Advisers 'going in blind' to AF8 exam, professional trainer warns

Feedback not yet enough

Sophie King
clock • 2 min read

Advisers are “going in blind” when taking the Chartered Insurance Institute’s (CII) AF8 exam, a freelance trainer has told PA.

John Trayner, who helps advisers with the AF1-AF7 and R01-R06 qualifications, said the CII should do more to help candidates understand what it is looking for. The exam trainer said he does not help with the AF8 exam because he cannot do it within "the ethical boundaries". Trayner said while the CII has produced an "exemplar paper" which included two papers with a pass mark and one with a fail, candidates still do not have a clear idea of what is expected. He said: "What we need is some sort of discussion with the examiners to see how they look at these [papers]. I think they [the CII...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Budget BADR changes could drive flurry of advice M&A but unlikely to hit valuations

Budget BADR changes could drive flurry of advice M&A but unlikely to hit valuations

Firms urged not to rush sales

Isabel Baxter
clock 09 November 2026 • 4 min read
Verve Foundation launches financial planning career pathfinder

Verve Foundation launches financial planning career pathfinder

Free tool is for all candidates exploring roles and vacancies

Sophia Panayi
clock 09 November 2026 • 1 min read
Women in Financial Advice Awards 2026: Photo highlights from the night

Women in Financial Advice Awards 2026: Photo highlights from the night

Celebrating the best women in advice and financial services

Professional Adviser
clock 06 November 2026 • 1 min read