Introduction: Why Become a Financial Advisor?
Financial advisors are trusted professionals who help clients plan for their financial future — from investments and retirement to insurance and estate planning. In South Africa, this career is highly rewarding, both in terms of earning potential and job satisfaction.
With the right training, qualifications, and regulatory compliance, you can enter this lucrative field through INSETA-accredited programmes, company learnerships, or specialised financial planning courses.
1. What Does a Financial Advisor Do?
A financial advisor works with individuals or businesses to:
- Assess financial needs and goals.
- Recommend investment, savings, and insurance products.
- Create long-term financial plans.
- Ensure clients remain financially protected through risk management.
2. Why Financial Advisor Training is Essential
Financial advising is a regulated profession in South Africa. This means you must meet specific training and certification requirements before you can offer advice.
Proper training ensures you:
- Comply with FAIS (Financial Advisory and Intermediary Services Act).
- Pass the RE5 exam to become a registered representative.
- Build trust with clients through professionalism and knowledge.
- Gain practical skills in sales, client management, and product knowledge.
3. Types of Financial Advisor Training in 2025
a) Learnership Programmes
Offered by companies like Old Mutual, Sanlam, Liberty, and Momentum, these combine theoretical study with workplace training.
b) INSETA Bursaries
Funded programmes for unemployed youth or upskilling employees in the insurance and finance industries.
c) Short Courses & Skills Programmes
Specialised training on financial products, investment planning, or compliance.
d) University Qualifications
Degrees or diplomas in financial planning, economics, or business.
4. Entry Requirements for Financial Advisor Training
While each programme varies, most require:
- Matric (Grade 12) with Mathematics or Accounting.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- South African citizenship.
- A clean criminal and credit record.
- Sales or customer service experience (advantageous but not essential).
5. Key Skills You’ll Learn
A good training programme equips you with:
- Product Knowledge – Understanding investment, insurance, and retirement products.
- Financial Planning – Creating personalised financial strategies.
- Compliance Training – FAIS, FICA, and POPIA regulations.
- Sales Skills – Building relationships and closing deals.
- Analytical Thinking – Assessing client needs and risks.
6. Passing the RE5 Exam
The RE5 (Regulatory Examination for Representatives) is a mandatory assessment for anyone providing financial advice in South Africa.
What the RE5 Covers:
- FAIS legislation and compliance.
- Ethical financial advising practices.
- Client needs analysis and documentation.
Most training programmes include RE5 preparation to help you pass on your first attempt.
7. Top Companies Offering Financial Advisor Training in 2025
Old Mutual
Structured training and mentorship, with a focus on client acquisition and wealth management.
https://careers.oldmutual.com/
Sanlam
Known for its Sanlam Advisor Academy, offering intensive sales and product training.
https://www.sanlam.co.za/careers
Liberty Life
Offers comprehensive financial planning training, including RE5 support.
https://www.liberty.co.za/
Momentum Metropolitan
Provides learnerships for aspiring financial planners with a focus on retirement and investment products.
https://www.momentummetropolitan.co.za/
8. The Role of INSETA in Financial Advisor Training
The Insurance Sector Education and Training Authority (INSETA) plays a crucial role in developing financial advisors by:
- Funding training and learnerships.
- Offering bursaries for full qualifications.
- Accrediting training providers to meet industry standards.
You can apply for INSETA bursaries to cover tuition, study materials, and sometimes living expenses.
9. Career Opportunities After Training
Once qualified, you can work as:
- Independent Financial Advisor (IFA)
- Corporate Financial Planner
- Wealth Manager
- Retirement Fund Consultant
- Risk & Insurance Advisor
With experience, you can specialise in high-value areas such as estate planning or investment portfolio management.
10. Tips to Succeed as a Financial Advisor
- Build Strong Networks – Client referrals are key to success.
- Stay Updated – Keep learning about new financial products and legislation.
- Focus on Trust – Clients value honesty and transparency.
- Be Resilient – Sales can be challenging, so persistence is important.
11. Why 2025 is the Right Time to Start
With South Africa’s growing middle class and increasing need for retirement planning, the demand for qualified financial advisors is on the rise. Regulatory changes and digital tools are reshaping the industry, creating opportunities for well-trained advisors to thrive.
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Conclusion
Financial advisor training in South Africa is your first step to entering a profession with high earning potential and long-term stability. Whether you choose an INSETA-funded learnership, a company academy, or a university qualification, the combination of skills, compliance knowledge, and industry credibility you’ll gain will set you up for success.
If you’re passionate about helping people achieve financial security, start your training journey in 2025 — your future clients are waiting.