Our approach to qualifications

Whether you’re new to financial advice or already hold one of the qualifications listed below, there are two routes to join our Academy.

 

New to advice?

For those who are new to advice, we work with the Chartered Institute Insurance (CII) to help you obtain the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning in Term 1 of our programme.

Already qualified?

If you’re already qualified, you’ll start directly in Term 2, meaning you’re able to start advising clients within just 9 weeks. 

A guide to qualifications

To give financial advice in the UK, you’ll need to hold a Level 4 Regulated Financial Advice qualification, recognised by the Financial Conduct Authority, and achieve Competent Adviser Status (CAS).

The following qualifications meet the Level 4 requirement and are the most common qualification pathways to becoming a financial adviser.

However, some individuals may have become qualified via an alternative route. 

  • CII’s Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning (DipPFS)
  • LIBF’s Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA)
  • CISI’s Investment Advice Diploma (IAD)*

*For the CISI IAD, you must also complete the Financial Planning & Advice unit or an equivalent, such as Retail Advice and Planning or Private Client Advice.

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Above the UK average for first-time pass rate on exams

Unsure if your qualifications meet the criteria?

 

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Who are the professional bodies?

These organisations provide professional qualifications, training, and continuous development opportunities for their members. They are committed to maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct within the financial services profession.

Explore the sections below to learn more about each professional body and the qualifications they offer for individuals aspiring to provide financial advice:

Your next step

Ready to hear more about joining the St. James’s Place Financial Adviser Academy? Get in touch today.

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