If you're exploring a career in Shariah-compliant financial planning, two qualifications come up again and again: the Islamic Financial Planner™ (IFP®) and Shariah RFP. Both are respected credentials, but they are issued by different bodies, follow different structures, and may suit different career stages.
What is IFP®?
The Islamic Financial Planner™ (IFP®) is a professional certification awarded by IBFIM (Islamic Banking and Finance Institute Malaysia). It is recognised by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), and covers Shariah principles in financial planning, risk management and Takaful, Islamic investment, and Islamic estate planning.
What is Shariah RFP?
Shariah RFP (Registered Financial Planner) is a certification pathway recognised by the Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC). It is delivered through a series of modules covering the Shariah worldview in personal finance, the Shariah financial planning process, and the Malaysian regulatory landscape, culminating in a Capstone module that integrates everything into a complete financial plan.
Key differences
- Awarding body: IFP® is awarded by IBFIM; Shariah RFP is recognised by MFPC.
- Entry routes: IFP® offers a Challenge Status route for experienced professionals and a Full-Fledged 4-Module route for those starting out.
- Structure: Shariah RFP is modular, with a final Capstone module; IFP® Challenge Status is a single focused exam preparation track.
- Many professionals in Malaysia hold both certifications, as they complement each other and are both recognised in the Islamic finance industry.
How Emzek Academy helps you decide
Emzek Academy's flagship Shariah Wealth Planner (SWP) programme is designed as preparatory training for both the IFP® Challenge Status exam and the Shariah RFP Capstone module, so you don't have to choose blindly. Our advisors can review your background and recommend the pathway that fits your experience, schedule and budget - reach out via WhatsApp for a free consultation.
