The Academy of Finance

Summer 2026 Applications Now Open — The Wall Street Master Class®

March 15th 2026

The Academy of Finance® Students Experience the New York Stock Exchange
Applications are now open for the Summer 2026 cohort of the Wall Street Master Class®, the flagship program of The Academy of Finance® in New York. Designed for a select group of highly motivated students, this immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to develop a deep understanding of investing, financial markets, and long-term wealth building—directly in the environment of Wall Street.

A Selective Finance Program in New York

The Wall Street Master Class® is not a traditional finance course. It is a rigorous, hands-on program where students learn to think and act like investors. Each cohort is intentionally limited to ensure a high level of engagement, personalized mentorship, and a strong cohort dynamic. Students are selected based on their intellectual curiosity, discipline, and genuine interest in finance—not prior experience.

Learning by Doing: Real Market Exposure

At the core of the program is a practical approach to finance education.

Students participate in a $1 Million Investment Challenge, where they manage a simulated portfolio and apply real-world strategies across:

  • Asset allocation
  • Stock selection
  • Risk management
  • Market analysis

This hands-on experience allows students to move beyond theory and develop the judgment required to navigate financial markets with confidence.

A Direct Connection to Wall Street

Hosted in Midtown Manhattan, the program offers direct exposure to the financial industry.

Students benefit from:

  • In-person sessions led by experienced professionals
  • Guest speakers from leading financial institutions
  • Private visits to iconic locations such as the New York Stock Exchange
  • Networking opportunities with industry leaders

This level of immersion makes the program one of the most distinctive Wall Street programs for high school and college students.

Beyond Finance: Building Discipline and Perspective

The Academy’s approach goes beyond technical knowledge.

Students are trained to:

  • Develop a disciplined investment mindset
  • Understand the role of psychology in decision-making
  • Focus on long-term thinking rather than short-term trends
  • Approach wealth with clarity, structure, and purpose

These skills are valuable not only for careers in finance, but for any path involving decision-making and leadership.

Limited Seats Available

Due to the selective nature of the program, the number of seats for the Summer 2026 cohort is limited. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and will close once the cohort is filled.