What is a CFP Course?
Certified Financial Planner is a certification awarded by the Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB) to interested candidates who want to build a career in financial planning. CFP is an internationally recognized certification and is considered one of the highest and best programs in financial planning. According to the FPSB definition, financial planning is the “process of developing strategies to help people manage their financial affairs to meet life goals”. The job of a financial planner is to help a client analyze their financial status, develop a financial plan, and implement financial plans that have long-term benefits for the client.
Career Opportunities After a Financial Planning Certification
There are many jobs reserved for certified financial planners. From high-paying jobs in the banking sector to brokerages and AMCs, opportunities knock at your door. Career opportunities for CFPs are on the rise today as the number of high-net-worth individuals is also increasing. You must also understand that few CFPs are practicing in the country though the demand for qualified and certified financial planners is still huge. Becoming a CFP is a big opportunity to open many career options.
What Does a CFP Course Entail?
To become a CFP, you need to be certified by the FPSB. The certification is open to everyone – from 12th pass students with a background in finance to CAs, CFAs, CSS, LLBs, PhDs, and postgraduates. The course for under-graduates consists of six modules while for post-graduates and other degree holders the sixth module on Advanced Financial Planning is of utmost importance.
According to the revised course as applicable since 2020, CFP has become a 4-in-1 certification program which means that you get awarded with four certifications upon completion of the program. Upon completion of each level, you get an internationally recognized certification.
- Level 1 CFP – FPSB® Investment Specialist – This is an international certification that helps you specialize in Equity, Debt, and Mutual Funds.
- Level 2 CFP – FPSB® Retirement & Tax Specialist – Through this international certification, you become authorized to help in retirement planning, income tax filing, wealth building, tax saving, and tax planning.
- Level 3 CFP – FPSB® Risk & Legacy Specialist – After this internationally recognized certification, you can pursue a career in risk planning, life insurance, general insurance, real estate planning, and legacy planning.
- Level 4 CFP – Certified Financial Planner – The final certification makes you an official CFP. With this certification, you can work as a financial advisor, planner, investment advisor, and finance professional.
There are six modules in the course that must be completed. These six modules are –
- Module I – Introduction to Financial Planning
- Module II – Risk Analysis & Insurance Planning
- Module III – Retirement Planning & Employees Benefits
- Module IV – Investment Planning
- Module V – Tax Planning & Estate Planning
- Module VI – Advanced Financial Planning
How to Enrol in a CFP Course?
There are two ways to complete the CFP course – the instructor-led path and the self-study method. In the former method, you enroll with an authorized institution that helps you throughout the program. From providing you with study materials to conducting mock tests and industry-experienced teaching, you get several advantages.
The FPSB has authorized a few educational institutions to help aspirants prepare for the exams. You can get all details on their official website.
The other method is the self-study route where you are your teacher. You gather all the materials, study at your own pace and sit for the examinations.
Conclusion
If you are planning to become a CFP, enrolling in an instructor-led course may be the best idea for you. Find out more about the colleges offering financial planner courses and enroll in the best program.