What modules do I need to have completed to get my APA?
Answer
To obtain the Accredited Product Adviser (APA) designation, you must successfully complete specific modules that align with the financial product categories you wish to be accredited in. The APA designation allows individuals to provide advice in retail financial products under the Central Bank of Ireland’s Minimum Competency Code (MCC).
Required Modules for APA Accreditation:
QFA Regulation – This is a mandatory module for all APA accreditations.
One or more product-specific modules relevant to your chosen area of accreditation, such as:
- Life Assurance
- Pensions
- Savings & Investments
- Personal General Insurance
- Commercial General Insurance
- Private Medical Insurance
- Housing Loans & Home Reversion Agreements
- Consumer Credit & Associated Insurances
Additional Notes
If you wish to provide advice in multiple product areas, you will need to complete the relevant module for each.
Once you achieve APA status in a product category, you must complete annual Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to maintain your designation. If you later decide to pursue the Qualified Financial Adviser (QFA) designation, the modules completed for the APA can count towards it.