The Academy of Finance

Shaping the Next Generation of Investors

Building Confidence for Life.

The Academy of Finance® is an immersive path into the world of investing for ambitious students who want to understand financial markets, build and manage wealth, or prepare for a future in finance. Led by seasoned Wall Street professionals and distinguished academic experts, our programs combine financial knowledge with experience. Participants research markets, manage portfolios, assess risk, make decisions, and develop the judgment and confidence to become informed investors for life.

The Academy of Finance School - New York & Connecticut

A message from the Chairman

The Academy of Finance School - New York & Connecticut

CURRENT

PROGRAMS

Explore our current programs and initiatives.

20 Positions. 8 Weeks. $1 Million to Invest.

The Wall Street Master Class®

Real Capital. Real Decisions. Real-World Responsibilities.

The Wall Street Master Class® Level II

Visit New York. Discover Wall Street. Experience Investing.

Wall Street Immersion Experience®

Join the Investment Committee Table

Become an Investor.

At The Academy of Finance®, we believe in learning by doing. Students do not simply study investing. They become investors. Around The Investment Committee table, investors research real companies, follow financial markets, participate in investment simulations and portfolio challenges, and make and defend their own decisions. Through direct interaction with seasoned Wall Street professionals, they put financial knowledge into practice and develop the skills, judgment, and confidence that come from experience.

Preparing for the Professional World

Career Guidance & Professional Etiquette

We believe education extends beyond the classroom. Professional etiquette, communication, and personal presentation are essential life skills that prepare students to enter the professional world with confidence.

Research & Innovation

Advancing Financial Education Through Research

Research and innovation are at the center of our approach to financial education. Led by Mario DiFiore, PhD, Senior Assistant Dean at Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business and Advisory Board Member of the New York Financial Educators Council, The Academy of Finance® Research Institute conducts research to better understand financial and investment literacy, investor behavior, and how the next generation learns about financial markets.

Our students’ latest internships

SCHOOLS

Where Our Students Study

The Academy Experience

In their own words

"The Academy of Finance has the rare educational trifecta: a curriculum that truly teaches, an achievement that impresses in admissions and employment, and a lifelong impact that endures in its students... and the participants love the program and each other."
Keith Berman

President, Options for College, Inc. | School Counseling

"The Academy of Finance's winter 2026 session provided an exceptional experience for my son, Canaan. Despite being a high school sophomore with limited prior knowledge of financial markets and trading, he was thoroughly engaged and inspired."
Harry Gill

Parent

"The Academy of Finance was an eye-opening experience that provided valuable insight into the world of the stock market. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in immersing themselves in the world of Wall Street and learning from experienced professionals in the field."
Kiersten

Wall Street Master Class Spring 2026

"The Academy of Finance is an outstanding program with a true culture of excellence. The small cohort size allows for personalized attention and strong mentorship, which made a huge difference for my daughter."
Daniela Ranieri

Parent

"The Academy of Finance is a phenomenal place for anyone with a passion for the stock market world, regardless of prior experience. I learned so much in such a short period of time and I can't wait to see where it takes me!"
Daniel C.

Student, Bard High School Early College

"The Academy of Finance has been an incredible experience. It gave me valuable knowledge, meaningful connections, and unforgettable memories. I’m very grateful for everything."
Tatiana

Student, Sacred Heart University

“I had an amazing learning experience. This is an extraordinary opportunity to learn how the market works in a real-world environment.”
Harris White

Student, Tamalpais High School

"Being a student not only deepened my knowledge of finance tremendously, but also ignited an even stronger passion for the field. "
Alexa - Student - Academy of Finance
Alexandra S.

Student, Northeastern University

“An excellent course and a deep dive into the world of investing and wealth building. It involved engaging presentations from industry experts and enriching lessons from Mr. James Demmert. I highly recommend it to any student interested in learning what it really takes to be a successful investor!”
Christann Peart

Student, Stuyvesant High School

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