Frequently Asked Questions | School of Quant Finance Programs

1. What is the duration of the programs at SQF

7 months. It includes 320 hours classroom instruction.

2. Under what circumstances, can I move to a later batch?

Moving to a later batch will be allowed only under extenuating circumstances. It will be decided on a case-by-case basis.

3. I am an engineering student. Can I get admission before I get my degree?

Absolutely. It is necessary that you have done the mathematics that is prerequisite to the program. Therefore, ideally, if you are in the final or pre-final year, you are welcome to join the program. For those in the first and second year, admission can be considered on a case-by-case basis after reviewing their background.

4. If I complete successfully one certificate program at SQF, can I enroll in another program and do only the specialization part and skip the core which I have already done?

Absolutely. Suppose you have completed the Certificate in Quant Finance at SQF. You want to do Certificate in Artificial Intelligence & Quant Finance. You can enroll with the next batch and do only the 90 hours of the specialization courses i.e. you skip the first 230 hours of core courses which you have done already. You pay fee only for the 90 hours of specialization part. It will be determined at the time you wish to enroll.

5. What sort of education does one need to be a quant?

The prerequisite for Quantitative Finance is mathematics, especially calculus, at the college level. If you have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, physics, or engineering, you have the prerequisite. In many universities, the curriculum of economics, statistics and operations research also include mathematics, especially calculus, at the same level. If you are from such a background, you should have the required prerequisite.

To become a quant, you need to learn Quantitative Finance. This involves learning probability theory, stochastic processes, stochastic calculus, numerical methods and applying these for derivative pricing and risk management involving different asset classes. The entire gamut of topics necessary for a quant is covered in the certificate programs offered by SQF.

6. Quant after a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences?

Typically biological sciences do not include mathematics in their curricula. However, if you had mathematics until Class 12th, you can do Quant Finance provided you are willing to work hard and make up for any deficiency you might have. The certificate programs at SQF includes a course on mathematics to get you up to speed. You must also review your class 11th and 12th mathematics books to refresh your knowledge.

7. How can a software developer become a quant developer?

If you have the right background (see answer to question #5 above), all you need to do is a Certificate in Quant Finance from SQF. It will open the doors for a career as quant analyst.

8. Effective ways to become a quant with a little experience in finance?

If you have the right background (see answer to question #5 ), all you need to do is a Certificate in Quant Finance from SQF.

9. Is it possible to become a quant without a masters or a PhD?

Absolutely. The certificate program at the SQF will provide all the knowledge in about six months that you would obtain from a master’s.

10. For 12th students with weak math background but want to pursue career in finance.

A good knowledge of mathematics covered in 11th and 12th must be acquired first. Therefore, you may want to start by mastering the text books of 11th and 12th class. SQF also offers courses on Remedial Mathematics to get you up to speed. You may want to consider enrolling in these courses.

11. I am unable to decide whether I should do an MBA or a certificate course at SQF? What is the right direction for me?

Assuming you have a bachelor’s degree in a mathematical field (such as Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Economics, Statistics or Operations Research), a certificate program at the SQF will open the doors to the most lucrative jobs is the market!! In just about 7 months!

12. Is it necessary to have a background in programming?

No. You will learn Python in this program. After that learning any other programming language is largely a matter of learning new syntax. You can learn another language if your job requires it.

13. Do I need prior knowledge of Economics or Finance?

No. The courses in the programs at SQF will start from scratch and give you all you need to become a Quantitative Analyst / Risk Professional.

14. I have done a bachelor’s degree in physics / mathematics / statistics. Will I benefit from this program?

Yes. This program is ideal for you. A degree in physics, mathematics or statistics does not make you employable but equips you with all the prerequisites for quant finance which not only makes you employable but also promises a hugely rewarding career. In just about six months you will be in the job market with some of the most lucrative jobs knocking on your door!!

15. How much maths do I need to know?

Ideally, mathematics at the level covered at the undergraduate level in engineering, physics or mathematics. However. if you have good knowledge of mathematics at the class 12th level, you can manage if you are willing to put in the extra effort.

16. How will the program be delivered?

The program will be delivered online. The classes will be held on Saturdays and Sundays. The classes will be live, instructor-led in real time. Recording of each class will be available after the class.

17. Do I need work experience to join the certificate programs of SQF?

No. Working professional as well as college students are welcome! The classes will be run conveniently in the afternoons of Saturday and Sunday making it convenient for all.

18. Can I switch from one program to another after joining? For example, if I joined the Certificate in Quant Finance and later want to switch to the Certificate AI & Quant Finance. Is it possible?

Yes. Typically, within 2 months after the start of the program. The cut-off date will be announced before the start of the program.

19. Is any background in finance required.

No. All the programs start from scratch.

20. Is any work experience in the finance sector required?

No.

21. Is it possible to change the class time 3 – 5 pm?

Yes. If all participants in a cohort agree to a different time, say 2:30 – 7:30 or 2:00 – 7:00, and if it is ok with the instructor, we can change the time accordingly.

22. I am based outside India. Can I enroll in the programs of SQF?

Absolutely. The classes will be held on weekends in afternoons during 9:30 am – 2:30 pm GMT. This should be convenient for you no matter where you are.

23. Will the classes be live?

Yes, the classes will be live and led by the instructor. The recording of each class will be available after the class.

1. What is the refund policy?

Fees once paid will not be returned.

2. For getting the Group Discount what is the minimum number of participants in the group?

3. If, after admission, a member of the group withdraws, what happens?

If the size of the group drops to below the minimum required, the discounted price given to the group members does not apply. They must pay the balance.

4. For getting the Group Discount, is it necessary that all members of the group join the same program?

It’s ok if members of the group join different programs. For example, one member may join Certificate in Quant Finance while another joins the Certificate in Artificial Intelligence & Quant Finance.

5. If I want to pay in installments, when are the payments due?

The first installment is due at the time of admission, the 2nd two months after the program starts, and the 3rd four months after the program starts.

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