SLP Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY): Everything You Need to Know
What Is the SLP Clinical Fellowship Year?
The Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) is a supervised postgraduate experience required for all Speech-Language Pathologists seeking their Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA (CCC-SLP). It bridges the gap between graduate school and independent practice. During the CFY, you work as a full-time SLP under the mentorship of a licensed CCC-SLP supervisor who observes and evaluates your clinical skills.
CFY Requirements in 2026
ASHA requires CFY candidates to complete a minimum of 36 weeks of full-time equivalent experience (at least 30 hours per week of clinical activity), accumulate at least 1,260 hours of direct clinical contact, receive mentorship from an ASHA-certified supervisor who observes at least 36 hours of your clinical work (with at least 18 hours being direct observation), and pass the Praxis examination in Speech-Language Pathology. Part-time CFY is permitted but proportionally extends the timeline.
How Much Do SLPs Earn During CFY?
CFY SLPs are fully employed and paid, though typically at a lower rate than CCC-SLPs. Average CFY salaries range from $52,000 to $68,000 annually depending on setting and location. School districts often pay CFY SLPs on the same salary schedule as other teachers or specialists, which can be competitive. Hospital and healthcare settings typically offer $55,000 to $65,000 for CFY candidates. After completing the CFY and earning the CCC, most SLPs see immediate salary increases of $8,000 to $15,000.
How to Find a CFY Supervisor
Finding the right CFY supervisor is critical. Most CFY positions come with a designated supervisor as part of the job offer — this is the most common and straightforward path. If you are finding your own supervisor separately, ASHA's ProFind directory lists CCC-SLPs available for supervision. University clinical training programs, ASHA state affiliates, and SLP Facebook groups are also good resources. Telehealth supervision has become more common post-pandemic, expanding options for SLPs in rural areas.
CFY in Different Settings
School-based CFY positions are the most abundant, driven by ongoing SLP shortages in K-12 districts. They offer structured schedules, summer breaks, and built-in supervision through the school system. Hospital and medical settings provide CFY experiences in acute care, rehabilitation, and outpatient, which are more competitive but offer strong clinical foundations. Home health CFY is less common but exists. Early intervention (birth to 3 programs) is another growing setting for CFY completion.
From CFY to CCC-SLP: The Final Steps
After completing your CFY hours, your supervisor submits a final evaluation to ASHA through the CFY Progress Report system. You then apply for ASHA certification (CCC-SLP), pay the certification fee, and maintain certification through ASHA's Continuing Education requirement of 30 CEUs per 3-year certification period. State licensure is separate from ASHA certification — most states require their own license application, fees, and renewal schedule.
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Browse SLP JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an SLP without completing the CFY?+
You can work as an SLP-CF (Clinical Fellow) during your CFY under supervision. You cannot practice independently or hold the CCC-SLP credential until the CFY is complete and ASHA certification is granted.
How long does the CFY take?+
Full-time, the CFY takes a minimum of 36 weeks (approximately 9 months). Most SLPs complete it in 9 to 12 months. Part-time completion extends proportionally.
Does travel SLP count toward CFY?+
Yes, travel SLP positions can satisfy CFY requirements as long as the facility provides a qualified CCC-SLP supervisor and all ASHA requirements are met. Some agencies specialize in placing CFY-eligible SLPs.