I don't know if it is a product of my being new to the website, or if people just aren't posting it anymore, but I wanted some updated/current advice on the preparation for the CFP exam. I have just began the process of meeting the educational requirement by enrolling in the American College program (seven courses). How difficult were these courses? How much study time should I put in for them? I have started with a couple hours a day, and know that my prep for the actual board exam will have to be much more. But as far as the seven courses just to qualify, what should I expect? Also, since the latest threads I could find on here about the CFP (Looked like 07 or 2011), statistics seem to show that the pass rate for the board exam are going up. Is that due to the test getting easier or the study material getting better? 

Thanks for any input.