How do you become a trader?

To become a trader, earn a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, apply for an internship at an investment bank, build business connections, and complete on-the-job training. Practice for a licensing exam, and obtain a license in trading, if necessary.

1. Earn a bachelor's or master's degree

   Earn a bachelor's degree in finance, business, accounting or economics. Before your final year of college, apply for a summer internship at an investment bank, hedge fund or brokerage firm, and gain experience in trading. To obtain a high-level trading position, become a Master of Business Administration. Develop business connections during college and internships, and then apply for a full-time trading job.

2. Complete on-the-job training

   Once hired for a full-time trading position, complete an on-the-job training program. Attend training seminars and conferences to update your knowledge of industry services, products and developments.

3. Take certification exams, and earn a license

   If a company requires certification to practice trading, register with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Apply for a license in your specialty, and then study for the relevant licensing exams. Pass the exams to earn your license. If your company offers a training program to assist traders seeking certification, complete the training program.