CFOA Direct is the newly launched self-service iteration of the Certified Futures & Options Analyst credential. Offered by TrendUp and administered by the International Council for Derivative Trading (ICFDT), it mirrors the official CFOA exam structure while offering lower friction, no application or prerequisites, immediate access to materials, and flexible pacing.
The Certified Futures & Options Analyst (CFOA) is globally recognized as the only credential focused purely on the derivatives workspace (covering futures and options) and is respected by both professionals and serious individual investors.
It's ideally suited for:
TrendUp's CFOA Direct prepares you to master:
Participants emerge with both technical know-how and a tested certification in the derivatives space.
Once you pass the exam, your status as a CFOA is recorded and can be confirmed via Credsverse, a public credential registry. This adds transparency and credibility, whether you're showcasing your qualification on LinkedIn, social platforms, or to clients and employers.
I completed CFOA before the advent of the Direct option. While invaluable, that traditional route required more structure and time. If CFOA Direct had been around then, I would’ve jumped on it. Its weekend format and budget-friendly setup are a clear win for efficiency-minded professionals.
1. How fast can I get certified?
Complete the full program and exam in a single weekend. Everything is accessible immediately with no registration delay.
2. Are there eligibility requirements?
No formal prerequisites are stated for CFOA Direct. The traditional route might require background or experience, but the Direct path is open to self-starters.
3. What distinguishes CFOA Direct from the L-Program?
CFOA Direct offers a standalone certification path. The L‑Program includes training, networking, and potential recruitment through the SRP (Specialization & Recruitment Program), whereas Direct is more streamlined and cost-efficient.
4. Can employers verify my certification?
Yes. Certification is publicly verifiable through Credsverse, ensuring authenticity. Additionally, some job listings explicitly value CFOA credentials.
5. Is the CFOA exam difficult? Do I need prior knowledge?
Feedback from practitioners suggests that candidates with trading experience in derivatives find the exam quite manageable:
From reddit: "[The] CFOA is not hard if you know what you're doing... it can help prove to employers that you know what you're doing…"
Source: Reddit
6. Who administers the program?
The CFOA certification is administered by the International Council for Derivative Trading (ICFDT), a Chicago-based institution. TrendUp is an ICFDT-authorized provider for prep.
Use code: TRD20POST25 to get 20% off CFOA Direct. A limited-time opportunity brought to you through TradersPost and TrendUp.
Finally, keep me posted on your progress and if you complete the program! I'm interested in knowing how it went for you.
Sources:
The Finance Guide - What is the Certified Futures and Options Analyst (CFOA)?