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APR CURRICULUM

The Accredited Pension Representative (APR) designation is earned by the successful completion of two study courses and examinations covering the fundamentals of retirement plans with an emphasis on defined contribution plans and investment philosophy. The APR also requires an NASD Series 6, 7, 65, 66, 24, or an insurance license, and is maintained by annually completing 10 hours of continuing education and current NIPA membership. Potential APRs include retirement plan personnel, financial consultants / planners, and Registered Investment Advisors

APR Designation Timetable
The APR designation must be earned within three years from the successful completion of your first exam. Exams passed more than three years prior to the successful completion of your last exam must be re-taken.

Study Material and Examinations
National examinations are given on the second Saturday of June and the first Saturday of December. The courses and examinations may be taken in any order, although it is recommended they be taken in sequence. To properly prepare for each of the APR courses, students will need a current-year study guide and the text materials cited in the study guide.

Each exam consists of approximately 100 multiple choice questions relating to material covered in the appropriate text and study guide. A student earning a grade of 70% or more is assured of passing.

Because of the constantly changing laws and rules, study guides and most text materials are updated annually. Candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare for the national examination with current study materials. Using out-dated study materials will not adequately prepare candidates. Study materials may not be reproduced.

Course 1: Overview of the Retirement Field
Course 2: Advanced Topics in Retirement Plans