The SCR Course by GARP is a globally recognized certification for professionals looking to lead in climate and sustainability risk management. With rising ESG regulations, the demand for experts is growing. The SCR Exam covers practical topics like climate science, policy, and financial risk, and is open to all backgrounds with no prerequisites. Boost your preparation with quality SCR Coaching, SCR Notes, and SCR Lectures. Earning the SCR credential enhances career opportunities and connects you to GARP’s global network in sustainable finance.
Developed by top global risk professionals and climate experts, the GARP SCR Certificate equips you with essential knowledge in sustainability, climate risk, nature risk, and transition planning. The comprehensive SCR Course is designed to meet the rising demand for professionals who can support companies in strengthening their climate risk strategies. Whether you’re preparing for the SCR Exam or seeking guidance through SCR Coaching, SCR Notes, and SCR Lectures, this certification helps you stand out to hiring managers focused on ESG and climate risk management. Boost your career in sustainable finance with the globally recognized SCR Certificate today.
The Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR) Certificate from GARP (Global Association of Risk Professionals) is a globally recognized certification that helps professionals develop expertise in managing climate and sustainability-related financial risks. Here’s why you should consider it:
GARP is a globally respected risk management body, known for certifications like FRM.
The SCR certificate is recognized by top financial institutions, regulators, and businesses focusing on climate risk.
GARP is a globally respected risk management body, known for certifications like FRM.
The SCR certificate is recognized by top financial institutions, regulators, and businesses focusing on climate risk.
Climate Science & Policy – Understand key climate risk concepts.
Sustainability in Business – Learn how companies manage sustainability risks.
Financial & Risk Implications – Assess climate risks in financial decision-making.
Unlike FRM or CFA, you don’t need prior finance or risk experience—making it great for professionals from diverse backgrounds like finance, business, law, and sustainability.
Join GARP’s global network of risk professionals—connect with experts and explore career opportunities.
Stand out in job applications as companies prioritize climate risk experts.
The SCR Certificate Program and Exam covers the following topics
The SCR Certificate Program and Exam covers the following topics
To earn your Certificate, you’ll need to pass a multiple-choice Exam. Once you’re an SCR Certificate Holder, you are then strongly encouraged to participate in GARP’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program to help stay up-to-date with the latest best practices in risk management.
The SCR Exam is a 90-question multiple-choice Exam with two case studies designed to test your mastery of climate risk management. You have four hours to complete the SCR Exam, which is graded on a pass/fail basis.
The SCR Exam is offered in April and October at testing sites around the world. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To learn more about how to schedule an Exam, please visit our Exam Logistics page.
The cost of the SCR Program varies based on whether a candidate is registering during the early or standard registration window. Registration also includes six months of complimentary GARP Individual Membership for SCR candidates who have not previously received it from a different GARP program. For a specific pricing breakdown, visit our Fees and Payments page below.
SCR registration includes complimentary access to the official SCR eBook, our comprehensive digital GARP Learning platform, a full-length SCR Practice Exam, and more. To view all available resources, visit our Study Materials page.
While studying time varies per candidate, GARP recommends an estimated 100-150 hours of preparation time to be successful on the SCR Exam. GARP advises early registration to allow for a comfortable study pace.
Uncover the extensive benefits associated with pursuing the SCR Certificate.
Earn in-demand climate knowledge and skills for tackling today’s heightened physical and transition risks.
Learn about the latest pressing issues in climate risk, including nature risk assessment, transition planning, and carbon accounting and reporting.
Grab the attention of hiring managers seeking employees to immediately improve their company’s climate risk mitigation efforts.
Get a real-world look at climate change’s economic effect through timely case studies with Citi, L’Oreal, Kellogg, World Wildlife Fund, and other top organizations.
Early Registration
Opens May 1
Standard Registration
Opens August 1
Early Registration
Opens May 1
Standard Registration
Opens August 1
Early Registration
Opens May 1
Standard Registration
Opens August 1
The SCR Exam is scored on a pass/fail basis. Candidates who don’t pass their Exam can register at a reduced rate during the next two exam cycles.
Pass rates are subject to change based on the number of candidates. Since the start of the SCR, more than 16,000 candidates have sat for an Exam.
Everything you need to know about the SCR Exam
The SCR Exam comprises 90 multiple-choice questions, including case studies, that require both analytical thinking and practical application. Candidates are allotted four hours to complete their Exam.
The SCR Exam tests a broad range of topics, including climate change, sustainability, transition planning, and green finance to ensure a well-rounded mastery of the subject.
To help candidates prepare for their SCR Exam, GARP provides study materials, a full-length practice exam, and information on approved, third-party Exam preparation providers. Please visit our Study Materials page to learn more.
Approximately 100-150 hours of study is recommended to prepare for the Exam, with GARP providing extensive resources to support your journey including an official SCR Practice Exam.
After earning the Certificate, GARP encourages you to continue your climate risk journey with our Continuing Professional Development (CPD) program to further education and advancement in the field.
Candidates who do not pass the Exam, do not schedule the Exam, or schedule and do not sit can register for either of the next two available exam windows for a one-time reduced price of USD 350. Candidates who don’t register for either of these windows will need to pay all applicable fees.
If the curriculum changes before the candidate retakes the Exam, an updated version of the curriculum will be made available to the candidate free of charge (via eBook only).
Registered candidates can schedule their in-person computer-based test (CBT) Exam at a Pearson VUE test center most convenient to them. Candidates must schedule an Exam at least 48 hours prior to their desired Exam start time, and may only schedule their Exam for the exam window they’re registered for. Candidates who do not schedule their Exam by the deadline must re-register and pay the applicable fees.
For your exam registration to be considered complete, payment must be received by GARP by 11:59 pm EST on the closing date of each registration period.
Candidates can pay for their exam registration via:
• Credit Card: GARP accepts MasterCard, Visa, Amex, and Discover.
• ePay: GARP accepts Alipay.
• Wire: All wire payments will include a USD 50 processing fee added to your invoice. Please reference your GARP ID and Invoice Number when sending your payment. Full instructions can be found at the bottom of your invoice.
• ACH: All ACH payments will include a USD 50 processing fee added to your invoice. Please reference your GARP ID and Invoice Number when sending your payment. Full instructions can be found at the bottom of your invoice.
Note: All fees are subject to change.
Learn more about what to expect on Exam day, as well as what to do if you can’t make your Exam.
All deadlines are 11:59 pm Eastern Time.
To register successfully for the SCR Exam, candidates must:
Should a candidate decide not to schedule and take the Exam after completing the registration process and paying the registration fee, he/she will forfeit the registration fee unless a refund is requested within 48 hours.
As part of the registration process, candidates must agree to adhere to the Candidate Responsibility Statement and the GARP Code of Conduct.
Candidates have 48 hours after submitting their exam registration payment to request a refund. All refund requests must be received via email to [email protected].
SCR candidates may only defer an exam registration once to the next exam window.
A deferral to the next exam window must be submitted and paid by the below deferral deadlines:
There is an administrative processing fee of USD 150 to defer.
Candidates deferring into the next exam year will receive the new SCR eBook for free when it becomes available.
Registered candidates can schedule an in-person Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Exam at a Pearson VUE test center. Candidates must schedule their Exam at least 48 hours prior to their desired exam start time in either the April or October windows, based on the window they registered for. All Exams are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
Depending on availability, candidates may reschedule their Exam or change their exam site using the Pearson VUE scheduling website no later than 48 hours before the start of their scheduled Exam.
Candidates who fail to schedule their Exam and/or fail to appear at their exam appointment will forfeit their exam fee.
Candidates who don’t pass their Exam, register and don’t schedule their Exam, or schedule and don’t take their Exam can register to take their Exam for USD 350 once to the next two available exam administrations.
If the curriculum changes before the candidate’s new exam date, updated study materials will be provided in a digital format.
Candidates who arrive at the check in area after the start time specified on the Confirmation of Appointment email will not be allowed entry into the exam room and will be considered late. Candidates will not qualify for a refund or a deferral (paid or free) and will forfeit the exam fee(s).
To gain admission to the Exam, candidates must present a form of ID that meets ALL of the following requirements:
Below is a list of possible acceptable forms of identification:
The identification must be issued from the country in which you are testing. If you do not have an identification from the country in which you are testing, you must bring an international travel passport.
A digital ID of any kind will not be accepted.
The name associated with the registration must exactly match the name on the candidate’s identification on exam day. This includes an exact match of the first name, last name, and any middle name or initial.
There are NO exceptions to GARP’s Identification Policy. On exam day, a candidate who does not present an acceptable form of ID as listed above will not be allowed to sit for the Exam and will forfeit their exam fee.
PROHIBITED ITEMS ON EXAM DAY
Personal Items:
No personal items are allowed in the exam room or environment. This includes but is not limited to hand-held computers/personal digital assistants (PDAs), other electronic devices, pagers, watches, wallets, purses, firearms or other weapons, hats (and other nonreligious head coverings), bags, coats, jackets, eyeglass cases, pens, or pencils, food and drinks.
Personal accessories:
Candidates may not bring or wear barrettes or hair clips that are larger than 1/4 inch (1/2 centimeter) wide nor headbands or hairbands that are larger than 1/2 inch (1 centimeter) wide into the exam room. Jewelry that is removable and larger than 1/4 inch (1/2 centimeter) wide is not permitted in the exam room. Candidates may not bring any books and/or notes in the exam room unless authorized by GARP for use during the exam session.
Candidates must store all personal items, including mobile phones, in a secure area (a locker) as indicated by the proctor or return them to their vehicles. Refusing to store personal items will result in the candidate being unable to sit for the Exam, and the registration fee will be lost. All electronic devices must be turned off before storing them in a locker.
Once the candidate has entered the exam room, there must be no communication with other candidates. Any disruptive, threatening, or fraudulent behavior in the exam room may be grounds for terminating the Exam, invalidating exam results, or disqualifying the candidate from taking the Exam at a future date.
EXAM DAY SECURITY
Neither GARP, the exam site, exam personnel, nor vendors will assume responsibility or liability for any stolen, lost, or damaged private property left at the exam site.
To ensure the safety of candidates, proctors, and exam site staff, proctors and security personnel may inspect candidates' belongings for prohibited items before, during, or after the Exam on exam site premises.
CALCULATOR
For in-person CBT exams, candidates will be provided with a digital calculator on the screen (pictured below).
WHITEBOARD
Candidates will be provided with an erasable note board and pen to use. During the exam session, candidates may not use any other exam-specific materials or scratch paper.
Candidates may not leave the exam room without proctor approval. Candidates who need a restroom break should raise their hand and wait to be acknowledged by a proctor. No additional time will be given if a break is taken.
Candidates who finish the Exam early should raise their hand and wait to be acknowledged by a proctor. Candidates must then exit the building promptly and will not be allowed to return.
Any activity that compromises the integrity or validity of the Exam, including any activity or misconduct before, during, or after the administration of the Exam, is considered a violation of GARP's Exam Policies.
If a candidate's actions result in an Exam Policy violation, the candidate may be dismissed from the exam room and/or the exam session may be ended. A proctor will complete an Exam Policy Violation Report and send the report to GARP. GARP will conduct a thorough review of all violations.
It all happened because efforts and dedication of students
Deepak Goyal Sir's Best SCR lectures made even the most complex concepts easy to understand. His personalised mentorship helped me stay consistent. I cleared the exam in my first attempt while working full-time at SBI. The Best Mock Exams and Practice Sets at RBei Classes gave me the exact feel of the actual exam.
In today’s competitive job market, Financial Modelling for MBA students and Investment Banking for CA and Engineers have become essential skills. Employers no longer look only at degrees; they want professionals who can apply practical knowledge to solve real business problems. That’s why MBA students, Chartered Accountants, Engineers, and even commerce graduates are increasingly turning toward financial modelling and investment banking courses. These skills bridge the gap between classroom learning and corporate expectations, making students industry-ready while opening high-paying career opportunities. In this detailed guide, we will explore why MBA students learn financial modelling, why Investment Banking for CA and Engineers is a career-transforming skill, how financial modelling for commerce students creates new opportunities, and what placement benefits come with acquiring these practical skills. The Changing Landscape of Careers in Finance The financial services industry is not what it used to be. Earlier, an MBA or CA degree was considered sufficient to land a top job. However, as the industry becomes more complex with mergers, acquisitions, private equity, and global investments, recruiters now expect candidates to demonstrate practical financial modelling and investment banking skills from day one. For example, if you apply for a role in equity research, just knowing accounting standards is not enough. Recruiters will test whether you can build a DCF (Discounted Cash Flow) model, analyze company financials, and prepare an equity valuation report. Similarly, in investment banking roles, engineers and MBAs are often expected to prepare pitch books, merger models, and deal valuations before joining full-time. This is where financial modelling courses and investment banking training bridge the knowledge gap and make you ready for global opportunities. Why Financial Modelling for MBA Students is a Game Changer For MBA students, financial modelling is no longer optional; it is essential. Let’s break down why: Placement Advantage – Recruiters often look for MBA students who can go beyond theory and apply skills in valuation, forecasting, and investment analysis. A student who can present a financial model during an interview immediately stands out. Summer Internships & Projects – Many MBA programs include case competitions, consulting projects, and internships where practical modelling skills are required. Imagine being able to prepare a real merger model for your internship company—it sets you apart. Entrepreneurship & Startups – MBA students planning to launch their ventures need to prepare financial projections for investors. Without financial modelling skills, pitching for funding becomes nearly impossible. Global Relevance – Whether you aim for jobs in India, Singapore, Dubai, or New York, financial modelling is a universal language in finance. This is why top recruiters repeatedly say: “We hire MBA students who can apply skills, not just those who have degrees.” Why MBA Students Learn Financial Modelling Beyond Classrooms An MBA degree gives a strong theoretical foundation, but recruiters often complain about the gap between classroom teaching and industry requirements. This is where financial modelling steps in. Classroom Learning – You learn concepts like corporate finance, accounting, and valuation. Industry Expectation – You should be able to create an Excel model, forecast revenues, evaluate investments, and present them in a boardroom-style format. That’s why MBA students need to go beyond textbooks. For example: A classroom might teach you what EBITDA means, but financial modelling teaches you how to calculate, analyze, and forecast it for future years. You might learn about valuation theories in class, but recruiters want to see if you can actually value a startup using DCF or market comparable. Therefore, financial modelling for MBA students isn’t just about placements—it’s about bridging the academic-to-industry skill gap. Investment Banking for CA and Engineers: Bridging the Skill Gap Let’s talk about two categories of professionals who benefit immensely: CAs and Engineers. 1. Why Chartered Accountants Need Investment Banking Skills CAs already have strong accounting and auditing knowledge. However, investment banking demands additional expertise in valuation, deal structuring, and financial modelling. A CA may understand financial statements deeply but may not know how to build a merger model or analyze the impact of debt financing in an M&A transaction. With investment banking training, CAs can move into lucrative roles in corporate finance, private equity, venture capital, and equity research. 2. Why Engineers Need Investment Banking Skills Many engineers aim for finance roles after graduation or post-MBA. The challenge is that while they have analytical and quantitative skills, they lack exposure to finance-specific tools. With investment banking for engineers, they learn how to apply their quantitative mindset to financial modelling, risk analysis, and valuation techniques. Engineers with this training often transition smoothly into roles in quant finance, investment banking, and consulting. In short, financial modelling and investment banking provide CAs with upward mobility in finance, while helping engineers pivot into entirely new, high-paying domains. Financial Modelling for Commerce Students and Fresh Graduates What about students who are pursuing B.Com or BBA? Do they also need these skills? The answer is a strong yes. Commerce students often aim for careers in accounting, corporate finance, or banking. With financial modelling, they gain an edge over peers and can move into valuation, equity research, or investment banking right from the start. BBA graduates planning for MBA or CFA find financial modelling to be the foundation that helps them outperform others in exams and interviews. Even fresh graduates without work experience can use financial modelling to demonstrate practical readiness to employers. This is why financial modelling for commerce students is becoming a buzzword across universities and colleges. Here are the core practical skills you gain with financial modelling and investment banking training: Valuation Models – DCF, comparable company analysis, precedent transactions. Merger Models (M&A) – Evaluating synergies, accretion/dilution, deal financing. LBO Models – Private equity-style leveraged buyouts. Equity Research Models – Stock analysis, investment recommendations. Pitch Books – Professional presentations for clients. These are hands-on skills that recruiters expect but universities rarely teach in depth. This is why the phrase “practical skills beyond classroom” is so crucial for MBA, CA, engineers, and commerce students alike. Placement Benefits of Learning Financial Modelling and IB The
Introduction How to become an Investment Banker is one of the most common questions among finance aspirants in India. With growing demand for high-paying finance careers, Investment Banking for beginners has become an exciting career choice. However, starting a journey in this field requires the right qualifications, specific skills, and a clear career roadmap. In this step-by-step guide, we will cover qualifications for investment banking, the essential skills for investment banking, and whether you should pursue an MBA or CA for investment banking in India. By the end of this blog, you will have a complete roadmap of how to enter investment banking, what courses to pursue, and how to prepare for interviews. We will also guide you on practical skills like financial modelling that can set you apart from other candidates. What Does an Investment Banker Do? Before learning how to become an investment banker, it is important to understand what investment bankers actually do. Investment bankers act as financial advisors to companies, governments, and large institutions. Their core responsibilities include: Raising capital through debt or equity issuance. Advising on mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Structuring deals and managing IPOs. Conducting valuation and financial analysis. Helping clients maximize wealth while minimizing risks. To perform these tasks, they need strong analytical skills, financial modelling expertise, and business acumen. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Become an Investment Banker in India Step 1 – Build the Right Educational Foundation The first step in how to become an investment banker is having the right educational background. In India, most investment bankers come from commerce, economics, finance, or business administration backgrounds. Best Degrees for Investment Banking in India: Com (Hons) BBA in Finance BA Economics Chartered Accountant (CA) MBA in Finance CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Pro Tip: Many top investment banks prefer graduates from Tier-1 institutes like IIMs, ISB, and IITs, but a strong skillset can make you stand out even if you’re from a mid-tier college. Related read: Top 10 Skills Required to Master Financial Modelling Step 2 – Gain Practical Skills for Investment Banking Qualifications are important, but what differentiates a successful investment banker is practical financial skills. Essential Skills for Investment Banking: Financial Modelling (DCF, M&A, LBO models) Valuation Techniques (Comparable Company Analysis, Precedent Transactions, DCF) Excel Mastery (Advanced formulas, scenario analysis, automation) Presentation Skills (Pitch books, investor presentations, client decks) Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking Learning financial modelling is crucial. Without this, even the best degrees will not make you job-ready. Related read: Financial Modelling vs CFA: Which is Better for Your Career? Step 3 – Choose Between MBA or CA for Investment Banking A common doubt students have is whether to pursue MBA or CA for investment banking. Both paths are valuable, but they serve different purposes. MBA for Investment Banking Provides international exposure and networking. Focuses on management + finance skills. Preferred for global banks like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley. Costly but highly rewarding. CA for Investment Banking Provides strong accounting and taxation knowledge. Preferred for domestic banks, Big4 consulting, and boutique IB firms. Cost-effective compared to MBA. If you want global exposure, MBA is preferred. If you want strong technical expertise at a lower cost, CA is a good option. Step 4 – Build Relevant Work Experience Investment banking is not an entry-level friendly career. You need internships or prior work experience. Ways to Gain IB Experience in India: Internship with Big4 firms (EY, KPMG, Deloitte, PwC). Internship with boutique investment banks. Equity research roles at brokerage houses. Analyst roles in corporate finance teams. Pro tip: Even if you don’t land a direct IB internship, roles in equity research or corporate finance give you transferable skills. Step 5 – Build a Strong Resume and Network Your resume should showcase skills for investment banking like financial modelling, Excel, and valuation. Additionally, networking plays a huge role in securing interviews. Tips: Attend finance seminars, webinars, and alumni meets. Build LinkedIn connections with bankers. Join online finance communities. Step 6 – Crack the Interview for Investment Banking Roles Interviews for IB roles are rigorous. Expect both technical questions and behavioral questions. Technical Topics: DCF Valuation LBO Models Financial Ratios & Analysis M&A Case Studies Behavioral Questions: Why do you want to become an investment banker? Tell me about a deal you admire. How do you handle high-pressure situations? Qualifications Required for Investment Banking in India Undergraduate Degrees You can start with B.Com, BBA, or Economics. These give you basic financial knowledge. Postgraduate Qualifications MBA in Finance CFA Program Master’s in Finance / Economics Professional Certifications Chartered Accountant (CA) Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Financial Modelling & Valuation Courses Our Financial Modelling and Investment Banking Course is designed to provide these practical skills. Skills for Investment Banking – What You Must Master Core Technical Skills Financial Modelling Valuation Excel & PowerPoint Soft Skills Negotiation Communication Teamwork For a detailed guide, check Top 10 Skills Required to Master Financial Modelling Salary of Investment Bankers in India Analyst: ₹8–15 LPA Associate: ₹15–30 LPA VP: ₹35–60 LPA MD / Director: ₹1 Cr+ Factors affecting salary: College pedigree, work experience, networking, and technical skills. Challenges in Investment Banking Long working hours (80–100 hours/week). High-pressure environment. Constant client demands. Yet, the rewards—both financial and professional—make it worthwhile. Final Roadmap – How to Become an Investment Banker in India Complete graduation (B.Com, BBA, Economics, etc.). Pursue an MBA, CA, or CFA for specialization. Learn financial modelling & valuation skills. Gain internships and relevant work experience. Network aggressively. Crack IB interviews. Conclusion Becoming an investment banker in India is challenging but highly rewarding. The right mix of qualifications for investment banking, strong skills for investment banking, and smart career choices can help you break into this field. Whether you choose MBA for investment banking or CA vs MBA for IB, remember that practical skills like financial modelling make you stand out. If you are serious about building a career in investment banking, now is the time to start preparing. At RBei Classes, we specialize in Financial Modelling
Introduction When students think about high-paying careers in finance, two popular terms often come up: Investment Banking vs Financial Modelling. While both are interconnected, they are not the same. Many aspirants confuse them, assuming financial modelling is a career path, but in reality, it is a core skill used in investment banking and other finance jobs. In this blog, we will clearly explain Financial Modelling vs Investment Banking, compare job roles, career scope, and salary differences, and help you decide whether an Investment Banking Course vs Financial Modelling Course is better for your career. By the end, you will know exactly what suits your aspirations, and how RBei Classes can guide you in mastering both. Understanding Investment Banking vs Financial Modelling What is Investment Banking? Investment Banking is a career path where professionals help companies raise capital, advise on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), manage IPOs, and handle large-scale financial transactions. An investment banker acts as a bridge between companies and investors. Key responsibilities of investment bankers: Advising companies on raising capital (debt or equity). Structuring deals for mergers and acquisitions. Preparing pitch books and investor presentations. Conducting financial analysis for decision-making. Working on IPOs and large transactions. For a detailed beginner’s guide, check our blog: What is Investment Banking? Everything You Need to Know What is Financial Modelling? Financial Modelling, on the other hand, is not a career path but a practical skill. It involves building models in Excel to project a company’s financial performance, value businesses, and analyze investments. Key uses of financial modelling: Creating a company’s projected financial statements. Building DCF models, LBO models, and M&A models. Conducting valuation for equity research and investment banking. Supporting decision-making for investors and management. Related read: Financial Modelling vs CFA: Which is Better for Your Career? Investment Banking vs Financial Modelling – Key Differences Investment Banking is a Career, Financial Modelling is a Skill Investment Banking = Job Role (career path). Financial Modelling = Technical Skill used by investment bankers, equity analysts, corporate finance teams, and consultants. Scope and Career Path Investment Banking → Offers roles like Analyst, Associate, VP, Director, and Managing Director in top banks. Financial Modelling → Used in multiple careers: investment banking, private equity, venture capital, equity research, corporate finance, and consulting. Salary Comparison – Investment Banking vs Financial Modelling One of the most asked questions is about salary comparison. Investment Banking Careers: Role Salary Range (INR LPA) Analyst ₹8 – ₹15 LPA Associate ₹15 – ₹30 LPA VP ₹35 – ₹60 LPA Director/MD ₹100 LPA – ₹1 Cr+ Financial Modelling Careers (as supporting skill): Role Salary Range (INR LPA) Equity Research Analyst ₹6 – ₹12 LPA Corporate Finance Analyst ₹7 – ₹14 LPA Private Equity Associate ₹12 – ₹25 LPA Valuation Consultant ₹8 – ₹15 LPA Clearly, Investment Banking offers higher salaries due to the intensity of work, client exposure, and deal-making responsibilities. However, Financial Modelling is the entry gate that gives you the technical expertise needed to crack those jobs. Investment Banking Course vs Financial Modelling Course What You Learn in an Investment Banking Course Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) process. IPO process and fundraising. Deal structuring and advisory. Pitch book preparation. Soft skills: Negotiation, communication, client management. What You Learn in a Financial Modelling Course Excel mastery for finance. Building 3-statement models (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow). Valuation methods: DCF, Comparables, Precedent Transactions. M&A and LBO models. Data analysis for financial decision-making. In simple terms: Investment Banking Course = Big-picture + client-facing roles. Financial Modelling Course = Core technical foundation. Both are complementary. That’s why RBei Classes offers an integrated Financial Modelling and Investment Banking course—so students gain both technical skills and real-world deal understanding. Opportunities in Financial Modelling vs. Investment Banking Career Scope in Investment Banking Work at global banks like JP Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley. Work at Indian IB firms like Avendus Capital, ICICI Securities, Kotak IB. Roles: Analyst → Associate → VP → Director. Career Scope with Financial Modelling Equity Research. Corporate Finance (Big4 firms like EY, Deloitte, PwC, KPMG). Private Equity & Venture Capital. Valuation and Consulting. Financial Modelling gives you flexibility across multiple industries, while Investment Banking is a specialized path with very high rewards but demanding work hours. Salary Comparison – Which One Pays Better? Investment Banking Salaries are among the highest in the finance industry due to deal-making exposure and client interaction. Entry-level analysts start at ₹10–15 LPA and can reach ₹1 Cr+ at senior levels. Financial Modelling Salaries vary depending on the role. Equity research or valuation analysts earn ₹6–12 LPA initially. However, if combined with IB roles, salaries can match investment banking levels. Conclusion: If you want faster salary growth, investment banking is the way. But if you want stability + multiple career options, financial modelling is your safety net. Which is Better – Financial Modelling vs Investment Banking? It depends on your goals: Choose Investment Banking if you want client-facing roles, high salaries, and don’t mind long hours. Choose Financial Modelling if you want a versatile technical skillset that opens doors to multiple careers. Ideally, you should learn Financial Modelling first, then pursue Investment Banking, because financial modelling is the backbone of all IB work. Why RBei Classes is the Best Coaching Institute for Both At RBei Classes, we combine the best of both worlds: Job-oriented Financial Modelling Course to build strong technical skills. Practical Investment Banking Course to give students real-world exposure. Industry-focused training with live case studies, DCF models, M&A deal practice, and pitch book preparation. 1-on-1 mentorship to crack IB interviews and placements. That’s why students call RBei Classes the best coaching institute for Investment Banking and Financial Modelling courses in India. Final Take – Investment Banking vs Financial Modelling Investment Banking = Career path. Financial Modelling = Skill needed across finance roles. Investment Banking Salaries > Financial Modelling Salaries (but FM gives flexibility). Both are complementary, not competing. If you are a beginner, start with a Financial Modelling course to build your technical foundation. Then, move towards Investment Banking
When it comes to Excel for Financial Modelling, beginners often feel overwhelmed by the endless formulas, shortcuts, and functions available. Yet, mastering Excel for financial modelling is the most essential skill for any aspiring financial analyst, investment banker, or corporate finance professional. From valuation models to M&A deals, Excel forms the backbone of financial decision-making. The right Excel formulas for financial modelling and structured use of shortcuts can drastically improve efficiency, accuracy, and confidence while building models. In this blog, we will cover everything a beginner needs: the best Excel formulas for financial modelling, powerful Excel shortcuts for finance, practical modelling with Excel functions, common mistakes to avoid, and advanced tips used by real analysts. By the end, you’ll have a solid toolkit to make your models faster, cleaner, and more professional. At RBei Classes, we train students with real-world case studies and industry-level projects to ensure you not only learn Excel but also apply it in the context of financial modelling. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide. Why Excel is Essential for Financial Modelling Beginners Financial modelling involves forecasting, analyzing, and valuing companies using structured frameworks. While tools like Python, R, and Power BI are rising in popularity, Excel for financial modelling continues to dominate the finance world. Here’s why Excel is a must-learn: Universality – Every company uses Excel, making it a global financial language. Flexibility – Whether it’s building a discounted cash flow (DCF) model, M&A model, or leveraged buyout (LBO), Excel adapts to your needs. Speed – With the right Excel shortcuts for finance, you can build and audit models 2x faster. Transparency – Unlike black-box tools, Excel allows full visibility of every assumption and calculation. Before you aim to become an investment banker, equity analyst, or corporate finance professional, mastering Excel formulas for financial modelling is your first step. Also read: Top 10 Skills Required to Master Financial Modelling Best Excel Formulas for Financial Modelling Beginners Core Formulas Every Financial Analyst Must Know When you start with modelling using Excel functions, it’s important to focus on practical, finance-relevant formulas rather than learning everything. Below are the best Excel formulas for financial modelling every beginner should know: SUM / AVERAGE / COUNT Used for basic aggregations (revenues, expenses, headcount). Shortcut-friendly and widely used in every sheet. IF / Nested IF Helps build scenarios and conditions in models. Example: IF sales growth < 10%, reduce marketing spend by 5%. VLOOKUP / HLOOKUP / XLOOKUP Used to fetch specific data from large sheets. Essential when linking assumptions to calculations. INDEX + MATCH More flexible than VLOOKUP; can search across rows and columns. Common in advanced financial analyst Excel skills. PMT, IPMT, PPMT Critical for loan repayment and interest schedule modelling. NPV / IRR / XNPV / XIRR Used for valuation and investment decision-making. Example: Calculating NPV of a project cash flow. TEXT / DATE Functions (EOMONTH, YEAR, MONTH) Perfect for time-based forecasting in financial models. ROUND / ROUNDUP / ROUNDDOWN Avoids messy decimal outputs in reports. These are not just random functions. They are the backbone of valuation, M&A, and corporate finance models. Why Shortcuts Matter in Financial Modelling When you’re working on large valuation models, speed is everything. Professionals can’t afford to waste time clicking menus when a shortcut saves seconds on every step. Over a 200-sheet M&A model, those seconds add up to hours. Here are the most important Excel shortcuts for finance: CTRL + SHIFT + L → Apply filters instantly. ALT + E + S + V → Paste values only. CTRL + SHIFT + + / – → Insert or delete rows/columns. F4 → Repeat last action or lock references in formulas. CTRL + ARROW Keys → Jump to the end of data ranges. SHIFT + SPACE / CTRL + SPACE → Select entire row/column. CTRL + T → Convert data into a table (cleaner modelling). CTRL + ALT + F9 → Force full recalculation in large models. Memorizing these shortcuts can make you 2x faster, which is why every top analyst swears by them. Practical Tips for Modelling with Excel Functions Structuring Your Model Always separate assumptions, calculations, and outputs into different sheets. Use consistent color coding: Blue (inputs), Black (formulas), Green (links). Apply named ranges for key assumptions like growth, discount rate, etc. Building Scenarios Use IF formulas or scenario managers to test multiple cases: Base Case: Normal growth. Upside Case: Aggressive growth. Downside Case: Recession scenario. Linking Sheets Efficiently Always link assumptions instead of hardcoding numbers. Use INDEX-MATCH for dynamic referencing instead of static cell links. These habits make your model professional and audit-proof. Mistakes Beginners Make in Excel for Financial Modelling Even with the best formulas and shortcuts, beginners often make errors that cost them job interviews or credibility. Here are the most common mistakes: Hardcoding numbers into formulas Example: =100 instead of linking to assumptions. Overcomplicating formulas Long nested IFs make auditing impossible. Inconsistent formatting Different colors, no naming convention. Ignoring error checks Professional models always have error checks like balance sheet balancing. Not documenting assumptions Future analysts must know why a certain rate was chosen. At RBei Classes, we emphasize avoiding these mistakes by teaching structured modelling practices. Also read: Financial Modelling Case Studies: Real-World Examples You Must Learn Advanced Excel Tips for Aspiring Financial Analysts Once you’ve mastered the basics, step into advanced techniques to stand out: Dynamic Charts with Named Ranges – To present financial data clearly. Macros & VBA Basics – Automating repetitive tasks. Sensitivity Analysis with Data Tables – Testing how assumptions affect valuation. Power Query & Pivot Tables – Cleaning and analyzing large datasets. Error Traps (IFERROR) – Keeping outputs clean and presentation-ready. These advanced techniques give you a competitive edge in finance job interviews. How RBei Classes Helps You Master Excel for Financial Modelling At RBei Classes, we don’t just teach theory — we focus on practical exposure to Excel in real financial modelling projects. Our students build live case studies on valuation, M&A, and IPO modelling. Here’s why students
If you are curious about what is financial modelling and how a financial modelling course can shape your career, you are in the right place. In today’s corporate and finance-driven world, every decision – from investing in startups to acquiring billion-dollar companies – is backed by models that project numbers into the future. By learning how to build and analyze financial models, beginners and professionals alike can make smarter business and investment decisions. This blog will give you a complete beginner’s guide to financial modelling, explain its importance, outline the types of financial models, and even connect how these models are used in business valuation, DCF analysis, and M&A models. Whether you want to learn financial modelling online or through a structured classroom program, this guide will prepare you for your journey. Introduction to Financial Modelling Before diving deep, let us clearly define financial modelling. In simple terms, financial modelling is the process of creating a mathematical representation of a real-world financial situation. It is usually done in Excel or advanced tools, where inputs like revenue, costs, investments, and financing are linked together to project financial performance. Think of a financial model as a decision-making tool if you change one variable, you can immediately see how it affects profits, cash flows, or valuations. That’s why investment bankers, equity analysts, corporate finance professionals, and even entrepreneurs rely heavily on it. Transitioning from theory to practice, the models you build are not just numbers. They are stories about businesses, expressed in financial terms. Why is Financial Modelling Important? The importance of financial modelling cannot be overstated. Companies and investors depend on it for Business Valuation Determining the worth of a company through models like DCF (Discounted Cash Flow). Investment Decisions Evaluating whether to invest in stocks, bonds, or startups. Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A Models) Analyzing whether acquiring another company will be profitable. Budgeting & Forecasting Helping management plan ahead. Risk Management Testing scenarios such as downturns or interest rate hikes. For beginners, this highlights why learning financial modelling online or through a structured program is not just about Excel skills but about understanding how businesses work. Types of Financial Models There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on the situation, professionals use different models. Some common types of financial models include 1. Three-Statement Model This is the foundation of financial modelling. It connects the Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement into one dynamic model. 2. Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Model DCF is one of the most powerful valuation tools. By projecting free cash flows and discounting them back at a cost of capital, you estimate the company’s intrinsic value. 3. Merger & Acquisition (M&A) Model This model evaluates whether acquiring a target company will create or destroy shareholder value. 4. Leveraged Buyout (LBO) Model Used by private equity firms, it assesses if a company can be bought with mostly debt and sold later for profit. 5. IPO Model When companies go public, analysts prepare IPO models to forecast valuations and issue prices. 6. Budgeting and Forecasting Models Companies rely on these to track expenses and revenues against plans. Transition words like firstly, secondly, moreover, and finally are often used here because each model builds upon the other in practice. Skills Required for Financial Modelling To master financial modelling, you need both technical and analytical skills. While this blog focuses on the beginner’s guide, you can check our detailed write-up on Skills Required for Financial Modelling. Some must-have skills include: Excel Proficiency Accounting and Finance Knowledge Analytical Thinking Attention to Detail Understanding Valuation Techniques Financial Modelling for Beginners – Step by Step Here’s a roadmap if you are just starting Learn Accounting Basics – Understand how financial statements connect. Master Excel Shortcuts – Speed is critical for modelling. Understand Valuation Techniques – DCF, comparables, precedent transactions. Build a Simple Three-Statement Model – Link statements correctly. Move to Complex Models – Such as M&A or LBO. Practice Case Studies – Use real companies to test your skills. Get Feedback and Refine – Join communities or take professional training. Common Mistakes Beginners Make Even though financial modelling is powerful, beginners often make mistakes such as Overcomplicating models with unnecessary details. Ignoring accounting integrity (statements not balancing). Not testing scenarios. Relying only on templates without understanding logic. By avoiding these, you will become more confident Applications of Financial Modelling in the Real World Let’s make this practical. Financial modelling is not limited to investment banks. It is widely used across industries Startups To raise funding from investors. Corporates For budgeting and capital allocation. Banks To assess loan viability. Investors For portfolio analysis. Governments For infrastructure projects. How to Learn Financial Modelling Online? The most convenient way today is through financial modelling courses online. At RBei Classes, we have designed a job-oriented financial modelling and investment banking course where students learn step by step, from basics to advanced case studies. You can start learning at your own pace, build live models, and get guidance from mentors who have worked in investment banking. If you’re curious, check out our Financial Modelling Course Page → https://rbeiset.com/financial-modelling. Financial Modelling vs Investment Banking Many students confuse the two. Financial modelling is a skill, while investment banking is a career field where financial models are applied daily. If you want to see how financial modelling connects to the world of banking, you should read our What is Investment Banking?. Future of Financial Modelling With AI and automation, the tools might change, but the fundamentals of modelling will remain the same. Financial decisions will always require human judgment supported by robust models. That is why building this skill today ensures long-term career growth. Conclusion To summarize, financial modelling is the art and science of representing a company’s future in numbers. By learning it, you not only improve your career prospects but also gain a skill that is highly valued across industries. Whether you are a student, a working professional, or an entrepreneur, the right financial modelling course can make you job-ready
Financial Modelling has become one of the most in-demand skills in finance, investment banking, equity research, and corporate strategy. To succeed, you need to develop the skills required for financial modelling that go beyond just Excel formulas. In fact, mastering financial modelling skills means combining technical expertise, accounting knowledge, valuation techniques, and the ability to present complex data in a simplified manner. Without these skills, your model may look correct on the surface but fail to provide accurate insights for decision-making. In this blog, we will dive deep into the top 10 skills required for financial modelling. By the end, you will know exactly what to learn, how to build these skills, and why they matter in real-world finance roles. If you’re a beginner, you should first read our What is Financial Modelling? Beginner’s Guide to understand the basics before jumping into advanced skills. Why Learning Financial Modelling Skills is Essential Before we explore the top skills, it’s important to understand why financial modelling skills are critical in today’s world. Businesses are constantly making decisions about investments, mergers, acquisitions, new projects, and risk management. Each decision requires a forecast, an evaluation, and a clear financial projection. That’s where financial modelling comes in. A banker uses models to advise on IPO pricing. A CFO uses models to assess capital structure and funding. An equity analyst uses models to recommend buy, hold, or sell decisions. A consultant uses models to suggest strategic shifts to clients. Therefore, learning these skills required for financial modelling is not just for students or freshers; they are equally important for professionals already working in finance. Top 10 Skills Required for Financial Modelling Let’s now break down the essential financial modelling skills one by one, with practical examples and applications. 1. Excel Skills for Financial Modelling When people think of financial modelling, Excel for financial modelling is the first thing that comes to mind. Excel is the backbone of every model. While basic formulas like SUM or AVERAGE are helpful, advanced Excel skills take you to the next level. What You Need to Learn: Keyboard shortcuts for speed. Functions like VLOOKUP, INDEX-MATCH, IFERROR. Logical formulas for scenario building. Data validation and conditional formatting. Pivot tables for dynamic analysis. Example: If you are projecting revenue growth for 5 years, Excel helps you create scenarios like best case, base case, and worst case, all within a single model. Without Excel for financial modelling, you cannot build error-free, flexible, and professional models. 2. Strong Accounting Knowledge Accounting is the language of business. If you don’t understand accounting principles, your financial model will lack credibility. In fact, one of the most important skills required for financial modelling is knowing how financial statements interact. What You Need to Learn: Structure of Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement. Double-entry principles. Deferred taxes, depreciation methods, and working capital. Linking all three statements into one integrated model. Example: If you increase capital expenditure in your model, you must know how it impacts depreciation (income statement), fixed assets (balance sheet), and cash outflows (cash flow statement). 3. Valuation Skills A big part of financial modelling is estimating what a company is worth. Valuation skills help you apply different methods depending on the industry and purpose. What You Need to Learn: Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Valuation. Comparable Company Analysis. Precedent Transaction Analysis. Leveraged Buyout (LBO) models. Example: In M&A deals, a banker may build a DCF model to estimate the intrinsic value of the company, and then compare it with market multiples. This makes valuation skills one of the most critical aspects of financial modelling. 4. Problem-Solving in Finance Financial modelling is not just about numbers; it’s about solving real-world business problems. Employers look for candidates who can analyze a situation, build assumptions, and use financial models to provide solutions. What You Need to Develop: Ability to question assumptions. Critical thinking for scenario analysis. Creativity in structuring data. Example: A company facing declining margins may want to know whether to cut costs, raise prices, or diversify. Your model should help solve this by quantifying the impact of each choice. 5. Attention to Detail A small mistake in financial modelling can cost millions. That’s why attention to detail is a must-have skill. Models often involve hundreds of rows, multiple sheets, and linked formulas. A single error can spread throughout. Example: Accidentally linking revenue growth to the wrong cell can misrepresent the entire company valuation. To avoid this, always cross-check formulas, reconcile balances, and use error checks. 6. Scenario and Sensitivity Analysis Markets are uncertain. That’s why financial models must account for different situations. Scenario analysis and sensitivity analysis allow you to test assumptions and see how results change. What You Need to Learn: Data Tables for sensitivity analysis. Building “Best Case, Base Case, Worst Case” scenarios. Tornado diagrams for visualization. Example: A DCF valuation can show a company worth ₹500 crores at 10% WACC, but if the WACC changes to 12%, the value may fall sharply. Sensitivity analysis highlights this risk. 7. Presentation Skills A great financial model is useless if you cannot explain it. Presentation skills ensure you can communicate your findings to non-finance people. What You Need to Learn: Designing clear charts and graphs. Using PowerPoint for financial storytelling. Writing concise executive summaries. Example: A CEO may not look at your entire Excel sheet. But a one-slide summary with key insights and recommendations can drive decisions. 8. Business and Industry Knowledge Numbers don’t exist in isolation. You must understand the industry before making assumptions. Strong business acumen is one of the hidden but powerful skills required for financial modelling. What You Need to Focus On: Industry-specific drivers (e.g., same-store sales for retail, occupancy rates for hotels). Economic factors like inflation, interest rates, and currency risks. Company strategies and market competition. Example: A retail model should not assume the same growth rate as a tech startup. Context matters. 9. Communication and Storytelling Models are technical, but finance is about people. You must communicate assumptions, risks,
When students step into the world of finance, one question often dominates their mind: Financial Modelling vs CFA, which is better for my career? Both Financial Modelling and CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) are highly respected pathways, but they serve different purposes. If you want to understand which option fits your goals, you must compare CFA vs Financial Modelling not just in terms of course structure, but also in terms of career opportunities, industry relevance, and long-term growth. At RBei Classes, widely recognized as the best coaching classes for Financial Modelling and Investment Banking courses, we guide students through this exact confusion every single day. In this blog, we will break down the differences between CFA and Financial Modelling, explain their scope, highlight their relevance in India and abroad, and help you decide the right career path. Understanding Financial Modelling vs CFA Before comparing CFA vs Financial Modelling, you must understand what each path actually means. CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst): This is a globally recognized professional qualification focused on investment management, equity research, portfolio management, and corporate finance. The CFA course is theory-driven, rigorous, and requires students to clear three levels. It is ideal for those aiming to build a career in asset management, equity research, or corporate finance. Financial Modelling: This is a practical skill that involves building models in Excel (or other tools) to evaluate businesses, forecast financial performance, analyze investments, and make corporate finance decisions. Financial Modelling is not a degree or certification by itself; instead, it is a job-ready skill that is highly valued in investment banking, private equity, consulting, and corporate finance. Thus, Financial Modelling vs CFA is essentially a comparison of practical skills vs professional qualification. Both have strong advantages, but their career impact depends on your goals. Scope of Financial Modelling in India When considering CFA vs Financial Modelling, you must also look at industry demand. In India, the scope of Financial Modelling has expanded rapidly because companies are relying on data-driven decision-making. Financial Modelling is no longer limited to investment bankers; it is now widely used in: Equity Research: Analysts create valuation models for listed companies. Corporate Finance Teams: Professionals prepare budgeting and forecasting models. Startups & Venture Capital: Entrepreneurs and investors rely on models to evaluate funding rounds. Consulting & Strategy Firms: Models are used to assess M&A and restructuring. The benefit of Financial Modelling is that it offers immediate job readiness. Unlike CFA, which takes years to complete, Financial Modelling can be mastered in a few months, especially with guidance from expert-led platforms like RBei Classes. Career in CFA – A Global Qualification On the other hand, if you pursue a career in CFA, you are choosing a globally respected designation. CFA is highly valued in: Asset Management Firms: To manage investment portfolios. Hedge Funds and Private Equity: To perform deep valuation analysis. Equity Research Houses: To publish industry and company-specific research reports. Corporate Finance Roles: Especially in multinational companies with global operations. However, CFA is not an easy journey. It requires 3-4 years of dedication, clearing three levels, and gaining relevant work experience. That said, once you become a CFA charterholder, it opens doors to international opportunities, something Financial Modelling alone may not achieve. CFA vs Financial Modelling – Which One Should You Choose? The big question: Financial Modelling vs CFA – which is better? The answer lies in your career stage and professional goals. If you are a fresher or college student: Start with Financial Modelling to gain practical, job-ready skills. This will help you secure internships and entry-level roles in finance. Later, you can pursue CFA for deeper theoretical knowledge. If you are a working professional in finance: Adding Financial Modelling to your skill set will make you efficient in real-world projects. If you aspire for leadership or global recognition, combine it with CFA. If you want international mobility: CFA is the right choice since it is globally accepted. Financial Modelling complements it, but CFA is the recognized qualification worldwide. If you are aiming for Investment Banking: Both are useful, but recruiters expect Financial Modelling skills first. Once you establish yourself, CFA can add credibility. (You can also read our detailed blog on How to Become an Investment Banker for a clear roadmap.) In short, it is not about Financial Modelling vs CFA as rivals, but about understanding how they complement each other. CFA Course vs Practical Skills – The Real Difference A key aspect of CFA vs Financial Modelling is the nature of learning: CFA is a structured, exam-driven course. It builds strong conceptual understanding of finance, ethics, and investment principles. Financial Modelling is a hands-on skill. You learn by building valuation models, running sensitivity analysis, and projecting cash flows. Many students at RBei Classes start with Financial Modelling and later pursue CFA. This combination works best because you gain practical job skills first and then add the prestige of a CFA qualification. Salary Comparison – CFA vs Financial Modelling Another factor in choosing Financial Modelling vs CFA is salary potential. Financial Modelling: Freshers can expect ₹6–10 LPA in investment banking or equity research roles. With experience, this can go up to ₹25–30 LPA in India. CFA: After clearing Level 3 and gaining experience, professionals can earn anywhere between ₹12–40 LPA in India, with even higher potential abroad. This shows that both CFA and Financial Modelling have strong earning potential, but CFA has the edge in international markets. Combining Financial Modelling and CFA for Maximum Impact Rather than choosing CFA vs Financial Modelling as a strict either-or, many successful professionals combine both. The CFA qualification gives credibility, while Financial Modelling provides job readiness. Together, they make you highly competitive in finance careers. For instance, an equity research analyst who knows Financial Modelling can prepare detailed valuation models, while CFA knowledge allows them to interpret market trends and apply ethical principles. This dual strength makes you stand out in the industry. Why Choose RBei Classes for Financial Modelling and Investment Banking? If you are confused about Financial
Investment Banking is one of the most prestigious and rewarding career paths in finance. If you are exploring a career in investment banking, then understanding what this field is, what roles investment bankers play, and how you can break into it is essential. Today, many students and professionals want to pursue an Investment Banking Course because it not only opens doors to high-paying opportunities but also helps them develop skills in valuation, mergers and acquisitions, equity research, and financial modelling. At RBei Classes, we provide the best coaching classes for financial modelling and investment banking course, guiding students step by step to achieve their career goals. In this blog, you will get a complete beginner-to-advanced guide on investment banking—from its meaning, role, services, and career scope, to how you can prepare and land your dream job in investment banking in India. By the end, you will have everything you need in one place to start your journey confidently. What is Investment Banking? At its core, investment banking is the division of banking that helps large corporations, governments, and institutions raise capital, execute mergers and acquisitions (M&A), manage risks, and provide advisory services. Unlike commercial banks, which deal with savings accounts and loans for individuals, investment banks focus on big-ticket financial transactions. Investment banks act as intermediaries between companies that need funds and investors who want to deploy capital. This requires deep expertise in equity research, valuation, and financial modelling, which is why pursuing an investment banking course is often the first step for aspiring professionals. Some of the most well-known global investment banks include Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan, Barclays, and Credit Suisse. In India, firms like Kotak Investment Banking, ICICI Securities, and Axis Capital play a crucial role in shaping the corporate finance landscape. Why Choose a Career in Investment Banking? A career in investment banking is considered one of the most lucrative in the finance world. But beyond the attractive paychecks, this career offers: Exposure to Global Deals: Investment bankers work on billion-dollar mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs. Skill Development: The role demands expertise in valuation, financial modelling, and risk assessment. Networking Opportunities: You work closely with top executives, investors, and policymakers. Fast Growth: Clear progression from Analyst → Associate → Vice President → Director → Managing Director. However, breaking into this field is challenging because it demands not just technical skills but also strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical abilities. That’s where a structured investment banking course from trusted institutions like RBei Classes comes in, bridging the gap between academics and industry practice. Role of an Investment Banker The role of an investment banker varies depending on the division they work in. Broadly, their responsibilities include: Capital Raising – Helping companies issue stocks and bonds to raise money. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) – Advising clients on buying, selling, or merging businesses. Equity Research – Providing insights on market trends, stock valuations, and investment strategies. Restructuring – Assisting distressed companies in reorganizing their finances. Advisory Services – Guiding firms on strategic financial decisions. Each function requires in-depth knowledge of financial models, market dynamics, and negotiation skills. This is why practical learning is crucial, and why our financial modelling and investment banking course focuses on hands-on training. Front Office, Middle Office, and Back Office in Investment Banking An investment bank is divided into three major parts: Front Office – The client-facing division that handles M&A, capital raising, trading, and equity research. This is where most investment bankers work. Middle Office – Risk management, compliance, and technology support ensuring transactions comply with regulations. Back Office – Operations, settlements, and administrative functions. Aspirants targeting a career in investment banking usually aim for front-office roles because they directly impact revenue and involve high-level client interaction. Types of Services Offered by Investment Banks Investment banks offer a wide range of services: Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Advisory Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) Debt and Equity Financing Private Equity & Venture Capital Deals Equity Research and Analysis Restructuring and Risk Management These services form the backbone of corporate finance and global capital markets, making investment banking a critical driver of the economy. Jobs in Investment Banking in India If you are planning for a job in investment banking in India, you will find immense opportunities in top financial hubs like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi. With India’s growing economy, demand for skilled investment bankers has increased across domestic and international firms. Some common job roles include: Analyst (entry-level, focused on financial modelling and research) Associate (client-facing, project execution) Vice President (managing teams, client relationships) Director / MD (deal origination, strategy, and leadership) Salaries in India range from ₹10–20 LPA for freshers to ₹50 LPA+ for experienced professionals in top banks. How to Build a Career in Investment Banking? To build a successful career in investment banking, you need: Educational Background – Degrees in finance, economics, accounting, or engineering. Specialized Training – A structured investment banking course covering financial modelling, valuation, and M&A. Practical Skills – Hands-on exposure to Excel, pitch books, and case studies. Internships – Real-world experience in banks or financial firms. Certifications – CFA, FRM, or RBei’s Financial Modelling and Investment Banking course for added credibility. Why RBei Classes is the Best Coaching Institute for Investment Banking and Financial Modelling At RBei Classes, we believe in practical learning over theory. Our students work on live projects, case studies, and financial models that simulate real-world investment banking tasks. This is why RBei is recognized as the best coaching classes for financial modelling and investment banking course. Expert Faculty: Trainers with global investment banking experience. Structured Curriculum: Covers valuation, M&A, DCF, LBO, and equity research. Placement Support: Guidance for internships and job interviews. Flexible Learning: Online and classroom formats available. Whether you are a fresher or a working professional, our program ensures you are industry-ready. Skills You Learn in an Investment Banking Course An investment banking course equips you with: Advanced Excel & Financial Modelling Company Valuation (DCF, Comparable, Precedent Transactions) M&A Deal Structuring IPO Process &
Financial Modelling Case Studies are one of the most powerful ways to master Practical Financial Modelling. At RBei Classes, known as the best coaching classes for Financial Modelling and Investment Banking course, we believe that theory alone is never enough. Instead, students must dive deep into real-world financial modelling, learn how businesses are valued, and understand how industry professionals apply models such as M&A Models, DCF Models, and Equity Valuation Models in actual scenarios. This blog will walk you through detailed financial modelling case studies, ensuring you not only learn concepts but also apply them practically in your career. Whether you are preparing for investment banking, equity research, or corporate finance, mastering these practical case studies is a must. Moreover, by the end of this blog, you will clearly understand how to approach real-world financial modelling and why RBei Classes has been trusted by thousands of learners globally. Why Financial Modelling Case Studies Are Essential Transitioning from classroom learning to real-world application often feels overwhelming. Many students learn formulas and Excel shortcuts, yet struggle to apply them in live corporate finance situations. That’s where financial modelling case studies bridge the gap. Case studies replicate real-life corporate transactions, valuation methods, and financial decisions. With them, you: Understand how companies are valued. Learn to build M&A deal structures. Gain insights into forecasting revenues, costs, and profitability. Apply DCF Models and Equity Valuation Models in real market scenarios. Develop confidence in interpreting and presenting financial results. In short, practical financial modelling case studies transform you from a learner into a professional who can handle the demands of investment banking and corporate finance. Core Types of Financial Modelling Case Studies To grasp practical financial modelling, you must be familiar with the main types of models that professionals use. Below are the most impactful models you’ll encounter: 1. Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Model Case Study The DCF Model is the backbone of valuation. It helps analysts estimate the intrinsic value of a company by projecting free cash flows and discounting them to the present value. Case Example: Imagine valuing Infosys Ltd. Using financial statements, you forecast revenues for the next 5 years, calculate free cash flows, and discount them using the company’s weighted average cost of capital (WACC). By comparing intrinsic value with market price, you decide whether the stock is undervalued or overvalued. At RBei Classes, we make students solve such DCF case studies step by step, teaching them how to source assumptions, justify projections, and stress-test results. 2. Merger & Acquisition (M&A) Model Case Study M&A Models are used to evaluate whether combining two companies creates shareholder value. Case Example: Consider HDFC Bank’s merger with HDFC Ltd. The model forecasts combined revenues, synergies, integration costs, and accretion/dilution impact on EPS. Analysts compare standalone vs. merged performance to determine if the merger benefits shareholders. In class, we guide students on: Building pro-forma financial statements. Identifying cost and revenue synergies. Calculating goodwill and purchase price allocation. Assessing whether the deal is accretive or dilutive. This kind of M&A financial modelling case study gives students real investment banking exposure before entering the job market. 3. Equity Valuation Model Case Study Equity Valuation is at the core of investment banking and equity research. Professionals use multiples such as P/E, EV/EBITDA, and P/B ratios to compare companies. Case Example: Suppose you are tasked with valuing Zomato Ltd. You benchmark it against global food delivery companies like DoorDash. Using multiples such as EV/Sales, you estimate Zomato’s fair market value. Students at RBei Classes not only build the Equity Valuation Model but also prepare investment pitch presentations, mirroring what analysts do in global IB firms. Real-World Financial Modelling Case Studies You Must Learn Let’s now go deeper with industry-specific examples. Each case study highlights how financial modelling is applied practically. Case Study 1: Valuing a Tech Company Using a DCF Model Industry: IT Services Company: Infosys Ltd. Objective: Identify if Infosys stock is undervalued. Steps Taken: Collected 5 years of financial statements. Projected revenues based on IT industry growth and Infosys’ historical performance. Estimated operating margins and calculated free cash flows. Applied a discount rate of 10% (based on WACC). Compared intrinsic value to market capitalization. Insight: The DCF Model indicated Infosys was trading close to its fair value, reinforcing the reliability of DCF in equity research. Case Study 2: M&A Deal Between HDFC Bank and HDFC Ltd. Industry: Banking & Financial Services Objective: Evaluate post-merger synergies. Steps Taken: Built standalone financials for both entities. Estimated cost savings (branch overlap reduction, IT integration). Forecasted increased lending opportunities due to housing finance portfolio. Measured EPS accretion/dilution. Evaluated goodwill created post-merger. Insight: The merger created strong strategic value, showing how M&A models are critical in real decision-making. Case Study 3: Startup Valuation – Zomato IPO Industry: Food Delivery Objective: Assess Zomato’s valuation before IPO. Steps Taken: Compared Zomato’s EV/Sales multiple to global peers. Adjusted valuation to India’s market dynamics. Projected future revenue growth with rising internet penetration. Conducted sensitivity analysis on profitability timelines. Insight: Investors realized Zomato was a growth play rather than a profitability play. This kind of case study trains students to handle startup valuations with confidence. Case Study 4: Oil & Gas Company Financial Model Industry: Energy Company: ONGC Objective: Forecast production and profitability under fluctuating crude prices. Steps Taken: Projected revenue based on production volume and crude oil prices. Incorporated cost structures and exploration expenses. Modeled scenarios with different oil price levels. Conducted sensitivity and scenario analysis. Insight: Demonstrated how financial modelling adapts to cyclical industries and why analysts must stress-test assumptions. Case Study 5: Private Equity LBO Model Industry: Retail Objective: Evaluate buyout of a retail chain using debt financing. Steps Taken: Structured acquisition financing with equity and debt mix. Forecasted cash flows to test debt repayment ability. Estimated exit multiple for 5 years. Calculated IRR and NPV. Insight: LBO Models train students to think like private equity investors, focusing on cash flow sufficiency and leverage risks. Lessons Learned from Financial Modelling Case Studies Each case
When I first decided to give my FRM Part 1 August 2025 attempt, I knew I had very little time. With a full-time job at SBI Bank in Kolkata, balancing office responsibilities and preparation for one of the toughest finance exams in the world felt nearly impossible. However, with the right strategy, the right guidance, and the Best FRM Coaching for working professionals – RBei Classes, I managed to not only clear the exam but also secure top quartiles in all four subjects. In this blog, I want to share my complete journey – why I chose the FRM exam, how I managed preparation with just 60 days of focused study, and why joining RBei Classes under the mentorship of Deepak Goyal Sir became the turning point of my success. Why I Decided to Pursue FRM Working at SBI Bank in Kolkata gave me a solid foundation in banking, but I realized early on that to grow in my career, I needed an international certification. I explored options like CFA and MBA, but eventually, I chose FRM (Financial Risk Manager) because of its strong relevance in risk management, credit analysis, treasury, and investment banking roles. The FRM designation is globally recognized and is considered the gold standard in risk management. Since my long-term goal is to move into risk and treasury operations, FRM was the most logical choice. Moreover, I knew that completing FRM could help me not just in India but also open doors in global financial institutions. However, I had one major concern – time. Balancing work at a bank and preparing for FRM felt like a mountain to climb. That’s when I started researching the Best FRM Coaching for working professionals, and my search led me to RBei Classes. The Challenge of Preparing with a Full-Time Job Working at SBI Bank in Kolkata means long hours, customer responsibilities, and operational pressure. By the time I returned home, I was often exhausted. Like many working professionals, I doubted whether I could give enough time to prepare. Most of my colleagues told me that clearing FRM Part 1 in just 60 days is impossible, especially with a full-time job. However, I had two strong motivators: I wanted to clear FRM Part 1 in August 2025 so that I could attempt FRM Part 2 in November 2025. This would save me almost a year. I didn’t want to lose momentum – the longer I delayed, the harder it would become to manage studies with work. So, despite the odds, I decided to go all in with a 60-day strategy. But I knew I couldn’t do it alone. That’s why I chose to join RBei Classes on 25th May 2025, exactly 60 days before my exam. Why I Chose RBei Classes I had heard about many coaching institutes for FRM, but what made me choose RBei Classes was the personal mentorship of Deepak Goyal Sir. Unlike other institutes that just provide recorded lectures, RBei offers: Structured lectures that cover concepts from very basic to advanced level. Easy-to-understand teaching style that is perfect for working professionals like me. Best preparation material – crisp notes, formula sheets, and practice questions. Regular guidance and mentorship – Deepak Sir was personally available to solve doubts. When I spoke to a few ex-students of RBei Classes, almost everyone said the same thing – “If you’re working and want to clear FRM, RBei is the best choice.” That convinced me. On 25th May 2025, I enrolled, and that was the turning point of my FRM journey. My 60-Day FRM Part 1 Preparation Strategy Daily Study Routine Since I had only 60 days, I needed to be extremely disciplined. My routine looked like this: Morning (6 AM – 8 AM): 2 hours of study before going to the bank. Evening (8 PM – 12 AM): 4 hours after work. Total = 5–6 hours per day. On weekends, I extended it to 8–10 hours. Subject-Wise Approach FRM Part 1 has four subjects: Foundations of Risk Management Quantitative Analysis Financial Markets and Products Valuation and Risk Models Here’s how I managed them: I started with Quantitative Analysis, as it forms the base for other subjects. RBei Classes made even the toughest topics like regression, probability, and distributions simple. Then I moved to Financial Markets and Products, where Deepak Sir’s examples connected theory with real-life banking scenarios. Next came Valuation and Risk Models, which is often considered the toughest. With the practice sets from RBei, I gained confidence. Finally, I did Foundations of Risk Management, which tied everything together. Practice & Mock Tests RBei Classes provided high-quality mock tests that were almost exam-like. I attempted them regularly in July. These mocks helped me with time management and also showed me where I needed improvement. How RBei Classes Helped Me I cannot emphasize this enough – without RBei Classes, clearing FRM Part 1 in 60 days with a full-time job would have been impossible. Here’s why: Lectures were very clear – every concept was explained from scratch, with practical examples. Preparation material was the best – concise, exam-focused, and easy to revise. Mentorship of Deepak Goyal Sir – the best part! He personally guided me whenever I was stuck. Even late at night, I could send him doubts, and he would respond. Motivation & Discipline – When I felt low, Deepak Sir reminded me why I started this journey. It felt less like a coaching institute and more like a personal mentor-student relationship. My FRM Part 1 Results On the result day, I was nervous. But when I saw my scorecard, I couldn’t believe it – Top quartile in all subjects! Foundations of Risk Management – Q1 Quantitative Analysis – Q1 Financial Markets & Products – Q1 Valuation & Risk Models – Q1 That moment made all the sacrifices worth it. And the credit goes to RBei Classes and Deepak Goyal Sir. Why RBei Classes is the Best FRM Coaching for Working Professionals After my success, I can confidently say that
The SCR Exam is a comprehensive, standard-oriented assessment covering fundamental guidelines, methodologies, and frameworks used in anticipating and managing climate risk. It consists of 90 equally weighted multiple-choice questions, including two case studies. Candidates will be allotted four hours to complete the Exam.
After earning the SCR Certificate, you can apply principles of sustainability and climate risk management in current and future roles, giving you a competitive advantage. Passing the Exam demonstrates you possess the knowledge and tools necessary to assess and manage the sustainability and climate risk challenges many industries face.
The Exam is not highly quantitative. It is designed to be accessible to a wide audience. A few questions may require limited multiplication and division, an understanding of ratios or knowledge of measurement units and the magnitude of metrics relevant to specific risk management topics. Some questions may present graphs or tables with quantitative information.
No work experience is required to sit for the Exam.
Currently, the SCR Exam is offered in American English only.
Initial registration for the SCR Certificate program includes the full curriculum in eBook form, a full-length Practice Exam, the fee to sit for the Exam, and issuance of the certificate for successful candidates. Please refer to the fee schedule here.
Yes. Please fill out the Team Registration form to explore how you can elevate your organization's risk management by educating multiple employees at a time.
Candidates can pay for their exam registration via:
Credit Card: GARP accepts MasterCard, Visa, Amex, and Discover.
ePay: GARP accepts Alipay.
Wire: All wire payments will include a USD 50 processing fee added to your invoice. Please reference your GARP ID and Invoice Number when sending your payment. Full instructions can be found at the bottom of your invoice.
ACH: All ACH payments will include a USD 50 processing fee added to your invoice. Please reference your GARP ID and Invoice Number when sending your payment. Full instructions can be found at the bottom of your invoice.
Please refer to this link for a comprehensive list of Pearson VUE exam sites.
The Exam will be administered as an in-person Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Exam at Pearson VUE test sites worldwide.
Registration is when you sign up for an exam by entering your account details and paying the applicable exam fees for a specific exam window. After you register, you need to schedule your exam appointment. During scheduling you select the exact location, date, and time of your exam appointment. If you do not schedule your exam after you register, you will not know when and where to attend the exam.
For complete information on exam dates, registration deadlines, scheduling, and more, please visit our Exam Logistics page.
ReBI notifies candidates if they pass or do not pass the Exam. Candidates who don't pass their Exam, register and don't schedule their Exam, or schedule and don't take the Exam can pay a one-time retake fee of USD 350, during the next two exam cycles only. After two cycles candidates must re-register for the program and pay all applicable fees.
Depending on availability, candidates may reschedule their exam date (from among the dates included in the exam window they registered for) or change their in-person CBT exam site using the Pearson VUE scheduling website, until 48 hours before the start of the scheduled Exam.
If your Exam appointment is canceled, it is likely due to circumstances out of ReBI's control including but not limited to exam site changes, a natural disaster, an evacuation, acts of military, political or government authority, global pandemic, or "Acts of God", ReBI's will make every effort to notify candidates as soon as possible and GARP will help reschedule your exam appointment within the same exam administration window.
Once an exam window closes, GARP scores Exams in a timely fashion. Candidates are notified when their results are available in their GARP candidate portal.
Yes, candidates can enroll in the SCR Certificate program if they are currently registered for or plan to register for the FRM or RAI Program.
Preparation time varies by candidate. GARP estimates an average preparation time of 100-150 hours.
A full-length Practice Exam, the SCR eBook, and access to GARP Learning are included with registration. Candidates will receive an email explaining eBook access after registering.
SCR print books are available for purchase here for USD 300, plus shipping. GARP offers the SCR Study Guide and Learning Objectives document to assist candidates in successfully preparing for the SCR Exam. This study aid is available for free digital download on the GARP website.
Yes. Due to the sizable amount of material covered in the Exam, GARP suggests following a weekly study schedule. Preparing for the Exam at the last minute is strongly discouraged.
The SCR Exam focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to effectively respond to sustainability and climate risk challenges within an organization.
Topics include:
Foundations of Climate Change: What is Climate Change?
Sustainability
Climate Change Risk
Sustainability and Climate Policy, Culture, and Governance
Green and Sustainable Finance: Markets and Instruments
Climate Risk Measurement and Management
Climate Models and Scenario Analysis
Net Zero
Climate and Nature Risk Assessment
Transition Planning and Carbon Reporting
The Exam will be administered as an in-person Computer-Based Testing (CBT) Exam at Pearson VUE test sites worldwide.
Registration is when you sign up for an exam by entering your account details and paying the applicable exam fees for a specific exam window. After you register, you need to schedule your exam appointment. During scheduling you select the exact location, date, and time of your exam appointment. If you do not schedule your exam after you register, you will not know when and where to attend the exam.
GARP strives to maintain our program's best-in-class curriculum and associated study materials. In order to ensure relevance and accuracy, GARP reviews the curriculum every year. Revisions are made and new study materials are released December 1 for the following calendar year.
You must send an email to [email protected] to update your name to match your identification.
Your identification must meet ALL of the following requirements:
Below is a list of possible acceptable forms of identification:
The name associated with the registration must exactly match the name on your identification on exam day. This includes an exact match of the first name, last name, and any middle name or initial.
There are NO exceptions to GARP's Identification Policy. On exam day if you do not present an acceptable form of ID as listed above, you will not be allowed to sit for the Exam.
You must send an email to [email protected] to update your name to match your identification.
Please confirm the name on your GARP Dashboard matches the name on the government issued ID you plan to use on exam day.
The below pictured digital calculator is provided for you on the screen during the Exam.
Candidates must leave their cellular phone outside of the exam room in the designated personal belonging area.
No personal items are allowed in the exam room or environment. Candidates may not bring or wear barrettes, hair clips, headbands, or hairbands. Removable jewelry is not permitted in the exam room. Candidates may not bring any books and/or notes into the exam room for use during the exam session, unless pre-authorized by GARP in advance.
Candidates must store all personal items in a secure area (a locker), as indicated by the proctor, or return personal items to their vehicle. If candidates refuse to store personal items, they will not be allowed to sit for the Exam, and they will lose their registration fee. All electronic devices must be turned off before storing them in a locker.
Candidates may not leave the exam room without proctor approval. If you need a restroom break, you must raise your hand, and wait to be acknowledged by a proctor. No additional time is given if you take a break.
Candidates must store all personal items in a secure area (a locker), as indicated by the proctor, or return personal items to their vehicle. If candidates refuse to store personal items, they will not be allowed to sit for the Exam, and they will lose their registration fee. All electronic devices must be turned off before storing them in a locker.
SCR Certificate holders can advance their climate risk education through the GARP CPD program. Certificate holders must earn 20 CPD credits per cycle to stay current. After completing 20 credits in a 2-year cycle, SCR Certificate holders may download a CPD Acknowledgement of Completion Certificate. While CPD is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged.
Yes, an electronic certificate of completion and a complimentary digital badge is granted to those who passed the Exam.
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