Most people think financial modeling is just spreadsheets and formulas. But here's what we've learned after working with hundreds of students — it's about understanding how businesses actually make decisions with money.
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Program Director
I spent eight years in accounting before realizing I wanted to help others build financial analysis skills. Started teaching part-time in 2019, and by 2023, I was developing full programs. What surprised me most? People don't need complicated theory first. They need to see how real companies build their models, then we work backward to understand why it works.
Financial modeling isn't one giant skill. It breaks down into specific capabilities that you can learn step by step. Here's where most of our students spend their time.
You learn how to forecast revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Not the fantasy numbers that look good on paper, but realistic projections that account for seasonality, growth constraints, and market conditions.
Understanding what a business is worth involves multiple approaches. We cover DCF models, comparable company analysis, and precedent transactions. Each method tells you something different about value.
The best models show what happens if things change. You build sensitivity tables, run different scenarios, and help decision-makers understand risk. This is where the real value comes in.
We structure the learning path based on what actually works. This isn't rigid — some people move faster through certain sections, others spend more time on specific skills.
You start with Excel fundamentals and basic financial statements. No modeling yet — just making sure everyone understands what the numbers mean and how businesses organize financial information. Some students breeze through this, others need the full two months.
This is where it gets interesting. You build your first three-statement model from scratch, working with real company data. Expect to rebuild parts of it several times as you understand how the statements connect.
Now you work on valuation models, merger analysis, and leveraged buyout scenarios. The complexity increases, but so does your ability to see patterns. Most students find this phase challenging but rewarding.
Final phase focuses on building models you can show employers or use in your current role. You choose industries that interest you and create comprehensive analysis. This becomes your proof of capability.
You don't need to be an Excel wizard before starting, but basic comfort with formulas, cell references, and navigation saves enormous time later. If you're still clicking individual cells instead of using keyboard shortcuts, spend a weekend learning those first.
See program details →Your first models should focus on businesses you already know something about. Retail, restaurants, or service companies often work well because the business model is clear. Save complex industries like biotech or banking for later.
Learn our approach →Four hours per week over six months produces better results than weekend marathons. Financial modeling requires building mental models that need time to solidify. Regular practice helps patterns stick.
View schedule options →Every experienced modeler has built broken models. The difference is they've learned to check their work systematically. We teach error-checking methods that help you catch problems before they compound. Your first models will have issues, and that's expected.
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