Amplified Planning externship enrolls record 2,700 participants

Amplified Planning’s virtual eight-week Externship enrolled a record 2,700 participants this summer, rising from 2,078 last year. The program was created in 2020 by founder Hannah Moore after many firms canceled in-person internships during the pandemic. McKinsey estimates the industry could be short about 100,000 advisors over the next decade.

The Externship runs entirely online and emphasizes hands-on tasks. Each week is themed to teach practical skills such as client onboarding, client care and daily advisory operations. Participants complete readings and quizzes, view recorded advisor-client sessions with client permission and receive temporary access to industry software platforms for hands-on practice.

Since converting to a fully virtual format, the program has graduated more than 6,500 participants. This year Amplified Planning added 13 sponsors, including the CFP Board and Charles Schwab. Organizers say enrollment has grown each year and this summer’s class marks a program high.

The participant pool spans high school students, college students and career changers. Organizers reported that 38 percent of the 2025 cohort are middle-aged professionals exploring a transition into financial planning. The program schedule is designed so people can take part while working full time or caring for family.

Moore said there is strong demand for financial planning and that the industry lacks the training infrastructure to meet it. The Externship was meant to give people direct exposure to day-to-day advisory work and mentorship before they seek jobs or pursue certification.

Returning externs described the practical focus as a key difference from classroom training. Amanda Totten, now an advisor at True Wealth Design in Akron, Ohio, said it is helpful to observe real client meetings and to use software logins for an extended period. She added that the program’s alumni forum provides ongoing peer support for new advisors.

Program leaders say the Externship targets common reasons new advisors leave early, such as limited structured training and mentorship at entry-level roles. Sponsors and partner firms use the course to introduce externs to different practice models, with the expectation that some participants will move into full-time roles or pursue further certification after completing the program.