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Summer School in Finance

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Application for the Summer School in Finance 2026 re-opens on December 15, 2025.

(last update: November 5, 2025)

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Summer School in Finance 2025 - all participants with course instructor Irina Zviadadze

Summer School in Finance 2025 - all participants with course instructor Irina Zviadadze and teaching assistant Alina Steshkova

Klara Pavic
Klara Pavic, participant 2025

The Summer School in Finance 2025 was an intense and very rewarding experience. It offered an in-depth exploration of current research topics in finance, delivered by an outstanding lecturer who fostered critical thinking and discussion. What made the experience unique was the integration of theory with practical case work, allowing us to tackle complex financial questions hands-on. The course pushed me to expand my quantitative skills and deepened my appreciation for the intersection of research and applied finance. I left the program not only with new knowledge, but with renewed confidence and direction.

David Miederhoff
David Miederhoff, participant 2024

The Summer School in Finance was an immersive experience where I had the opportunity to learn about current topics in the world of finance from exceptional lecturers, each with immense knowledge and expertise. The practical applicability of the topics discussed added to the enjoyment. Additionally, it provided a platform for me to connect with students from various academic programs around the world, enriching the learning experience through diverse perspectives and cultural exchange.

Eva Laznik
Eva Laznik, participant 2023


The WU Summer School in Finance was an invaluable experience for me. Taught by a renowned expert in institutional investing and macro-finance, the course focused on endowment management and long-term investing strategies. It was a unique opportunity to learn from a leading scholar in the field, alongside a diverse group of students from different universities worldwide. The program deepened my understanding of innovative investment approaches and their role in fostering sustainable financial growth, all while being offered at no cost to participants thanks to the generous support of the foundation.

Federico Sciullo
Federico Sciullo, participant in 2022

The program was excellent. It gave me the opportunity to interact with students from all around Europe and collaborate with them, as well as some unique insights regarding endowment management. The university provided very high-quality teaching and the opportunity to learn and connect with professionals from both, the industry and academia. A great way to learn more about endowment management and network with new colleagues.

Ioana Ciceo
Ioana Ciceo, participant in 2022

The Endowment Management and Long Term Investment School for me was a unique way to enhance my financial knowledge with quantitative skills, learn from a renowned professor in the field, and have an opportunity to meet and work alongside equally motivated financial economics students from top universities.

M. David Davutoglu
M. David Davutoglu, participant in 2022

The instructor taught the course in an engaging and informative manner, demonstrating deep knowledge and enthusiasm. Meeting finance students from various universities provided insight into different curricula. The topics were highly applicable to the professional world, with a clear syllabus and assignments that reinforced real-world applications. By the end, I had a better grasp of my master’s coursework and clearer expectations for future job responsibilities.

Academic Program

The academic program will be taught by Alberto G. Rossi, Professor of Finance at the McDonough School of Business, Georgetown University.

The program is in the field of endowment management and long term investing. Next year's topic focuses on Artificial Intelligence.

The course is designed for graduate students interested in the field. Good quantitative skills and/or practical experience would be helpful.

lecturesdaily 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. plus afternoon activities
credits5 ECTS
class size~ 20 students
languageEnglish

Application

Applicants should send their resume, a statement of purpose (max. 1-2 pages) along with a copy of their undergraduate certificate and their current enrollment. Selection will be based on academic qualification and class diversity. 

The application deadline ends on February 15, 2026.

Q&A

Who can attend this summer school?

I am not a WU student - can I apply for this program?

Do you offer any funding for housing/traveling?

I am not sure if I have sufficient quantitative skills - can you take a look at my documents before I apply?

How many credits does this summer program have?

When does the summer program take place?

I won't be in Vienna during this period - is it possible to attend the summer program online?

How many students can participate, in total?

I am interested - how can I apply?

Which documents do I need to submit for my application?

When does the application deadline end?

I have further questions. Who can I contact?