Becoming a loan officer typically requires at least a high school diploma, although a bachelor’s degree in finance, business, or a related field can be advantageous. Licensure is mandatory for mortgage loan officers and requires passing the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) exam. Essential skills include strong analytical abilities, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to use specialized loan software. Continuous education is often necessary to stay current with regulations and best practices in the industry.
