Certifications

Become a Qualified Assessor

The Coalition for Financial Ecosystem Standards (CFES) is accepting applications from qualified firms to become CFES-Qualified Assessor Firms. These firms are approved to conduct certifications of fintechs and nonbanks using CFES’s STARC Framework and Core Risk and Compliance Standards. CFES-Qualified Assessors promote transparency, consistency, and accountability across the financial ecosystem. In order to maintain a level of quality and consistency in reports, the CFES-Qualified Assessor Program is selective and requires documented expertise, ethical standards, and training compliance.
  • Minimum Requirements to Apply

To be considered for CFES qualification, your firm must meet the following baseline criteria:

  • Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience in financial services auditing, compliance, or risk management.
  • Fintech & Partnership Knowledge: Familiarity with nonbank fintech firms and experience evaluating partnerships with traditional banks.
  • Technology Fluency: Understanding of emerging technologies such as AI/ML, embedded finance, and digital lending platforms.
  • Staff Qualifications & Ethics:
    • Must comply with the CFES Code of Ethics
    • Key staff must complete required CFES training and continuing education
  • Application Process

Qualified firms must complete the following steps to be granted CFES-Qualified Assessor status. Only firms that complete all steps will be formally recognized as CFES-Qualified Assessor Firms.

Submit Initial Application
See the application form below.
Provide Supporting Documentation
Resumes, insurance, disclosures, and related materials.
Pass Background Review & Screening
Eligibility checks and verification.
Participate in a Capability Interview
Discuss expertise and scope of assessments.
Complete CFES Training Requirements
Core training modules and any add-ons.
Execute the CFES Assessor Agreement
Finalize terms and get started.
  • Application &
    Program Fees

Becoming a CFES-Qualified Assessor involves two fees. 

Please note: The application fee covers the cost of evaluating applications and assessing them against designated criteria. The application fee is non-refundable.

Application Fee: $1,000
Due upon submission of application.
Qualified Assessor Fee: $8,500
If your firm passes all qualification steps, a final program fee will be invoiced as part of CFES-Qualified Assessor status issuance. The fee covers training, reviews, and other program requirements. CFES-Qualified Assessor status is valid for one year and subject to annual renewal requirements and fees.
  • Before You Begin

To streamline your application, please prepare the following materials in advance (as you will need to complete the application in one session):

  • Organizational profile and key contacts
  • Proof of professional liability insurance
  • Team bios or resumes with credentials
  • Disclosures of any regulatory actions or conflicts of interest
  • Sample reports or excerpts (e.g., BSA/AML audit, CMS audit) demonstrating capabilities


Additionally, be ready to provide detailed responses to the following questions:

  • Describe your experience in financial services auditing, compliance, or risk management.
  • Describe your experience assessing fintech companies or nonbank-bank partnerships.
  • Summarize your experience with relevant technologies (e.g., AI/ML in underwriting, alternative credit models, blockchain/crypto applications, embedded lending or APIs, open banking).
  • Questions?

For questions about the CFES Assessor Program or application process, please contact us at assessorprogram@thecfes.com

Start Your Application