Earn your Banking and Finance Essentials (BFE) certificate in 12 months.
Are you looking to change careers and make a successful move into the banking sector? For almost 20 years, CYP has been offering the “Banking & Finance Essentials” (BFE) certificate programme for career changers. In a maximum of 12 months, you’ll receive targeted preparation for your new role in the banking and finance sector – recommended by Swiss Banking (SBA).
Distance learning – learn at your own pace
Distance learning offers you maximum flexibility. You can learn at your own pace, whenever and wherever you like.
The BFE training programme includes 6 basic and 6 advanced modules, as well as 2 exam modules. It also includes all learning materials from BankingToday 2.0.
Price information for the BFE training programme
Distance learning: CHF 4’080
Would you like to book the modules individually? Here our separate pricing information:
Price distance learning: CHF 290 per module
Included in the price for a module:
- Textbooks BankingToday (electronic)
- eLessons (Web Based Trainings)
- Learning videos
- Electronic module test
- Electronic course documentation (exercises, solutions, case studies)
Price examination: CHF 300 BFE Examination
Price Learning Coaching: CHF 200 for 60 minutes meeting time (plus preparation and post-processing time)
BFE Overview: Structure and modules
Here you will find all the modules of the BFE training programme. It consists of 12 modules and 2 exam modules. The modules in the “Basic” and “Advanced” sections form the core of the program.
FAQ Banking & Finance Essentials
Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Admission and Registration
Do I need to already be working at a bank to be admitted to the programme?
No, having a job at a bank is not a requirement for admission. The programme is specifically designed for career changers with a background in another field, regardless of your previous industry.
How do I enrol on this programme?
Sign up here. This will give you access to the CYPnet learning platform.
How does CYPnet work?
Our video tutorial on BFE distance learning and CYPnet will help you.
Programme structure and time commitment
Can I also book individual modules?
Yes, with modular learning, you can put together your own personalised training programme. This is particularly useful, for example, if you already have prior knowledge in certain areas or if you’re particularly interested in specific topics.
☝️Note: To sit the Basic Modules exam or the BFE certificate exam, you must have attended all the modules specified in the Basic and Advanced courses.
Basic Modules Exam
What is the Basic Modules exam?
The Basic Modules exam is an optional, 60-minute online exam designed to test your knowledge of the Basic Modules. If you pass, you will receive a certificate of achievement. The exam also serves as a useful way to assess your current level if you are aiming to take the BFE certificate exam.
When have I passed the Basic Modules exam?
The Basic Modules exam is marked on a scale of 6 to 1. To pass, you need a mark of at least 4.0. You can find the exact marking scheme in the examination regulations. Only half marks are awarded.
Can I retake the exam?
If you fail the exam or do not sit it, you may retake it at the earliest on the next scheduled exam date. The provisions of the examination regulations apply.
BFE Certificate Examination
What are the basic requirements for sitting the BFE certification exam?
You must complete all 12 modules and pass the certificate examination so that we can issue you with the certificate.
What is the BFE certification exam?
The two-hour written exam covers all relevant banking topics. It consists of 40% closed-ended questions (e.g. single-choice or multiple-choice) and 60% open-ended questions. The performance targets form the binding framework, meaning that no questions outside these targets will be asked. Upon successful completion, you will receive the BFE certificate as official proof of your professional competence.
What mark do I need to pass the BFE certificate exam?
A mark of 4 or above is required to pass the exam. You can find the exact grading scale in the examination regulations.
When and where will the exams take place?
The BFE certificate examinations are held in February and August. They take place at the CYP teaching centres in Zurich, Bern and St. Gallen.
How do I register for the BFE certificate exam?
By email to linda.wegmueller@cyp.ch.
