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What is the Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSATM) designation?

The Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSATM) designation is a leading credential for financial advice in Canada. It is approved by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) for using the Financial Advisor title in the province of Ontario. Used by Canada’s largest financial institutions, it ensures that financial advisors have the knowledge and skills to provide appropriate advice to address a client’s financial situation. 

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What are the requirements to earn the Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSATM) designation?

The requirements to earn the Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSATM) designation are defined by the DFSA Competency Profile. This profile is aligned with industry best practices and provides the knowledge and skills applied by advisors. It also drives the pre-requisite requirements, education and ongoing maintenance requirements.

To be eligible to earn the DFSA designation, candidates must complete Investment Funds in Canada (IFC) and agree to:

  • Complete one of the educational paths;
  • Complete application form and attestation;
  • Abide by the Code of Ethics, the Ethical Misconduct Process and the Trademark License Agreement; and
  • Commit to ongoing continuing education once the designation education path has been completed.

Note: Completion of the Canadian Securities Course (CSC®) grants an exemption to the IFC.

If you have any questions regarding eligibility, please contact your employer directly.

What is the path to the Designated Financial Services Advisor (DFSATM) designation?

CSI offers three educational paths to achieve the DFSATM designation. The DFSATM requires applicants to complete an approved education path within 2 years of being granted the designation. If you do not successfully complete the post-licensing courses, you will lose the right to use the designation and the right to use the title Financial Advisor in the province of Ontario.

Course Pathway for Banking and Credit Union Employees1

1 This is an MFDA pathway.

Course Pathway for Investment Advisors2

Mobile_DFSA – Pathway for Investment Advisors

Mobile_DFSA – Pathway for Investment Advisors
WME

2 This is an IIROC pathway.

Course Pathway for Independent Mutual Fund Advisors3

3 This is an MFDA pathway.