Author: Alison Price   –   Updated: March 2025

Astrological Certification

Levels of Astrologers

5 Levels:

Before we start, take a look at the 5 levels of astrologer to help determine where you are in your astrologer’s journey and maybe help decide about certification or not.

See which level you are at now.

The five levels of astrologer are:

• Level 1: Hobbyist astrologer.
• Level 2: Student astrologer.
• Level 3: Amateur astrologer.
• Level 4: Professional astrologer.
• Level 5: Master astrologer.

Astrological Certification

Do You Need It?

Today, let’s explore astrological certification and whether or not you actually need it to practice astrology professionally.

Formal Classes

At its core, astrological certification means enrolling in formal astrology courses, studying the subject systematically, and passing exams at beginner, intermediate and advanced levels and in some cases specialty topics. These structured programs ensure that you meet certain knowledge criteria, much like formal education in any field. But does certification truly determine whether someone is a capable astrologer?

“Most people can fry an egg, but they don’t call themselves chefs.”

The analogy above highlights an important distinction.  Just because someone can read a birth chart doesn’t necessarily make them a professional astrologer, just as cooking at home doesn’t automatically make someone a chef. But does this mean you must have a certificate to be recognized as an astrologer? Let’s examine both sides of the argument.

No, You Don’t Need Astrological Certification

Anyone Can Open Shop

The short answer is no, you don’t need certification to call yourself an astrologer. Unlike professions such as real estate people or psychologists, astrology is not regulated by any official body. This means that anyone, regardless of training, or lack thereof, can set up a practice, offer readings and provide astrological insights to clients.

Art

In this way, astrology is much like art. Whether someone paints detailed portraits in oil or crafts wooden birdhouses, their work is still considered art. Similarly, whether an astrologer is self-taught or formally trained, their ability to interpret the natal chart and forecast remains valid.

The Old Guys of Astrology Were Self-Taught

Many of the most famous astrologers in history were self-taught. They didn’t attend astrology schools or sit for formal exams because there was no structured certification available when they began. Yet, through years of study, practice, and experience, they became masters of their craft. After spending twenty- or thirty-years studying astrology, a person gains expertise that no certificate can replace. At some point, experience and real-world application surpass the need for formal training.

Astrology as Entertainment

It’s also worth noting that astrology is often viewed as a practice “for entertainment purposes only.” Many astrology businesses include this disclaimer for legal reasons. Because astrology is not universally recognized as a science or regulated profession, certification remains optional rather than mandatory.

Yes, You Do Need Astrological Certification

When Certification Makes Sense

While you don’t need certification, there are certain situations where pursuing formal training could be beneficial to you in the long run.

If You Are Brand New to Astrology


If you’ve been studying astrology for less than a year, structured courses can be incredibly helpful. Formal classes provide a well-rounded foundation, ensuring you don’t develop gaps in your knowledge, which is a common issue among self-taught learners.

If You Want to Be Recognized as an Authority


If your goal is to establish credibility, either with the general public or within the astrological community, certification can definitely boost your brand and reputation. Some organizations, astrology schools and professional networks place value on credentials. Having an astrological certification can lend legitimacy to your work, especially if you plan to teach, write books, or speak at conferences.

What to Look for in an Astrologer

Note For Astrologers

Consider what your clients are looking for in an astrologer and whether you measure up. These are also ideas for you to have on your website and promotions pages.

Note For Potential Clients

If you are a potential client and you are looking an astrologer for a reading, mentorship, or guidance, here are some key qualities that you may like to consider before making your pick.

Experience and Knowledge


A skilled astrologer should have a strong foundation in astrology, whether through formal training or years of self-study and practice. If your astrologer has recognized astrological certifications they will state them.

Reputation and Reviews


Look for client testimonials, reviews, or recommendations from trusted sources to make sure your potential astrologer has a positive track record. Remember that word-of-mouth recommendations are best.

Ethical Practices


A reputable astrologer should provide guidance without making extreme predictions or fear-based readings. If they write horoscopes, you can get a feel for their style in the forecasts they have written for each sign. Astrology should empower, not frighten.

Clear Communication


A good astrologer explains complex astrological concepts in a way that is easy to understand and relevant to your life. This may not be easy to determine to start with. Read their blogs, YouTube, podcasts, books and about page for a better idea.

Personal Connection


The best astrologer for you is someone whose approach resonates with your beliefs, values, and personal growth goals. Typically, your chosen astrologer’s natal chart will make significant connections to your own birth chart.

Overarch

Personal Choice

At the end of the day, whether or not to pursue astrological certification is a personal decision. It depends on your goals, what your learning style is and how you want to position yourself in the field.

Formal Recognition

If you’re passionate, dedicated and continuously learning, certification is probably not a requirement. However, if you thrive in structured environments and you carve formal recognition, it may be worth considering. Regardless of the path you choose, what truly matters is your skill, integrity and commitment to the art, craft or science of astrology.

Astrological Certification Bodies

Australia

Federation of Australian Astrologers (FAA)

Canada

Canadian Association of Astrological Education, Toronto, Ontario.

Halifax School of Astrology, Halifax Nova Scotia.

RASA School of Astrology, Toronto, Ontario.

UK

Faculty of Astrological Studies London, England. RECOMMENDED

London School of Astrology (LSA).

MA, Cultural Astronomy and Astrology: the University of Wales Trinity Saint David at Lampeter, Wales.

USA

American Federation of Astrologers (AFA)

International Society Astrological Research (ISAR)

National Council for Geocosmic Research (NCGR)

There are more astrological education bodies, but these are the ones that come to mind.

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Personal Recommendation

My personal recommendation for world class astrological training is for The Faculty of Astrological Studies in London, England. You can check out my article on The Transiting Morning (Oriental) Planet which I wrote for them way back.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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