Building Your Foundation First
Before diving into complex financial analysis, you need the right groundwork. We'll walk you through everything that matters — from basic concepts to the mindset that separates successful analysts from everyone else.
Explore Learning PathWhat Actually Matters
Financial statement analysis isn't just about crunching numbers. Most people jump straight to ratios and formulas without understanding what they're really looking at. That's like trying to read a book in a language you don't speak.
- Understanding the story behind the numbers
- Recognizing patterns that others miss
- Building confidence with real-world examples
- Connecting data to actual business decisions
We start with the fundamentals because they're what you'll rely on when things get complicated. And trust me, they always do.
No Advanced Degree Required
You don't need an MBA or years of accounting experience. What you do need is curiosity and the willingness to think critically about what financial statements actually tell us.
Some of our most successful students come from completely different backgrounds. They bring fresh perspectives that seasoned professionals sometimes miss.
Marcus Fielding
Senior Financial Analyst, 15+ years experience
Your Preparation Timeline
Getting ready doesn't happen overnight, but it doesn't have to take forever either. Here's what we recommend for our September 2025 program.
Start with the Basics
Familiarize yourself with basic financial statements. Don't worry about memorizing everything — focus on understanding what each section represents in real business terms.
2-3 weeksPractice Reading Annual Reports
Pick companies you know — maybe brands you buy from or businesses you're curious about. Read their annual reports, not to analyze them, but to get comfortable with the format and language.
3-4 weeksStrengthen Your Excel Skills
You don't need to be an Excel wizard, but basic formulas and chart creation will make your life much easier. Focus on SUM, AVERAGE, and basic graphing.
2 weeksJoin Our Pre-Program Workshop
We run a free workshop in August 2025 where you'll meet other participants and get a taste of our teaching approach. It's optional, but most students find it helpful.
1 dayReady to Get Started?
The best time to start preparing was yesterday. The second best time is right now. Our next comprehensive program begins in September 2025, with preparation materials available from June.