Most people struggle with money. They want to save, invest, and plan for the future, but often do not know where to begin. Financial planners bring clarity. They help people make sense of their finances and create plans that make life better.
The Diploma in Financial Planning at Boston City Campus prepares you to do exactly that. It is one of South Africa’s most respected qualifications for aspiring financial advisors. You will gain the knowledge, insight, and professionalism needed to build a meaningful career in finance.
Why financial planning matters
In South Africa, only a small percentage of people can retire comfortably. Many work hard yet never learn how to manage their money effectively. That is where financial planners come in. They help people build security, plan wisely, and turn goals into real outcomes.
This qualification teaches you to see both sides of finance. You will learn the technical skills that drive results and the human understanding that builds trust. It is about listening as much as analysing, and helping people make decisions that lead to stability and peace of mind.
What you will learn
The diploma combines theory with real-world learning. You will explore;
- taxation,
- investment,
- insurance,
- retirement,
- estate planning,
- how to collect and interpret data,
- assess risk,
- and how todesign tailored financial plans for clients.
Each subject helps you build confidence in providing advice that is practical and ethical. By the time you finish, you will be ready to guide clients with skill and empathy.
Professional recognition and career paths
The Diploma in Financial Planning, registered as SAQA ID 123448 at NQF Level 6 with 377 credits, is recognised by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) for Categories I and IV for occupational/professional purposes. This qualification is perfect for individuals who need to meet the FAIS Fit-and-Proper competency requirements or are new to the industry. The FSCA regulates financial institutions providing financial products and services, including banks, insurers, retirement funds and more.
Graduates move into roles such as Financial Advisor, Paraplanner, Investment Consultant, or Client Relationship Manager. Others use the qualification as a foundation for advanced study and further designations through the Financial Planning Institute. It is a career that grows with you and rewards dedication, integrity, and curiosity.
This Diploma is awaiting outcomes for endorsement by the Financial Planning Institute (FPI). The FPI is a South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) recognised professional association for financial planners in South Africa. It is the only institution in South Africa to offer the RFP®, FSA® and internationally recognised CFP® designations and has been approved by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) as a Recognised Controlling Body (RCB).
Graduates of the Diploma in Financial Planning will become eligible for the designation of Financial Services Advisor® (FSA®). Applicants must meet the requirements set by the FPI.
How you will study
This programme is offered fully online, allowing you to balance your studies with work and family commitments. With access to Boston’s 50 learner Support Centres across South Africa, 24/7 access to the online learning platform, and included textbooks, the programme ensures accessibility without hidden costs.
Your educators are registered CFP® professionals, ensuring the advice you receive is professionally relevant and reflective of the industry. They bring practical insight into every lesson and help you apply theory to real scenarios. The result is a learning experience that is flexible, relevant, and career-focused.
Alternative and advanced access routes
For candidates with a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or National Certificate Vocational NC(V) endorsed for higher certificate studies only, or a Further Education and Training (FET) Certificate L4, Boston City Campus offers the accredited one-year Higher Certificate in Financial Planning, FSCA recognised and endorsed by the FPI, which provides recognition and advanced placement into the Diploma in Financial Planning.
Start your journey in financial planning
Every number in a spreadsheet tells a story - a family saving for education, a retiree protecting their future, a young professional investing for the first time. As a financial planner, you’ll help shape those stories, offering guidance that can change lives.
Applications for the Diploma in Financial Planning (NQF Level 6) are now open - your future begins where others find theirs.