Competition Structure
The NOVA Finance Challenge combines practical investing experience with financial knowledge and creative expression. Students compete across core components and optional bonus tracks to earn their final ranking.
Core Component 1 Simulated Investment Challenge (75%)
Participants manage a virtual investment portfolio using real-time market data.
Key features:
- Starting capital: $100,000 virtual portfolio
- Real U.S. stock market simulation
- Investment period: 10–12 weeks
- Rankings based on risk-adjusted performance
Students are encouraged to:
- Develop long-term strategies
- Manage risk effectively
- Avoid excessive speculation
Core Component 2 Financial Knowledge Exam (25%)
All participants complete an online exam designed to test fundamental financial knowledge.
Exam details:
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Format: Multiple choice(50 questions)
- Conducted online with proctoring
Exam topics include:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Investment fundamentals
- Financial mathematics
- Business and market concepts
Optional Bonus Tracks (Extra Points)
Students may earn additional points by participating in optional challenge tracks.
Investment Research Report (+10 points)
- 1–2 page stock or sector analysis
- Focus on reasoning, research, and clarity
Investment Video Pitch (+10 points)
- 2–3 minute video presentation
- Explain an investment idea or strategy
Creative Design Challenge (+5 points)
- Design a competition logo, poster, or financial app concept
- Judged on creativity and relevance
Leadership & Project Team Opportunities (Selective)
Top-performing and highly engaged students may be invited to join the NOVA Student Leadership and Project Team.
Selected students may have the opportunity to:
- Help organize future NOVA competitions
- Participate in special finance or business projects
- Contribute ideas for new challenge tracks
- Represent NOVA as student ambassadors
- Take on leadership roles in international student initiatives
- This program is designed to recognize outstanding participants and provide continued opportunities for growth, leadership, and real-world project experience.
