If you are interested in numbers, taxation and accounting there are many job opportunities that you can explore. Among the many options to try one is becoming a certified financial planner or CFP. In India, there are still very few CFPs which mean the demand for professional financial planners is very high. Once you get your certification, you can advise on mutual funds investment, insurance, estate and retirement planning, tax planning and much more.
CFP exam pattern – What Are Your Options?
There are two types of programs that you can get enrolled in. First option is the two years Master’s program in Financial Planning and the second option is to get a PG diploma in Financial Planning. In both these programs, you will be taught the basics of financial planning which will prepare you for the demands of the present economy.
If you plan to enrol in a two-year program, you will need a bachelor’s degree for seeking admission. Though there is no hard and fast rule that you should have a degree in commerce, but a background in finance will give you an edge. During the two-year program, you will study in-depth all about financial planning and will also get the opportunity to rub shoulders with industry stalwarts.
In the one-year diploma program, the syllabus is fast-tracked and you will learn things faster and quickly. Since the program is much more focused, you will also need to be more dedicated.
Course Curriculum
Whether you work for investment companies or banks or you start your own entrepreneurial venture, you should be equipped to handle all kinds of clients with their myriad demands. This is what is taught in any college offering financial planning as a program. Irrespective of the fact that you are doing a diploma program or you are doing a master’s program, the basics of the curriculum remain the same.
During the first semester, you will be taught the basics of financial planning. Here you will learn not only the theories but also about practical application. As you graduate, you will be taught furthermore. If you seek admission in one of the leading colleges in India offering FP as a core subject, you will be taught by the best teachers. Alongside your interaction with the industry will also be huge.
CFP Exam Pattern and What to Expect
For a diploma program, there are two semesters which means two exams. Similarly for the master’s program, there are four semesters which means four set of CFP exams. You will need to accordingly prepare yourself if you want to get the CFP certificate in one go.
Most often there are multiple-choice questions mostly based on case studies. You will be required to understand the case and answer questions most appropriately.
A Career for a Secured Future
Not only is a CFP a prestigious certification but it also opens the doors for many opportunities. You get to work independently but also get the opportunity to work with the best organizations in the field. The sky is the limit. So don’t let this opportunity pass.