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Why Get Certified

For Students

Financial planning is a great career in high demand. Demand for personal financial advisors is expected to grow significantly, at a rate of 10% through 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And, according to McKinsey and Co. the profession is projected to be short by up to 100,000 advisors by 2034.

Why Choose Financial Planning

A career in financial planning may be right for you if you enjoy a rewarding career in a growing industry that lets you work closely with people and carve out your own career path.

High Earning Potential

Recent research shows that financial planners have a media compensation of $185,000 per year, with CFP ® professionals earning 13% more than non-certified financial advisors.

Purpose & Impact

Financial planning is a helping profession. Clients will look to you to help reach their financial goals. From buying their first home to funding their children’s education and achieving their dream retirement.

Work-Life Balance

Many financial planners enjoy the flexibility that the profession offers, giving them time to manage their career and personal goals without sacrificing either.

Student Guide Cover Image

Student Guide to Financial Planning Careers

Developed by the CFP Board Center for Financial Planning, with support from Vanguard, whether you’re a student in a CFP Board Registered Program aiming to advance towards certification, or simply exploring financial planning as a career, we hope you use these resources, testimonials, and stories to inspire and guide you.

Meet the CFP Ambassadors

Read the stories to hear more from our CFP Board Ambassadors about a career in financial planning.

Start Your Journey to CFP® Certification

Join the ranks of more than 107,000 CFP® professionals who are enjoying the rewards that come with getting certified. Create your free account to access valuable resources and track you progress.

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