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The Certified College Planning Specialist (CCPS) designation is a financial certification from the National Institute of Certified College Planners (NICCP). The certification is restricted to registered investment advisors, licensed securities agents, CPAs, attorneys, and other higher education professionals that assist families in preparing for the financial cost of college. The National Institute of Certified College Planners (NICCP) is dedicated solely to the administration and maintenance of the Certified College Planning Specialist (CCPS) certification program and maintains a listing of all current and active CCPS designees. A CCPS certificant candidate must complete an Application for Certification, pass comprehensive examinations, agree to abide by the NICCP and CCPS's Code of Ethics, and meet continuing education requirements.

“Section 529 Plan Specialist”, “Certified College Advisor”, “College Planning Specialist”, “Scholarship or Financial Aid Expert”, “Professional FAFSA Preparer” are not professional designations or certifications.


 * Why it may appear to be advertising. The Certified Financial Planner (CFP) has the same concern on its site. The financial industry is very much a self monitoring / self regulating industry. Many of the designations are awarded by proprietary institutes, boards, or organizations, eg. CPA, CLU, CFA, CFS, ChFC, AAMS, RIA and many others. This contrasts with proprietary, in-house, or unregulated designations, that can give the illusion of expertise until further examination of the requirements. There has been a recent and widespread investigation into the use of senior designations that may have been used to mislead investors.