APF members meet a minimum of two of qualification criteria established by the Association.

The criteria for full membership include: being employed as a consulting or organizational futurist, obtaining a Post-Graduate Degree in Futures Studies, or demonstrating competence in speaking, teaching, or writing. Please see our 'Membership Information' section for other membership options.

The criteria are:

• Consulting – The member has consulted with a minimum of two clients in each of the last three years, or three clients within the last twelve months on engagements that employ the perspective and/or methodology of futures research. May be a sole practitioner or partner/staff in consultancy.
• Organizational Function – The member is in a position that regularly employs the perspective and/or methodology of futures research.
• Post-Graduate Degree – The member has earned a post-graduate degree in futures research, futures studies or a comparable field.
• Speaking – The member has delivered a minimum of two speeches or presentations on the future (paid or not) in each of the last three years, or three within the last twelve months. Each was given before an external audience.
• Teaching – The member currently teaches, or has taught, a course on the future or on futures theory – or methodology
• Writing – The member has published a minimum of three magazine or journal articles and/or one book that is/are about the future or futures theory – or methodology.