What is an SLP CFY?
All About the Speech-Language Pathology Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY)
If you’re on your journey to becoming a fully licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP), chances are you’ve heard of the Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY). More than just a graduation requirement, this exciting step is where future SLPs get to put their classroom knowledge into real-world experience.
But what exactly is an SLP CFY, and what does it involve? In this Soliant guide, learn everything you need to know about SLP CFYs.
What is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY)?
The Clinical Fellowship Year (CFY) is a required phase between completing your graduate coursework and applying for your Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). It provides aspiring SLPs with a year of experience working under the guidance of a licensed and certified mentor.
During this time, SLPs learn how to put their skills into practice, from managing caseloads and gaining the hands-on experience needed to become a confident, independent clinician.
What Are the Requirements?
To begin your CFY, you’ll need to have:
- A master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program
- A temporary or provisional state license (requirements vary by state)
- A position that meets ASHA’s requirements for clinical fellowship experience
- A qualified mentor who holds their CCC-SLP and meets supervision standards
Your CFY must include:
- At least 36 weeks of full-time work (or the part-time equivalent)
- A minimum of 1,260 hours of supervised clinical practice
- At least 80% of your time spent in direct clinical contact
- Ongoing supervision and feedback from your CF mentor, including formal evaluations
Once your CFY is successfully completed and signed off by your supervisor, you’re eligible to apply for your CCCs.
What are the Duties of an SLP CFY?
While your duties will depend on the setting, many SLP clinical fellows gain experience in the following day-to-day tasks under the supervision and guidance of a licensed SLP:
- Evaluate speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders
- Develop and implement individualized treatment plans
- Provide therapy sessions
- Collaborate with families, educators, and other specialists
- Document progress and maintain accurate records
- Participate in IEP meetings (if working in a school setting)
- Learn time management, caseload organization, and how to handle paperwork like a pro
Ready to Start Your SLP CFY Journey?
Your Clinical Fellowship Year isn’t just a box to check; it’s the foundation for your career. This year gives you space to ask questions, make mistakes, grow your skills, and truly discover what kind of SLP you want to be.
At Soliant, we specialize in connecting new SLP graduates with school-based CFY opportunities across the country. Whether you’re looking to work in a big city or a tight-knit rural community, our team is here to help you find the right fit and the right support.
Explore SLP CFY opportunities and SLP roles with Soliant today, and take the next step in your journey to becoming a confident, certified SLP!
Looking for more SLP career insights? Browse Soliant’s school therapy resources here, including resume outlines and templates, Praxis exam guides, and more!
