How to become a stockbroker
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- a graduate training scheme
University
You could start by doing a degree in a relevant subject like:
- management
- business
- economics
- finance
- maths
A course with a placement year or a summer internship will give you valuable experience and an advantage when applying for work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You may be able to get into this job through an investment specialist higher apprenticeship or financial services professional degree apprenticeship.
You will take professional exams as part of these apprenticeships and at the end you will be able to apply for membership of the relevant professional body.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Direct Application
You could move into stockbroking if you have a experience in accountancy, banking or insurance and take further training on the job.
Other Routes
You can apply for a place on a company's graduate training scheme if you have a degree. You'll usually need at least an upper second class degree to apply. Useful subjects include:
- business management
- economics
- finance
- maths
There's a lot of competition for places, so it'll help if you have some relevant work experience.
Many graduates also have a postgraduate qualification like a master's in business administration.
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Registration
- you'll need to register as an 'approved person' by the Financial Conduct Authority
Career tips
You may find it useful to gain professional qualifications from organisations like CFA Institute and Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.
Skills in a second language can also help you to find a job.
Further information
You can find out more about careers and training in stockbroking from the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment and the Chartered Financial Analysts Society UK.