In the fast-paced world of facility management, obtaining proper credentials is a key step toward career advancement. With the rise of unauthorized providers claiming to offer official IFMA training, and/or use IFMA’s copyrighted materials, protected under the Berne International treaty, it’s crucial to understand the key differences in credential requirements and how to spot fake providers.
One of the significant differences between the Facility Management Professional® (FMP®), Sustainability Facility Professional® (SFP®) and Certified Facility Manager® (CFM®) credential is that the CFM credential does not require training. You demonstrate mastery by completing a comprehensive assessment, and your eligibility is based off specific requirements.
This is not true for the FMP and SFP credentials. The FMP and SFP are training programs. They require the successful completion of specific courses or training based on learning objectives. These courses are only offered through an IFMA-approved Education Training Affiliate (ETA).
Third-party training affiliates AND students who are not obtaining their training and materials directly through an IFMA ETA or directly through IFMA’s FM.Training are violating IFMA’s copyright protected under the Berne International treaty.
When selecting a training provider, it’s important to remain vigilant for signs of potential fraud. Here are three red flags to look out for:
If a provider claims to offer IFMA training but is vague about their accreditation or affiliations, that could be a warning sign. Verify the provider’s legitimacy by checking if they’re listed as an IFMA-approved Education Training Affiliate (ETA).
If a training program promises a shortcut, be wary. IFMA certificate programs require study and mastery of various competencies. Only IFMA-approved ETA’s are approved to deliver this type of training.
Only IFMA Qualified Instructors can teach for an IFMA-approved ETA. If the instructor’s qualifications aren’t clearly stated or don’t seem to meet the standards, the program might not be affiliated with IFMA and may be in violation of IFMA’s copyright law protected under the Berne International treaty.
Obtaining official IFMA credentials offers significant advantages. Not only do these credentials validate your knowledge and skills, but they also ensure that you’re recognized by employers worldwide as a qualified professional.
To protect your career and IFMA credentials, always verify your training provider through official channels. Here’s how:
Don't risk your career with unauthorized training. Visit ifma.org today to find an approved training provider near you. If you have any questions or concerns, contact IFMA to help make sure that you’re on the right path to earning credible, valuable credentials. Explore our global network of IFMA Education Training Affiliates today.
Disclaimer: The IFMA Certified Facility Manager® (CFM®), IFMA Facility Management Professional® (FMP®) and the IFMA Sustainability Facility Professional® (SFP®) are globally recognized credentials offered exclusively by International Facility Management Association (IFMA). To ensure the highest standards of education and credibility, the IFMA FMP and IFMA SFP training is only available through IFMA or an IFMA-approved training provider. Engaging with unapproved providers may result in invalid training, extra costs and could jeopardize your eligibility. There is no required coursework for the IFMA CFM. Exam preparation materials are optional and not endorsed by the IFMA Certification Commission. However, the application, testing and issuance of the IFMA CFM remain exclusive to IFMA. The FMP, SFP, and CFM can only be legally obtained through IFMA, and all holders are listed in our International Credential Registry. A list of authorized providers can be found at IFMA.org. You may also contact IFMA directly for additional information or to confirm verification.