Those who have done Cemap also financial advisers

When are you due to start writing business?

quote:Originally posted by claires
when are you due to start writing business?

A bit boring, its very quiet, selling more protection than anything else at the moment.

We're busy in my office but not really me personally selling wise IYKWIM. Our office is very - mortgages with protection added on. Because I can only do protection it's quite hard as we don't get people looking for it on it's own.

Also I think because I'm the junior here, clients don't want to deal with me if they can see someone who dealt with them before and we have quite a loyal client base - not lots of new people unless they are getting mortgages too - which I can't do [V]

I went through something very similar a while back did CeMAP 1, then flew through 2 and 3 in quick succession while weighing up the same options you’re considering. To answer your first point, yes, the CeMAP 2 and 3 modules are computer-based and you're allowed to move on early if you finish before the time limit. I finished mine with time to spare and just reviewed a few flagged questions before submitting. They’re definitely more application-focused compared to CeMAP 1, which is heavier on theory and definitions.

On the career front, I think it depends on your long-term goals. Banks can give you structure and early support, but they do tend to be restrictive with product offerings, as others have mentioned. Larger IFAs or wealth management firms often offer broader exposure and a better foundation if you're serious about moving into full financial advising or planning. I’ve seen a few people thrive after starting in trainee roles with firms like Mercer Wealth Management , where they get mentorship, structured progression, and access to holistic planning not just mortgages or basic products. That kind of environment can really help you build lasting client relationships and tailor strategies to individual goals.

Whatever route you choose, you’re thinking in the right direction by completing CeMAP. It’s a strong foundation, but pairing it with practical experience in a supportive environment makes all the difference.

I sat my CeMAP a few years back and remember the computer-based exams being pretty flexible. If you finish a module early, you can normally move on without waiting for the full 30 minutes to run out, it’s designed to keep things moving. Compared to CeMAP 1, I found 2 and 3 a bit more practical in focus, so if you’ve been around the industry already, the content should feel more straightforward.

As for career direction, it really depends on what you want long-term. A bank role can give you structure and a clear path, but you’ll usually be tied to a limited product set. Larger financial advisory firms or independent practices tend to offer more variety and independence, which many find more rewarding once they’re established. I’ve seen colleagues who started in trainee roles at banks but eventually moved over to advisory firms once they wanted broader opportunities.

If your ultimate goal is full financial planning, it’s worth exploring firms that invest in training and support. Some advisory firms, such as RetireStrong Financial Advisors , emphasize building long-term client relationships and can provide exposure to a wide range of planning strategies beyond mortgages. That kind of environment can really help you grow your skills beyond just ticking the exam boxes.