Can I Start Financial Risk Management (FRM) After Class 12th in India While Pursuing Graduation?

The short answer is yes, you can absolutely do the Financial Risk Management (FRM) course by the GARP organization right after completing your Class 12th and while pursuing your undergraduate degree. In fact, many ambitious students have successfully embarked on this rigorous yet rewarding journey. With the right mindset and commitment, you can achieve your goals even with a tight schedule.

My Personal Experience

I myself completed both levels of the FRM exam by the age of 19. It is entirely possible to start early and make it work. The key is to balance your time effectively between your academic commitments and your FRM studies. Here's what I recommend for a practical beginning:

Start Early: Begin your FRM preparation early, even before your first year of university. This will give you a head start and ensure you are well-prepared by the time you start your exams. Foundation Building: Use your first year at college to build a strong foundation in the concepts covered in the FRM syllabus. Take advantage of your college resources and access to technical tools to enhance your understanding. Application and Practice: Don't confine yourself to learning only through books and theoretical knowledge. Apply what you learn by using technical tools such as Excel, Python, and other statistical software. This practical application will deepen your understanding and prepare you for the real world. Exploring the World: While studying is crucial, don't forget to enrich your life and experience the world around you. Spend time with your friends, travel, and explore new places. This will provide you with a broader perspective and enhance your overall well-being.

My Recommendation

I would strongly recommend that you aim to appear for the FRM exam in your second year of college. This timing allows you a balanced approach, where you can dedicate time to both your academic studies and FRM preparation. By the end of your first year, you will have gained a solid understanding of the concepts and practical skills necessary to do well in the exam.

Here are some additional tips:

Time Management: Create a realistic study plan and stick to it. Allocate specific times for FRM studies and ensure you adhere to the schedule. Study Groups: Form or join a study group with your peers who are also interested in FRM. This can be an excellent way to share resources, exchange knowledge, and keep each other motivated. Resource Utilization: Take advantage of the extensive resources available on the GARP website and other online platforms. These include practice exams, sample questions, and webinars.

Conclusion

Starting the FRM course right after your Class 12th and concurrently with your undergraduate studies is both feasible and beneficial. Just like me, many young professionals have successfully achieved this goal. Commit to your studies, manage your time wisely, and embrace the opportunities that come your way. With hard work and dedication, you can excel in the FRM course and open up exciting career opportunities in the field of financial risk management.

Thumbs up and all the very best as you embark on this exciting journey!