CFP Board’s 2026 Principal Knowledge Topic Updates — What’s Changed for Candidates

CFP® Board Updates

The CFP Board has released its updated Principal Knowledge Topics for the 2026 exam cycle — and while the changes are subtle, they reflect evolving industry expectations, regulatory realities, and practitioner demands. Whether you’re preparing to sit for the CFP® exam or helping someone on that journey, understanding what’s been updated can sharpen your study strategy.

What Are the Principal Knowledge Topics?

The CFP Board’s Principal Knowledge Topics define the essential knowledge domains that candidates are expected to master. They form the foundation for exam questions and drive the structure of most CFP Board‑registered education programs.

What’s New or Different for 2026?

The 2026 changes are largely refinements rather than overhauls — but they matter:

  • Increased behavioral finance emphasis: The “Psychology of Financial Planning” domain continues to grow in importance. New subtopics include client money scripts, resistance to change, and cognitive biases in financial decision-making.
  • Digital assets explicitly referenced: While cryptocurrency has appeared on the radar in previous years, 2026’s outline clearly names “digital assets” within the investment planning domain, signaling its permanence in client conversations and advisor competency.
  • ESG and sustainability get clearer treatment: Language now reflects the growing relevance of ESG considerations in both investment analysis and client goal setting.
  • Greater specificity around tax planning tactics: Updates in the tax planning section align with the post-TCJA landscape, including sunset-related provisions, standard deduction adjustments, and qualified business income (QBI) planning.
  • Expanded risk management language: There’s more specificity around long-term care, annuities, and insurance planning strategies that integrate with broader goals.

You can access the full 2026 topic list directly on the CFP Board’s website: https://www.cfp.net/-/media/files/cfp-board/certification/cfp-certification/principal-knowledge-topics.pdf

Why These Changes Matter to Candidates and Educators

Even small shifts in topic emphasis can influence exam questions — and ultimately how programs prepare students. For example, expect behavioral concepts to show up not only in their own domain, but also in how they’re integrated into case studies on retirement, debt, or insurance.

Educators should consider adjusting instructional hours or case study materials accordingly.

What to Do Now

  • If you’re preparing for the 2026 exam, confirm whether your course content reflects the latest topic list — and if not, supplement where needed.
  • If you’re a firm or mentor, make sure your CFP® candidates have seen this update and know where to find aligned prep resources.
  • If you’re involved in curriculum design, ensure your programs align with the Board’s latest expectations.
  1. CFP Board. Principal Knowledge Topics – Effective 2026. https://www.cfp.net/-/media/files/cfp-board/certification/cfp-certification/principal-knowledge-topics.pdf
  2. CFP Board. CFP Exam Content Outline Overview. https://www.cfp.net/get-certified/certification-process/exam-requirements/exam-content
  3. Financial Planning. “Behavioral Finance Gains Traction in CFP Curriculum.” https://www.financial-planning.com/news/behavioral-finance-now-essential-in-cfp-exam-coverage
  4. ThinkAdvisor. “What’s Coming in the 2026 CFP Exam Changes.” https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2025/12/01/cfp-exam-updates-2026-principal-topics-overhaul/
Posted in CFP Board Updates

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