Get Ready to Master Financial Modeling
Before diving into scenario modeling, let's ensure you have the right foundation and mindset for success in our comprehensive learning program.
Are You Ready to Begin?
Our scenario modeling program requires dedication and specific preparation. We've found that students who complete this readiness assessment perform significantly better throughout the course. Take a moment to evaluate where you stand.
- Basic Excel proficiency and comfort with formulas
- Understanding of fundamental financial concepts
- Commitment to 8-12 hours of study per week
- Access to reliable internet and current software
- Willingness to engage in practical exercises
Essential Skills Checklist
We've organized the prerequisite skills into clear categories. Don't worry if you're not strong in every area—we'll identify specific resources to help you catch up before our September 2025 program begins.
Technical Foundation
- Excel functions including VLOOKUP, INDEX, MATCH
- Creating and formatting tables and charts
- Understanding of cell references and naming ranges
- Basic knowledge of pivot tables
- Comfort with keyboard shortcuts for efficiency
Financial Concepts
- Time value of money principles
- Basic understanding of financial statements
- Familiarity with cash flow concepts
- Knowledge of key financial ratios
- Understanding risk and return relationships
Analytical Thinking
- Problem-solving approach to complex questions
- Attention to detail in numerical work
- Logical reasoning and pattern recognition
- Ability to break down complex problems
- Comfort with mathematical calculations
Your 90-Day Preparation Journey
Starting your preparation now puts you ahead of the curve. Here's how Delmont Carrera, our lead instructor, recommends approaching the next three months.
Foundation Building
Focus on strengthening your Excel skills and reviewing basic financial concepts. We recommend dedicating 2-3 hours weekly to practice exercises and online tutorials.
Weeks 1-4Skill Integration
Start combining technical skills with financial analysis. Work on simple modeling exercises and begin thinking about how different variables interact in business scenarios.
Weeks 5-8Mental Preparation
Develop the analytical mindset needed for complex scenario work. Practice breaking down business problems and thinking through multiple potential outcomes.
Weeks 9-12The students who succeed in scenario modeling aren't necessarily the ones with perfect technical skills from day one. They're the ones who approach preparation systematically and stay curious about how financial decisions ripple through business outcomes.
Lead Instructor for Advanced Scenario Modeling