Can you become a mortgage advisor with no financial background?

March 25, 2026 by Brendan O'Neill

Mortgage Advisors

Mortgage advice is a market that a lot of people are keen to get into, because it is a service that the public will always need.

It is a skilled career, though, and that sometimes makes people wary of pursuing it – especially if they do not have any previous experience in the financial services sector. However, is that an issue that should hold you back?

The answer is no, because a financial background is not an essential requirement. It is a common career change for people partly because that kind of formal industry experience is not needed. This blog will outline what you will need.

Obtain qualifications

You may not need experience in financial services, but you will have to gain an appropriate qualification. The one that the majority of mortgage advisors gain is the Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP). It is the equivalent to an A-Level and is a course that can be studied with no particular prerequisites. CeMAP is made up of three modules that can be studied online or at a training centre.

These days, an increasing number of prospective advisors complete the course using an online CeMAP training company. Aside from being convenient, many of those companies offer a free trial course. That allows you to find out if it is something you want to pursue before paying for the full course.

Complete FCA registration

If you manage to complete the CeMAP course successfully and pass the exam, the next requirement will be registration. You must register with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), where you will be listed as an ‘approved person’.

Develop core skills

When it comes to applying for employment, there are certain core skills you need to have. A high level of numeracy, attention to detail, empathy and good communication skills are the main ones. Among the ways you can develop those skills are through apprenticeships or entry-level positions at brokers, building societies and banks.

There is no reason why the lack of a background in financial services should hold you back from becoming an advisor.