Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

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CFEs analyze transactions and laws to fight fraud and white-collar crime world-wide. CFEs may work as forensic accountants, internal/external auditors, compliance officers, public/private investigators, and in a number of law enforcement roles. CFEs must follow a code of ethics and engage in Continuing Professional Education (CPE) in order to maintain their licenses.

The CFE exam tests knowledge in four areas: (1) Fraud Prevention and Deterrence, (2) Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes, (3) Investigation, and (4) Law.

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE), circa 1988, is the group that represents the profession. Locally, you can get involved in the Georgia Chapter of the ACFE, and in the student chapter ACFE at KSU.  The Georgia Chapter has monthly meetings the first Friday of the month. You can become a student member through the KSU Chapter.

CFE Requirements

  1. Obtain an undergraduate degree.
  2. Have at least 2 years of experience in a fraud-related position.
  3. Pass the CFE exam.
  4. Comply with the code of ethics.
  5. Have a high moral and professional character.

Learn more about:

Pursuing a Forensic Accounting Job with the FBI Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Certification

CFE FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification.

  • Once you pass your CFE exam, your certification eligibility is determined by a combination of education and professional experience through a points system. You are awarded various points for a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, Ph.D., J.D.  In addition, you can earn points for other professional certifications (e.g., CPA) and for each full year of fraud-related experience. See ACFE points system.
  • A CFE has a variety of opportunities to practice, including working with the government in the FBI, CIA or IRS.  Alternatively, CFEs work in accounting firms, law firms, and in corporations as corporate security and risk management advisers.