Impartiality & Fairness Policy
The Institute of Financial Modeling and Investment (IFMI) is committed to impartiality, fairness, and transparency in all certification activities.
Fair Treatment
Data Protection
Independent Certification
Quick Navigation
Overview
As the certifying body for PFM (Professional Financial Modeler), FRAC (Financial Risk Analyst for Corporates), and PPA (Professional Project Analyst), IFMI ensures that all candidates are treated equally and that certification decisions are made independently—free from bias, commercial influence, or personal interest. These principles are aligned with international standards.
Independence of Certification Decisions
All decisions related to certification—including eligibility, examination, awarding, suspension, and revocation—are made solely by IFMI. These decisions are never delegated to external parties, including training providers or sponsors.
IFMI staff, assessors, and decision-makers are required to operate with neutrality and disclose any potential conflicts of interest. Internal procedures are in place to identify, monitor, and mitigate risks to impartiality.
Separation Between Training and Certification
To preserve objectivity, IFMI does not offer training services. Instead, it authorizes Registered Training Providers (RTPs) to deliver preparatory programs.
RTPs Prohibited From:
- • Claiming guaranteed exam success
- • Privileged access to certification
Independence Ensures:
- • No bearing on eligibility
- • Credibility across industries
Equal Treatment of Candidates
IFMI applies consistent standards and procedures to all applicants, regardless of:
All candidates are evaluated solely on their demonstrated competence and fulfillment of certification requirements. Appeals and complaints are handled transparently, and candidates have the right to challenge decisions through a formal review process.
Confidentiality and Data Protection
Strict Confidentiality Protocols
All personal and professional information submitted by candidates is treated as confidential and disclosed only when legally required or with explicit consent. Data handling procedures are designed to protect privacy and maintain trust throughout the certification lifecycle.
Monitoring and Continuous Improvement
IFMI actively monitors its certification processes to identify and address any threats to impartiality. This includes:
Regular reviews of internal procedures
Staff conduct monitoring
Stakeholder feedback analysis
Reporting Concerns
Any concerns related to fairness, bias, or procedural integrity may be submitted directly. All reports are reviewed with diligence and transparency, and corrective actions are taken when necessary to uphold the integrity of IFMI's certification system.
Contact Information:
For impartiality concerns:
impartial@professionalfinancialmodeler.orgGeneral feedback:
info@professionalfinancialmodeler.orgCommitted to Fair Certification
IFMI welcomes input from candidates, training providers, employers, and other stakeholders to strengthen its impartiality safeguards and improve the quality of its certification programs.