Why Get Certified

For Students

College is a great time to consider a rewarding career as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Demand for financial advisors is expected to grow fast, at a rate of 13% through 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics — and USA Today notes that careers in financial services can start between $50-70K a year, with experienced financial advisors earning $192,000/year, on average. Earning CFP® certification is a solid investment in your future, sought after by firms and clients alike.

Why CFP® Certification Is a Smart Career Move

Career satisfaction. Growth potential. Competitive edge. See how earning CFP® certification can put you on the path to a rewarding profession with an impressive career outlook.

Compensation

$192K

Experienced financial advisors earn, on average, $192,000 a year.*

Trust

90%

of investors see a potential financial advisor’s certifications as important.

Satisfaction

89%

are satisfied with their decision to pursue CFP® certification.

Is Financial Planning Right for Me?

Financial planners work one-on-one with their clients to develop strategies for meeting their short- and long-term goals. From paying off debt to saving for retirement and short-term financial targets to long-term wealth management, financial planners partner with their clients to help them plan for a secure future.

Working With People

Building trusting relationships with clients is key to a successful financial planning career.

Setting Your Own Schedule

Whether you have your own practice or work for a large firm, many financial planners enjoy the flexibility that comes with the job.

Career Growth & Jobs

The demand for financial planners is growing – and the U.S. Labor Department reports that jobs in financial planning are expected to grow faster than average through 2032.

Matt's Journey to CFP® Certification

More About Matt

All CFP® Professional Stories

The CFP® certification felt better than even just getting my college degree.

Matt Aaron

CFP® Professional

HOW DO I GET CERTIFied?

The "Four E's" make up the CFP® certification process: Education, Experience, Exam and Ethics. The 2-part education requirement includes (1) a bachelor's degree in any discipline, and (2) completing coursework through a CFP Board Registered Program. If your college or university offers a financial planning curriculum registered with CFP Board, you can fulfill this requirement through attaining your degree. If you're close to graduation, you may also want to register for the CFP® exam.

SOURCES

* USA Today, “From taxes to retirement: Everything to know about the evolving role of financial advisers”