Are There Apprenticeships Available for Mortgage Brokers?

When I started in the mortgage industry, I was lucky enough to go through an apprenticeship-style trainee role with Connells. It gave me hands-on experience, structured learning, and a proper introduction to the world of mortgage advice. But looking back, I realise how rare that opportunity was. Today, one of the most common questions I get asked is: Are mortgage broker apprenticeships still a viable route into the industry?

Why Is There a Growing Demand for Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships?

Traditionally, most mortgage brokers either stumbled into the industry through financial services experience or took the self-study route, passing their CeMAP exams before finding a firm willing to take them on. But for many, that process is daunting. The costs, the lack of structure, and the uncertainty can hold people back from even getting started.

This is why mortgage adviser apprenticeships are becoming more of a talking point. They provide structured training, hands-on experience, and—most importantly—a way to earn while learning. But here’s the catch: they’re still not as widely available as they should be.

What Happens If Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships Remain Limited?

If the industry doesn’t provide clearer entry routes, we risk missing out on talented, driven people who simply don’t know where to begin. Think about it—how many people could have been great mortgage brokers but gave up because they didn’t have the time, money, or support to figure it all out on their own?

And for those who do manage to get in, the lack of structured training often means they struggle longer than necessary, leading to a high dropout rate. The financial services industry has already seen shifts in how people qualify, and mortgage broking careers could follow suit.

What Do You Need to Know About Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships?

So, if you or someone you know is looking to enter the industry through an apprenticeship in mortgage advice, here’s what you should be aware of:

1. Where Can You Find Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships?

Mortgage broker apprenticeships in the UK do exist, but they’re not always well advertised. Banks, building societies, and larger broker firms occasionally offer them, often under “Financial Services Apprenticeships” rather than specifically “Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships.”

2. Do Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships Include CeMAP Training?

A proper mortgage adviser apprenticeship should include studying for the Certificate in Mortgage Advice and Practice (CeMAP), which is required to be a qualified mortgage broker in the UK. Some firms will cover the cost of training as part of the apprenticeship.

3. Is an Apprenticeship the Best Route to Becoming a Mortgage Broker?

Unlike self-study routes, which can get you CeMAP qualified in a matter of months, mortgage broker apprenticeships typically last 12 to 24 months. However, the trade-off is hands-on experience and a guaranteed job at the end, which can be more beneficial in the long run. If you’re unsure whether to go the apprenticeship or self-study route, check out this video on the best way to qualify as a mortgage broker.

4. Are Mortgage Broker Apprenticeships Only for School Leavers?

While mortgage adviser apprenticeships are often marketed to 16- to 18-year-olds, many are open to career changers. If you’re in a related field—such as banking, sales, or customer service—you might find an employer willing to support your training and help you qualify as a mortgage broker. If you're thinking of transitioning into mortgage broking from another career, this video explains how to make the switch successfully.

5. Will the Mortgage Industry Evolve to Offer More Apprenticeships?

If mortgage broker training programmes became more structured and widely available, the industry could attract a new generation of advisers who are well-trained, confident, and ready to serve clients effectively. It’s something we should be pushing for to improve access to mortgage broker careers.

What’s the Lesson Here for Business and Career Growth?

Structured learning and mentorship can accelerate progress. Whether you're new to mortgage broking or already in the game, having a clear path, guidance, and real-world experience makes all the difference. The same applies to growing a mortgage business—winging it only gets you so far. The more structured your approach, the faster and more effectively you’ll grow.