How to qualify as a mortgage advisor

February 20, 2026 by Brendan O'Neill

Mortgage Advisors

Working as a mortgage advisor can be very rewarding. It offers the satisfaction of providing a helpful service to the public and has lots of opportunities for advancement. However, it is a skilled career and requires certain qualifications. This blog will outline how to qualify.

Key Steps to Qualification

Study for CeMAP

The main task that you will have to achieve is successfully completing one of the core qualifications. Most budding advisors choose to study for the Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP). This is the industry-standard course for mortgage advisors and is offered by the London Institute of Banking and Finance (LIBF). The course contains a total of three modules: CeMAP 1, CeMAP 2 and CeMAP 3.

Between them, these modules cover everything you will need to know about the industry. The typical completion time for the CeMAP course is anything from six months to two years and it can be studied at a training centre or using an online CeMAP training company. Some providers do offer a fast-track version that lasts for two weeks though.

Alternative Qualifications

The primary alternative to CeMAP is the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Certificate in Mortgage Advice. This is also officially recognised within the industry.

Obtain ‘Competent Advisor Status’ (CAS)

After you have completed the course and passed the exam, you will have to secure ‘Competent Advisor Status (CAS). This involves working at trainee level for a company or as an independent advisor.

FCA Registration

You will also have to apply to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) for registration as an ‘approved person’.

Additional Information

Necessary Skills

A mortgage advisor needs to possess strong communication and interpersonal skills so they can develop a rapport with clients. They also need to be good at mathematics and have a commitment to accuracy and personal integrity.

Career Paths

After qualifying, you can apply to work for a building society or bank. You can also choose to be a self-employed advisor.

Further Qualifications

If you want to broaden your scope to include later life lending advice, you can study for the Certificate in Regulated Equity Release (CeRER) qualification.