Trainees that complete Wall Street Prep’s Premium Package or live seminars are eligible for Wall Street Prep’s Certification in Financial & Valuation Modeling.
We often get asked, “Is Wall Street Prep worth it?”
So in the following post, we’ll address the most important considerations to ensure you make the most informed decision.
Investment banks most often recruit candidates attending undergraduates and MBAs from top “target” schools, such as Harvard, Wharton, NYU, and Princeton.
While bankers are still recruited out of “non-target” schools, the process is less formal and structured.
Most prospective investment bankers pursue undergraduate degrees in finance, business, economics, and accounting, but it is not an application requirement at investment banks.
The statement above can be confirmed by the number of hires with liberal arts and engineering degrees, as banks focus on finding bright, motivated students that can be trained internally and molded, regardless of prior education.
In fact, it is widely recognized that the primary determinant of whether a candidate will get an interview are GPA, the reputation of the undergraduate or MBA program, and past work experience.
The result is that those interviewing for investment banking jobs as well as those eventually landing jobs as incoming analysts (and to some extent associates) have a wide variance in relevant academic backgrounds.
Even for those with undergraduate finance concentrations, the academic skill set is not directly applicable; at most schools, students never learn how to actually perform the types of analysis or build the types of models they would find themselves building on the job from day one.
Investment banks hire companies – such as Wall Street Prep – to provide the highest-quality, rigorous training programs for new hires, with some programs lasting over 2 months).
The objective of Wall Street Prep's Premium Package Certification is for individuals to gain access to the same type of training provided to the top investment banks, private equity firms, and business programs (undergraduate and MBA).
That way, all candidates, even those attending less prestigious schools, have a higher likelihood of landing an offer at the leading firms, as they are equipped with the skill set necessary for the job.
The courses are made available directly to all students, new and experienced hires alike, and are designed to enhance the skills and competitive profile of prospective investment bankers by equipping them with the skill set they will use daily on the job.
Certification is issued upon passing an online assessment which tests the concepts taught in the Premium Package or live seminars.
Upon passing the certification requirements, trainees can place the credential on their resumes, since simply enrolling in a program does not signal to recruiters that one actually completed the program.
The primary determinants of whether a candidate will get an interview are the following:
If you do not have those things in place, no certification will help you, so prioritize those first.
However, when those other elements are in place, the certification can help “round out” the profile.
The reason is that since Wall Street Prep works directly with corporate clients, the certification is a “seal of approval” of sorts that hinges on the reputations of the training providers.
At Wall Street Prep, we consistently receive calls from employers to validate certification claims on candidates’ resumes – employers would only do this if the certification mattered.
For international students and students that come from a liberal arts background, certification is a highly effective way to demonstrate basic competence in financial concepts and modeling.
So those who complete the program and receive our certification have the option to place it on their resumes. While some recruiters might not view the credential as a “significant” resume booster, others believe that the certification does in fact enhance a student's academic profile.
But frankly, understanding financial modeling can only serve to benefit you in interviews and on the job.
It should be noted that some have argued that such a credential may potentially be counter-productive because it will expose the trainee to more challenging technical questions.
This is a red herring; it is true that the more candidates represent what they know during interviews, the more they will be challenged.
But this is not unique to candidates who complete a program like this: A finance major will undoubtedly receive more challenging technical questions than a music major.
But stronger resumes are also more likely to lead to an interview in the first place.
From our experience, if the candidate is careful about not “overselling” the experience, the advantages of using such a Certification as a credential far outweigh any perceived risk.
In closing, Wall Street Prep’s certification offers a way to gain confidence and succeed in interviews and during the networking process by providing students with intuitive, step-by-step training in what they would actually be doing on the job.
Enroll in The Premium Package: Learn Financial Statement Modeling, DCF, M&A, LBO and Comps. The same training program used at top investment banks.
HOw many questions will be asked in the exam?
The Certification Exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and focuses on major modeling topics covered throughout the self-study course.
Is an MBA necessary to break into the industry? Would the combination of sell side experience and being a CFA charter holder/candidate suffice?
I think the latter would suffice if you want to get into investment banking as an analyst. If you want to join as an associate, it’s almost guaranteed that you should get an MBA if you haven’t had prior investment banking experience.
That is helpful. Thank you very much.
This is indeed useful. I was wondering the same, since I come from a tech background (planning on moving into Finance background).
Ali,
Yes and yes – 90 minute exam and you can review the questions after you take the exam – thanks!
Could anyone enlighten me whether we can have more than one attempt to complete/pass the Certification Exam ? just as a matter of precaution .
It’s a great item to add to your resume – look at the other responses below as well – thanks!
Is there a fee for taking the certification exam or it’s included in the course fee?
You have up to three attempts to pass the exam. Every time you do not pass the exam, you would need to wait 1 month before being able to retake it. The passing score is 70%.
What is the validity of a premium package account once I register? I mean is there a maximum time limit for course completion once I enroll?
Hi,
Can I write my certification exam in India?
Is it online or offline?
Thanks.
Two questions:
1. Can I access the premium package on multiple computers (ex, work and home?)
2. Do I have to already be a CFA Charterholder to receive the 35 PD credit hours, or can these be applied prospectively once I receive the Charter?
Thank you
1-Once I pass the exam, will you send me the certificate by express courier if I am outside US?
2- Do we get access to cases so that we practice modelling and keep improving our modelling skills?
1. Yes
2. Please contact Scott Humphries at [email protected] for this question – thanks!
Amit – it is online – you can take the exam from anywhere in the world, provided you have an internet connection – thanks!
Once you enroll in our online courses, you will have lifetime access to them, and can access them anytime.
The certification exam is included in the fee
Thanks!
Hello everyone.
Just one question. I am a chartered accountant in an audit firm and i want to break in the financial sector, mainly the investment banking sector.
I do have a BA in Economics, a Msc in Development economics (a mainly theoretical degree) and, of course, proven expertise in financial accounting, auditing and whatever it is that a chartered accountant does.
The question is whether these seminars offered by this organization (Financial modeling, loan restructuring) are really going to help me to find a job in the aforementioned sectors, or whether i should proceed with an Msc in Finance.
Thank you very much for your time
1) You will be able to view and print the certificate from your My Courses page as soon as you pass the exam.
2) Keep checking back at our website – we’re always introducing new materials, including webinars, that will provide you with additional skills to broaden your horizons!
I am working with a Broking House as a dealer from past 3 years and I have done my PGDM in Marketing. I have very good knowledge about stocks, commodities and derivatives. Do you think this certification will help me to take my career globally. And what is the fee structure in INR and how long is the course. It would be kind of you if you can send all these details.
Aris,
Our courses do not replace formal degrees such as a MS in Finance. But, our courses do give you hands on, practical, real-world modeling skills that you can use immediately in interviews and on the job. You can think of them as a bridge between what you learn academically and what is required “on-the job”. They cover such things as modeling best practices and valuation methodologies used at investment banks and are geared towards helping you interview successfully.
What previous college or technical knowledge in finance should I have before enrolling in your program?
Nikunj,
I’m not sure how you want to expand your career, but our courses are typically used by people across the globe that want to move into investment banking or equity research or similar careers. Please read my response above in regards to our course and certification and their uses. I’ve provided a link (https://www.wallstreetprep.com/self-study-programs/premium-package/) that provides course details, including the cost. The Certification Exam is included in the course package and consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that focus on major modeling topics covered throughout the self-study course.
Shannan
hello i would like to know how much is it cost?
Hi Manuel,
With our courses you can start from ground zero with no knowledge in finance or accounting. I recommend our basic Accounting, Corp Fin and Excel courses to start and then moving in the financial modeling courses.
Shannan
Dear Team,
Will i lose access to all the videos and materials of the premium (online) package if i pass the certification test?
Thank you for all the hard work you are putting into this educational platform.
Mukaddas,
Wall Street Prep’s Certificate of Financial & Valuation Modeling is awarded to those who complete the Premium Package or a Wall Street Prep Financial and Valuation Modeling Boot Camp and have passed the Certification Exam by scoring 70% or above. The 3 hour examination in administered online, and users may attempt to take it no more than 3 times within 24 months from the date of enrollment. Proof of certification is available for users to download upon passing the exam. There are no additional fees.
Shannan
Hi. I am based in Botswana in Southern Africa and would like to know if you have practice tests that one can use to prepare for the exams upon finishing the course.
Hi,
Another Question i had:
Does the exam cover topics that were taught in the advanced LBO modeling as well or only up till the M&A course?
Hi Kshitji,
Absolutely not, you have access to your package indefinitely!
Shannan
How much financial knowledge is required before starting the Wall Street Prep course?
Hi Matome,
We quizzes in some of our courses, but no we do not have any practice exams. The lessons themselves are hands-on practice and should be more than enough to prepare you for the certification exam.
Shannan
Kshitij,
The exam also includes LBO topics.
Shannan
Hi,
Can you elaborate more on how the exam is going to be like? what kind of questions should I expect? Will it be based on a case? Will I be tested on concepts or will I have to build a model?
Hi George,
The course is intended for newbies! We don’t expect you to have any working knowledge of the subject matter before starting the course.
Shannan
How many questions will be asked in the exam? and what is the expected allocated time? is it 50 MCQ questions or 24??
and how will the exam will look like one or few cases? and will there be theoretical questions?
Hi Just had a few questions about the exam:
1. Is the exam timed?
2. Will I be able to view the correct answers once I complete the exam?
Your response is eagerly anticipated
It will be very applied – 50 MCQs – you will have more than enough time to complete the exam.
Hi,
im planning on taking the wallstreetprep exam , how should i prepare myself? i just finished watching the financial modeling lectures and was wondering do i have to watch the entire video listings ? LBOs etc … should i prepare myself by watching the videos or i should also review the materials?…
Best regards,
I would say you should review all courses that have “Premium Package” labeled on them – taking these courses will best equip you for the certification exam – thanks!
thanks Haseeb passed the exam on the 30th dec
best regards,
Bashar abu hwaij
Bashar – great job – apologies for the late response!
I didn’t receive the excel shortcuts PDF. How do I get that with my premium package order?
You can download them here – https://www.wallstreetprep.com/knowledge/excel-shortcuts/
so how long is the exam , how come some says 3 hours some says 90 minutes ?
WSP provides guidance that you should budget approximately 90 minutes to complete the exam.
Hi, guys
Once i fall the exam, would the second exam be same as the first?
Rola,
The exam will test the same content areas, but it will be different from the first.
Haseeb
I am willing to work with the team . thank you
Can we only appear for the examination without enrolling for the premium package?
Hasmit,
You cannot get access to the exams without purchasing the premium package, so it’s in your best interest to review the materials in the premium package before taking an exam. Hope this helps!
Well i just want to appear for the exam as am well versed with the content ,as i am a financial modeler.It would be great if am able to just give exam or almost by paying something am at-least able to appear for the exam
Hasmit,
As this is a very specific request, please reach out to [email protected] – thanks!
Thanks Haseeb
I’ve purchased the 3-day Financial and Valuation Modeling Boot Camp package – will this give me access to the exams? Thank you.
Lin – please reach out to [email protected] for this question – thanks!
Hi. I would like to know the format of the exam. How many attempts we get and is the exam taken online? Thank you.
Amaan,
The certification exam consists of multiple choice and fill in answers. You get two attempts to pass the exam, and yes, the exam is administered online.
Hi,
I was curious as to what happens if you do not pass the exam? Whether it be on your first attempt or additional attempts.
Thank you,
Nick
Nicholas,
You have a maximum of two attempts to pass the exam – hope this helps!
– Haseeb
How many hours the exam and do I needs to pay the course and exam?
Cathy,
We recommend you go through all courses in our Premium Package before you take the certification exam – thanks.
– Haseeb
Would you say obtaining this certification helps when I’m applying to a top tier MBA program? Especially for someone who is not a finance major.
Dylon,
It definitely demonstrates your desire to become more proficient in finance, so yes, it would help.
– Haseeb
Adam,
If you’ve finished an exam and do not pass, you will get a prompt for a re-take. We allow 1 re-take per user. Hope this helps!
Best,
Haseeb
Would the Premium Package benefit someone desiring to go into corporate finance, or is it mostly geared toward investment banking?
George,
The premium package would definitely help someone going into any field within corporate finance; either at a company or at an investment bank.
– Haseeb
Hi, Where can I have the re-take of the examination?
Sam,
After you take the exam and don’t pass, there is an automatic link available for a re-take. Let me know if you are having trouble with this – thanks.
Best,
Haseeb
Hi Haseeb,
I do not see the link available for a re-take. Is there any other alternative that I can re-take?
Samuel,
Please reach out to [email protected] regarding this matter – thanks.
– Haseeb
Hi Haseeb,
I have graduated from Masters in Economics in Canada and I went back to my country and it has been almost years since. But I want to find a job in Toronto. You can say I am not a recent grad. Do you think Wall Street Prep only caters to fresh graduates, MBA and students ? Would it be helpful in finding jobs in boutique IB banks, brokerage research companies, etc?
Zaki,
WSP is a great continuing education / re-tooling resource – the topics discussed here will definitely help in recruiting for boutique IB banks or sell-side research companies – thanks!
– Haseeb
Hi Haseeb,
Another question. Do you train on Interview Questions and Answers. If so , which program is that? I could not find it in any of the packages. Thanks.
Zaki,
We do have a private tutoring program – if you are interested please email [email protected] to find out about our private services – thanks!
Which courses are the most important to pass the Excel exam? Will the test cover all of the courses, or only a select few?
Patrick,
For the Excel exam specifically, I would make sure I go through the Excel Crash Course thoroughly. Hope this helps.
– Haseeb
Hi,
How many retakes can we take in total?
Gagan,
You have 2 attempts per exam – thanks.
That means 1exam and 2 additional attempts?
Gagan,
It means 1 exam and 1 additional attempt – thanks!
users may attempt to take it no more than 3 times within 24 months from the date of enrollment.
This is correct. But there is a one month grace period in-between attempts.
Best,
Jeff
Is training program is good or online program? Do both provide certificate
Gagan,
Passing the WSP certification exam will help you obtain the certificate. Going to the class will help you get an in-class experience of the content that you will be tested on in the Certification exam. It depends on how well you learn in a classroom, or on your own – hope this helps!
Would you recommend taking the online premium package course first and then also taking the boot camp in-person course for F & V modeling or is that essentially the same curriculum and redundant?
I think that’s a good approach – the live course gives you a flavor of some time pressure, and you benefit from the instructor’s perspectives on modeling/valuation. The premium package offers more courses than the live instruction, but it depends on how disciplined you are in watching online videos. 🙂
Does the Premium Package access expire? How long do I have before I must complete the exam?
Zaman,
If you purchase the Premium Package you will have lifetime access. Access to the Certification Exam will not expire. You can take the exam at any time.
James,
1) You will get access to our self study materials. Currently we do not have videos produced for this course.
2) As mentioned, this course is self-paced – you should assume about 2-3 days of time to devote to the course to fully complete it
3) Please email [email protected] to discuss any certification related to this course.
Thanks,
Haseeb
Hello,
What is the average number of hours in total needed to complete the Premium Package?
Pranav:
The premium package consists of 6 modules with around a total course material time of 45 hours, so I would assume a total time required of about 50-60 hours including the exercises and quizzes.
Best,
Jeff
I highly recommend WSP. I did their self study program and learned an incredible amount of information you would never see at the university level in such detail. It’s not a waste of time if you truly learn and figure out how to market the information. Basically, you have to make your intangible skills tangible. So prepare yourself for interviews by providing recruiters and hiring managers with examples of models you have built. Maybe even model the company you’re interviewing for. Read their 10k’s before hand so you can truly speak intelligently about their operations.
Hello! Can I download the videos once I pay for the premium package?
Yes,
There is a download icon above each video that you can use.
Best,
Jeff
I have 16 courses on my courses page, which ones are included in the certification exam? and can I know the weights for each course in the exam