Ever searched “financial modelling meaning” on Google and ended up with ten tabs open, each more confusing than the last? You’re not alone. Terms like DCF, LBO, or three-statement models sound like they’re made for bankers only.
But the truth is, it’s not that complicated. With the right steps, financial modelling becomes a practical, rewarding skill to learn in 2025. And it’s not just about numbers—it can actually lead you to real internships, projects, and exciting career growth.
And here’s why this blog matters: by the end, you’ll know the exact roadmap to start financial modelling and how to land internships or projects that turn learning into real opportunities.
So, what does financial modelling mean?
Think of it as creating a smart version of a business in Excel. You plug in numbers to answer “what if” questions, like what happens if sales grow, costs rise, or funding changes. It’s used everywhere: investment banking, corporate finance, equity research and even private equity, to forecast, value, and plan
The roadmap (follow this order)
Phase 1: Lay the base
Get fast and fluent in Excel: formulas, shortcuts, formatting, and linking sheets. If you can fly through Excel without touching your mouse too much, you’re ready. Then learn the “big three” statements: income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow because once you know how they connect, forecasting and valuations make a lot more sense.
Phase 2: Build real models
Begin with small exercises like forecasting revenues and expenses. Once that feels comfortable, move on to full three-statement models, DCF valuations, and even merger models. Always use financial data from real listed companies. It makes your practice practical and helps you build a portfolio you can actually show.
Phase 3: Differentiate yourself
Learn how to create LBO models for private equity or merger models for investment banking. Explore tools like Python and Power BI to add automation and visual dashboards. These extra skills not only set you apart from the crowd but also show that you’re ready for how finance is changing.
Quick tip: Regular practice always beats random tutorials. Keep building small, simple models, and within a month or so, you’ll start noticing real improvement.
How to get internships and projects (even if you’re new)
Make a mini-portfolio.
Create 2–3 sample models using public financials (one three-statement + DCF, one budgeting model, one sector model if you can). Share short readme notes: assumptions, links to sources, and screenshots. Recruiters love evidence.
Turn LinkedIn into your launchpad.
Optimise your headline and “About” with keywords like financial modelling, Excel modelling, and DCF analysis. Then reach out to alumni and practitioners with polite, personalised notes; join finance groups; comment thoughtfully. Hidden roles live in networks.
Try freelancing for practice
Websites like Upwork and Fiverr have smaller projects that are perfect for beginners. They help you gain experience, build confidence, and collect reviews. Start small, deliver well, and request client feedback. Once you’ve got a few wins, you can aim for bigger platforms and better-paying projects.
Apply smart and follow up.
Use Internshala and Glassdoor for internships; customise your resume to highlight your actual modelling work. If you don’t hear back, send a short and professional follow-up note. That small step often makes a big difference.
Keep learning, and let people see it.
Adding certifications like CFA or a Financial Modelling and Valuations Course can boost your profile. Also, stay updated with finance news, trends, and industry discussions. Recruiters notice candidates who are active, curious, and informed.
Learn to Earn: turn practice into interviews
Think of it as a simple routine to stay consistent:
- Daily (30–45 min): Pick up one Excel skill + one accounting concept.
- Weekly (1 project): Build a small model on a listed company with 3–5 key assumptions.
- Monthly (public proof): Share your progress, post a short learning summary or a snapshot of your model on LinkedIn.
Follow this rhythm, and over time you’ll feel more confident. Even better, it often leads to interview calls and opportunities landing right in your inbox.
Roles and salary outlook in India (what to expect)
Most people start out as analysts or associates. As your skills grow, you can move into areas like investment banking, equity research, or portfolio management. Freshers usually earn around ₹5–8 lakh a year (depending on company and city). With experience and strong modelling skills, salaries can rise to ₹15–25 lakh or more. The common thread? The better your models help in real decision-making, the faster you move ahead.
What hiring managers actually look for
- Clear links: Your three statements should connect smoothly.
- Solid assumptions: Be ready to explain why you chose certain growth rates, margins, or costs.
- Scenarios: Always test different cases—base, optimistic, and conservative.
- Readable files: Keep sheets neat, formatted, and easy to follow.
Suppose your model helps a company make quicker, smarter decisions. Whether it’s raising funds, expanding, or pricing a deal, you instantly become more valuable.
Your 2-week starter plan (save this)
- Week 1: Practice Excel every day and revise the three statements. End the week by building a small revenue and expense model.
- Week 2: Turn that into a three-statement model with a basic DCF. Write a short one-page summary, share a snippet on LinkedIn, apply to 10 roles, message 5 alumni, and try one small freelance project.
Wrapping It Up
Financial modelling can seem tricky at first, but when you take it step by step, it gets easier, and every model you finish adds to your confidence. The idea of Learn to Earn is simple: the more you practice, the more doors open: internships, projects, and jobs follow naturally.
All you need to do now is open Excel, pick a company, and get started. That’s how the journey begins.
And if you want structured guidance, The WallStreet School’s Financial Modelling and Valuations Course is a solid option, which will give you everything you need for the best.
If you want to learn more about the roadmap, read our guide, Financial Modelling Course: A Roadmap
FAQs:-
Q1. What is the future of financial modelling?
Ans. Very strong. As companies rely more on data for decisions, financial modelling will stay in demand across banking, corporate finance, and investment roles in the coming years.
Q2. How many days to learn financial modelling?
Ans. You can learn the basics in 30–45 days with daily practice. Advanced models take longer, but steady effort and real-world projects speed up the learning curve.
Q3. What is the highest salary of financial modelling?
Ans. In India, skilled professionals can earn ₹25–30 lakh yearly. Globally, senior experts in investment banking or private equity earn far more, depending on skills and experience.
Q4. What is Excel modelling?
Ans. It’s building financial models in Excel to forecast revenues, costs, and cash flows. Excel is the base tool for almost all financial modelling tasks in finance.
Q5. What are the 10 steps in financial planning?
Ans. Set goals, budget, track spending, save, invest, manage debt, insure, plan taxes, prepare for retirement, and review regularly to stay on track with your finances.
