Why Get Certified

For Students

College is a great time to think about finding a rewarding career as a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Demand for personal financial advisors is expected to grow at a faster than average rate of 7% through 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earning CFP® certification is a solid investment in your future, trusted and sought after by firms and clients alike.

Why CFP® Certification Is a Smart Career Move

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

Trust

90%

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

Success

86%

of CFP® professionals say that certification has had a positive impact on their career satisfaction.

Satisfaction

91%

of CFP® professionals surveyed say they 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 2028.

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.