structure: The CFE Exam consists of four sections: Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes, Law, Investigation and Fraud Prevention and Deterrence. Each section focuses on different aspects of fraud examination. 
• Format and Duration: Each section is a separate two-hour, closed-book/closed-notes examination consisting of 100 questions.
• Question Types: The CFE Exam contains multiple-choice and True/False questions that test practical knowledge, critical thinking and understanding of concepts related to the fraud examination body of knowledge.

Every five to seven years, the ACFE conducts a comprehensive study, called a job analysis, to determine the knowledge, skills and abilities required to be a CFE. The results of this study are used to create the CFE Exam Content Outline, also referred to as an exam blueprint. The questions on the CFE Exam are developed based on this detailed framework, with specific content derived from the fraud examination body of knowledge found in the ACFE’s Fraud Examiners Manual. The CFE Exam Content Outline serves as a guide for exam candidates throughout their preparation and ensures the validity and reliability of the exam.  

Preparing for the CFE Exam involves a combination of studying the fraud examination body of knowledge and finding the right study approach based on your personal learning style. Recommended steps include: 

• Developing a Study Plan: Set a target deadline for taking the exam, and then organize your study time based on your strengths and weaknesses; set aside dedicated time to study every day.
• Reviewing the CFE Exam Content Outline: This resource provides an overview of the topics and skills assessed on the exam, which will help you focus your studies on the most important areas. 
• Exploring the ACFE’s CFE Exam Preparation Tools: The ACFE offers a variety of options to match personal preferences for instructor support, scheduling, budget and location. Make the most of your study time by choosing a preparation method that fits your circumstances and personal learning style. 
• Joining a Study Group or Seeking Guidance from ACFE Members: Get support and valuable insights from fellow ACFE members by participating in the ACFE’s exclusive online community, 90-Day CFE Exam Challenge or Mentoring Program.
• Supplementing with Additional Study Resources: Consider using textbooks, professional articles and case studies related to fraud examination to gain a deeper understanding of key concepts and reinforce your knowledge.

No. The CFE Exam is currently only available in English. However, to assist with exam preparation, translated key terms in the following languages are included with the Fraud Examiners Manual and CFE Exam Prep Course:

• Arabic 
• Chinese 
• French 
• German 
• Italian 
• Portuguese 
• Spanish

Yes. An approved CFE Exam Application is required to take the CFE Exam. Read more about CFE credential program eligibility and qualifications in the CFE Credential Exam Candidate Handbook or CFE Credential FAQs.  

The CFE Exam Application fee is $475 and covers your first attempt at each exam. Exam retakes are $110 per failed section. Additional fees may apply for rescheduling exams. Refer to the “Exam Eligibility and Scheduling Information” section of this FAQ page for more information. 

The CFE Exam is continuously delivered and live-proctored by Prometric or the ACFE. You may choose to take the exam in the following ways:

• Remote Proctoring: Take your exam online from a private location of your choice using Prometric’s ProProctor platform. 
• In Person: Visit a Prometric Testing Center, available in locations worldwide, for an in-person exam experience. 

Alternatively, if you attend an in-person CFE Exam Review Course, you may take a paper-based exam onsite. Please note that virtual and authorised training courses do not offer this option.

Remote proctoring is a method of monitoring candidates during an online exam to ensure the integrity and security of the testing process. This approach allows you to take your exam conveniently from a private location of your choice while being supervised by a proctor through a live video feed.

Specific system requirements include:

• Screen resolution: 
  
  • Recommended: 1920 x 1080
  • Minimum: 1024 x 768
• Supported operating systems*:
  • Windows: 8.1 or above 
  • MacOS: 12.0 or higher (except Ventura 13.0–13.2.1)
• Web browser: Latest version of Google Chrome
• Webcam: Capable of a 360-degree environmental check; external camera required if using a desktop
• Microphone/speakers: Enabled/unmuted
• Internet connection: 
  
  • Download speed: 5.0 Mbps or greater
  • Upload speed: 0.5 Mbps or greater

*The following are not supported or compatible with ProProctor:

• MacOS Ventura 13.0–13.2.1
• All versions below MacOS Monterey 12.0
• ChromeOS
• Linux-based distributions
• Virtual machines

To ensure a successful remote testing experience, your testing environment must meet the following requirements:

• Indoors: The space must be a well-lit, indoor area with walls, free from background noise and disruptions. 
• Clean and Organized: Your room or workspace should be tidy and orderly. 
• Minimal Distractions: Set up your testing space to eliminate distractions and ensure privacy. This might involve covering windows and non-frosted glass doors. 
• No Third Parties: No one else may be present in the room or enter during your exam appointment (including pets). 
• Single Monitor: Only one monitor is allowed; dual monitors are not permitted. 
• Proper Furniture: A table/desk and chair are required for your testing setup.

Yes. You can use your employer-issued device/work computer to take the CFE Exam. However, candidates generally have a smoother experience when using personal computers. This is because work computers often have firewalls, VPNs and other security settings that might conflict with the ProProctor platform, leading to potential technical issues. 
 
If you decide to take the exam on your employer-issued device, please ensure you review the General Instructions for Corporate Computers before scheduling your exam. We recommend reaching out to your company’s IT support team for assistance in reviewing the requirements and setting up your device. If you plan to take the exam from a corporate or work office, involving your IT team well in advance is crucial to address any potential firewall or VPN issues before test day. This will help you minimize the risk of complications during your exam.

No. Connecting to a VPN during your remotely proctored exam is not allowed. Using a VPN can significantly impact the performance of the exam delivery software and might even prevent ProProctor from launching. To ensure a smooth testing experience, you must disable any VPNs, firewalls and anti-virus software before starting your exam. 

Yes. You can conduct a limited system check before scheduling your exam. However, while this check helps verify that your system meets the technical requirements, it might not detect potential issues related to firewalls or security settings. 
 
Once you schedule your first exam appointment, you will have the opportunity to perform a more thorough system readiness check and take a demo exam. Even if your device passes all screenings, unexpected technical issues might still occur during your exam. Our dedicated Exam Team is here to support you promptly if any problems arise.

Remote proctoring allows you to take the CFE Exam from the comfort of your own home or office, eliminating the need to travel or test alongside other candidates. However, remote proctoring might not be suitable for everyone. Consider a testing center if: 

• You do not have access to a computer with a camera and microphone or your computer does not meet the necessary technical requirements, such as screen resolution and operating system compatibility. 
• Your computer has technical issues, or its security settings are not compatible with the remote proctoring application. 
• You lack a private testing space or cannot guarantee that you will not be interrupted during the exam. 
• Your testing environment does not meet the required criteria, such as being indoors, well-lit and free from distractions. 

By evaluating your specific situation against these criteria, you can choose the testing option that best fits your needs and ensures a smooth exam experience.

To find the nearest Prometric Testing Center, visit the Prometric CFE Exam Portal. Click on the “Locate” link under “Test Center Exam” and follow the instructions to view available locations in your area.

Yes. A physical copy of your valid/unexpired government-issued photo identification is required for both remote and in-person testing. If your identification does not have an expiration date, confirm that it is still considered valid in your issuing country or state/province. Please note that digital copies or photocopies are not accepted.
 
If you do not have an acceptable form of identification, please email Exam@ACFE.com to discuss alternative options.

The ACFE strives to provide an equal testing opportunity for all CFE candidates and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as any country-specific equivalent, to provide reasonable accommodations to candidates with documented disabilities or special needs. Accommodations require advance review and coordination with Prometric and can take up to 30 days to arrange.

For a complete list of permissible items that do not require preapproval from the ACFE or Prometric, please click here.

To apply for an exam accommodation, please contact ExamAccommodations@ACFE.com before scheduling your exam appointment and at least 30–60 days prior to your desired testing date.

Upon approval of your CFE Exam Application, you will receive instructions for activating your exam eligibility. Read more about the CFE Exam Application process in the CFE Credential Exam Candidate Handbook or CFE Credential FAQs.

Exam eligibility is your authorization to take the CFE Exam. It outlines which sections you are approved to access and specifies the time frame in which you are authorized to schedule and complete your exams. CFE Exam eligibility windows are open for 60 days.

Your Eligibility ID is the unique number you will use to schedule your CFE Exam appointments. This ID signals to Prometric which exam sections you are authorized to take and within what time frame. Your Eligibility ID is the same as your ACFE member number. Active exam eligibility is required to schedule any exams.

Before activating your exam eligibility, please ensure that:

• You are prepared to complete all exam sections within the next 60 days.
• The first and last name/surname registered on your ACFE account match your government-issued photo identification. For name changes, contact Exam@ACFE.com.
• You are familiar with all CFE Exam testing requirements and available testing options.

If you need to retake any sections of the CFE Exam, the ACFE will provide you with a new 60-day eligibility window.

Your exam eligibility can only be self-activated once. To activate it, please follow these steps: 

1. Log into the Certification Portal and select “Edit” to view your approved CFE Exam Application. 
2. Make note of your “Eligibility ID” (your ACFE member number) and the first four characters of your last name.
3. Click the “Activate Eligibility” button. This will start your 60-day eligibility window and redirect you to the Prometric CFE Exam Portal for scheduling.

Important Notes: 

• Clicking “Activate Eligibility” multiple times might result in an error message. After your eligibility is successfully activated, exam details will appear under “Learn more” in Step 4 of the Certification Portal.
• For assistance with activation issues, please contact the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com or call +1 (512) 478-9000 or (800) 245-3321.

Before scheduling each exam appointment, please have the following details available:

• Your Eligibility ID
• Your first and last name/surname
• Your phone number, including country/area code
• Your mailing address
• Your email address

Once your exam eligibility is activated, you can schedule your exams through the Prometric CFE Exam Portal. To secure the date and time that best fits your needs, we recommend scheduling up to 30 days in advance, especially for weekend appointments, as they tend to fill up quickly. However, if your schedule is flexible and there is availability, you can schedule up to 24 hours ahead of time. For detailed guidance, refer to the “Activating Eligibility and Scheduling Your Exam Appointments” section of the CFE Credential Exam Candidate Handbook.

To schedule your exams:

1. Choose Your Preferred Testing Option: Select either remote proctoring or in-person testing and follow the corresponding link below or navigate to the appropriate section in the portal. 
   • Remote Scheduler
   • In-Person Scheduler
2. Input Required Information: Enter your Prometric Eligibility ID and the first four characters of your last name/surname when prompted.
3. Complete the Scheduling Process: Follow the prompts to choose your date and time. Before finalizing, confirm that you have selected the correct time (a.m. or p.m.).
4. Save Your Confirmation Number: Once your appointment is finalized, a 16-digit appointment confirmation number will be displayed on the screen and will be emailed to you. Keep this confirmation number; you will need it to manage your appointment and access your exam.
5. Check Your Computer System: If you are taking your exam remotely, perform the enhanced system check and demo exam through ProProctor prior to your exam day. This step helps avoid delays, missed appointments and any rescheduling fees due to unexpected technical issues. 
6. Schedule Additional Exam Sections: To schedule any remaining sections of your exam, repeat steps 1–5. Each section must be scheduled individually, so make sure to allow enough time within your 60-day eligibility window to secure your preferred dates.

An appointment confirmation number is a unique 16-digit code provided each time you schedule an exam appointment. Prometric will email this number to you once your appointment is finalized, along with your appointment details.  
 
It is important to thoroughly review the confirmation email and details upon receipt to ensure your appointments were scheduled correctly, as incorrectly scheduled appointments might incur rescheduling fees.  
 
Keep this confirmation number to manage, reschedule and access your exam. Each scheduled exam section will have its own confirmation number. 

If you lost your appointment confirmation number or did not receive your confirmation email, you can request a resend by contacting the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com or calling +1 (512) 478-9000 or (800) 245-3321.

We understand that professional or personal obligations might arise and take priority. To ensure you do not incur additional fees, please be aware of the following appointment cancellation and reschedule policy timelines:

• 30+ days before your scheduled appointment: There is no charge for changing or canceling an exam appointment.
• 3–29 days before your scheduled appointment: Changes made between 3 and 29 days are subject to a $35 fee, paid directly to Prometric at the time of the appointment change.
• Less than three days before your scheduled appointment: You may not reschedule an exam less than three days prior to your appointment. If you fail to show up for an exam or cancel within three days of a scheduled appointment, you will be subject to a $50 rescheduling fee, paid directly to the ACFE.

In the event of an emergency, please contact the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com or call +1 (512) 478-9000 or (800) 245-3321 as soon as possible to discuss options for canceling or rescheduling your appointments. We are here to help you navigate any challenges you might face.

If you need to cancel or reschedule an existing exam appointment three or more days before your scheduled date, please follow these steps:

1. Visit the Prometric CFE Exam Portal.
2. Click the “Reschedule” or “Cancel” link corresponding to your chosen testing option (either “Remote Exam” or “Test Center Exam”) and follow the prompts.
3. You will receive an email confirming your new appointment time or notifying you of the cancellation.

 

If there are fewer than three days left before your scheduled appointment, please cancel your exam following the above steps and reach out to the ACFE Exam Team for further guidance.

If you need to change your testing modality, please contact Prometric or the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com directly for assistance.

We recognize that unexpected situations might arise. If you are unable to schedule and take your exams within your assigned eligibility window, your exam eligibility will expire. You may request a one-time courtesy reset by contacting the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com or calling +1 (512) 478-9000 or (800) 245-3321. Please note that repeated failure to complete exams within your assigned time frame might result in rescheduling fees.

To prepare for your exam appointments, please read the “What to Expect During the CFE Exam” section of the CFE Credential Exam Candidate Handbook.

For Remotely Proctored Exam Appointments: Please note the following in anticipation of your exam appointments:

• Notes and electronic devices are not permitted.
• Prometric will conduct a complete scan of your testing room, desk area, chair, floor, arms, hands and pockets. You might be asked to remove jewelry or clear any clutter in your testing area.
• It is helpful to clear your testing area ahead of time by removing all papers, books and other materials. We recommend having a blanket or sheet available so you can cover any areas that are problematic.
• Ensure you have a flat surface to test on, a proper chair and a private room with four walls and a door. Note that environmental checks cannot be conducted if your area has glass walls or uncovered windows.
• If your environment needs adjustments or your internet connection is weak, you might be asked to exit the application and start over.

If you are uncomfortable with these requirements or cannot meet them, consider scheduling at an in-person testing center instead.

Scheduled breaks are not permitted during the CFE Exam. If an emergency arises and you need to leave your workstation, you may take one five-minute unscheduled break. Please remember to obtain permission from your proctor before exiting the exam area, and note that you will undergo security screening when you return.

Your exam timer will continue running during both the unscheduled break and the security check. If you do not return within the five-minute time frame, your exam will be terminated.

During your exam, the proctor will monitor your exam session for signs of security violations or unauthorized materials. You are prohibited from using notes, study tools or outside assistance of any kind, as well as from recording or capturing exam content. Leaving the testing area is not allowed unless you have received prior approval from your proctor or have been granted a testing accommodation by the ACFE.

If the proctor detects or suspects any violation, you might not be permitted to continue testing, your exam session might be terminated and you could face disciplinary action by the ACFE.

If your exam appointment is terminated by Prometric staff after your exam has launched, please reach out to us promptly. Email ExamSecurity@ACFE.com with details about the incident and what occurred.

If you encounter technical issues when launching your exam, please reach out to Prometric’s support team via their online chat service. Access the Prometric Knowledge Base and click the chat icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Chat support is also available within the ProProctor software at the top of the screen, where you will go through the automated portion of the screening process before being connected to a live agent. 

All remote proctoring appointments include onboarding support from a live agent who will conduct your security and environmental checks and can offer additional guidance. 

If you are unable to complete your exam due to technical issues, you might need to reschedule your appointment. Please contact the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com or call +1 (512) 478-9000 or (800) 245-3321 to provide details about what happened and receive assistance with rescheduling. If your computer issues persist, consider scheduling your remaining exam sections at a testing center.

If you are unable to finish your exam due to an unexpected technical issue, internet outage or power failure, you will have approximately 30 minutes to rejoin your exam by restarting the ProProctor application and completing the security check-in again. If you are unable to reconnect within this time frame, please contact the ACFE Exam Team at Exam@ACFE.com.  

Provide as much detail as possible about the situation so we can assist you effectively.

For non-urgent inquiries, please fill out a request using Prometric’s Contact Form on their website and a representative will reach out to you.

For questions related to scheduling and appointments, you can call Prometric directly at +1 (888) 244-3729 or visit the Prometric CFE Exam Portal for regional contact numbers.

If you have concerns or feel that you were treated inappropriately during the onboarding process or at any time during your exam, please email ExamSecurity@ACFE.com. The ACFE is dedicated to ensuring that all CFE candidates are treated fairly and professionally, and we take your feedback seriously.

After successfully completing each exam, a preliminary Score Report Assessment will automatically be emailed to you within 24 hours (usually within an hour). Results can also be accessed in the Prometric Score Report Portal using your appointment confirmation number and last name for up to five years from your exam date.  

A Score Report Assessment is a detailed document provided to you after you complete an exam administered by Prometric. It provides a benchmark of proficiency levels in each exam domain, or content area, and is intended to help identify areas where you need further study to enhance your knowledge and skills. The report includes:

• Overall Score: Your total score for the exam.
• Passing Status: Information about whether you have passed or failed the exam.
• Performance Feedback: Insights into strengths and weaknesses, helping you understand where you excelled and where improvement is needed.

To pass the CFE Exam, you must accurately answer at least 75% of the questions in each section correctly.

No. To maintain the integrity of the exam, the ACFE is unable to provide details regarding which responses were correct or incorrect.

Candidates have up to five attempts to pass each section of the CFE Exam. If you do not pass an exam section within five attempts, your eligibility for the program and all previous exam results will expire. At that point, you must wait two years from the date of your last exam attempt before you can reapply for the program and start the exam process over again.

CFE Exam retake fees are $110 per failed section. You will be invoiced for any failed sections within 1–3 days of your exam appointment. Payment is required before retake eligibility will be issued. 
 
CFE Exam Review Course attendees: Please note that any applicable benefits or conditions related to your exam retake will be applied automatically based on your registration status.

You can retake your exam for the first three attempts without any waiting period. However, for your fourth and fifth attempts, a waiting period of 30 days is required. Upon payment of your retake fees, an updated 60-day exam eligibility will be issued via email within 3–5 business days.

If you complete and pass all required exams: Exam scores are valid for five years from the date you pass your final exam section. If you do not complete the certification process within this five-year period, your scores will expire, and you will need to reapply for and retake the CFE Exam. 
 
If you pass at least one section but not all required sections: If you do not pass all required sections of the CFE Exam within your initial two-year application window or during the optional one-year extension period, your application and exam results will expire. You will need to reapply for the exam, repay the application fee and resubmit any required supporting documentation.