If you were to ask CeMAP qualified mortgage advisors which way round they did the CeMAP 1 and CeMAP 2 & 3 exams, you will no doubt get different answers.
Which to study first is a question many prospective mortgage advisors struggle with and is a personal choice. It really does not matter in which order you decide to sit them, however, the following information may be useful in helping you to decide.
Firstly consider the material involved. CeMAP 1 covers UK regulation and includes other necessary topics that you need to have an overview of if you wish to become a mortgage advisor. As such, many people find this the tougher syllabus, because they have little interest in the other areas.
CeMAP 2 & 3 concentrate upon the practical elements of mortgage advice and knowledge. They are two separate exams but have the same study material, so you should be able to take both exams after completing your study.
The case for doing CeMAP 2 & 3 exams first:
If you do CeMAP 2 & 3 first, then CeMAP 1 is the final hurdle and this spurs many people on. In addition, if you have already done CeMAP 2 & 3, then all the mortgage references in CeMAP 1 have already been covered and you may find CeMAP 1 easier as you are able to concentrate on the other areas.
The case for doing CeMAP 1 exam first:
By doing CeMAP 1 first, you will have done the hardest part for most people and many people find CeMAP 2 & 3 relatively easy after CeMAP 1. CeMAP 1 also gives you an overview of many different areas, including mortgages, so you will already have an overview of several elements of mortgage advice before you start CeMAP 2 & 3.
The ‘traditional’ or ‘normal’ way would be doing CeMAP 1 first, followed by CeMAP 2 & 3, however, you may decide otherwise having read the CeMAP advice above.
If you are still in doubt, speak to the CeMAP training company. A good CeMAP training company, such as Beacon, will be happy to discuss your personal circumstances and offer you advice.
