From a point where I know next to nothing about being a Quant, it must be definitely necessary to have some sort of coursework/certification in hand. I had planned to do:1.Some non-degree coursework on Finance Math/Statistics & doing lots of reading.2. Doing a CQF from 7 City/similar certification.3. Doing a 1-2 year Masters in FE, along with internship at the end.-----------------Question 1 : Does that seem like a reasonable plan and roadmap? Question 2: Is a CQF or equivalent, enough to get me a job as a Quant? Should I also go in for a Masters in FE?Question 3: Could someone suggest or recommend any other good CQF like certifications?Thanks so much!Prasenjit

Given that you are in India right now (correct?), the easiest way for you is to enroll into a good MFE program.It would almost guarantee you an internship, and a full time job once you finish. You can pay off the costs by the year end bonus at the end of your first year.

Thanks much for the advice Veeru. Would a CFQ help me to get into a top notch MFE program? Along with my GRE, workex, reco's, of course .. ?Thanks,Prasenjit

Came across this great post by jfuqua:http://www.wilmott.com/messageview.cfm? ... id=43304He kindly details 17 points about the average quant's daily activities, including for senior and junior positions. Great post.

QuoteOriginally posted by: prasenjitmedhiThanks much for the advice Veeru. Would a CFQ help me to get into a top notch MFE program? Along with my GRE, workex, reco's, of course .. ?Thanks,PrasenjitYes a CQF especially like at Wilmott should help you get into a good MFE program. So will the grad coursework in Stat/Math that you had been talking about. Another way to get into MFE program is also to have a graduate degree in either Stat/Math or even engineering + working experience showing interest in Finance.

QuoteOriginally posted by: prasenjitmedhiThanks much for the advice Veeru. Would a CFQ help me to get into a top notch MFE program? Along with my GRE, workex, reco's, of course .. ?Thanks,PrasenjitMaybe, but are you willing to spend an additional 30k?

Logically I should be willing to spend 30k so I might have a good chance at earning perhaps as much as 30k, over and above what I might earn as a network engineer, again, per year, after five years. But there is that risk aversion factor. Then again, I like risk.Lets wait and see, sir.Thanks for the post.