Skip to content
Independent certification guide · exam data reviewed November 2026 Study guidesBrowse by fieldHow we review
Find a certification

FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking Professionals

FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking Professionals vs 3 alternatives compared

Exam fee, level, duration, validity and salary side by side. Blank cells mean we do not have verified data yet.

FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking ProfessionalsCFP – Certified Financial PlannerCFA Level I – Investment AnalysisCISI – Wealth & Investment Management
VendorGARPCFP BoardCFA InstituteCISI
LevelAdvancedAdvancedBeginnerIntermediate
Exam fee$875–$1,175$825–$925$940–$1,250£190–£350
Duration——Two 135‑minute sessions—
Passing score————
Valid for————
Typical salary$110K–$160K$75K–$130K$80K–$120K£45K–£80K
PrerequisitesAt least two years of relevant work experience———

Which should you choose?

Should I take FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking Professionals or CFP – Certified Financial Planner first?

Both are rated Advanced. Pick the one whose exam domains match the job you want, and check which one employers in your area ask for.

Should I take FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking Professionals or CFA Level I – Investment Analysis first?

CFA Level I – Investment Analysis is the lower-level certification (Beginner vs Advanced), so it is usually the better first step.

Should I take FRM – Financial Risk Manager for Banking Professionals or CISI – Wealth & Investment Management first?

CISI – Wealth & Investment Management is the lower-level certification (Intermediate vs Advanced), so it is usually the better first step.