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Financial Risk Manager (FRM®)
Exam Preparation Program - Part I

Fast Track Your Way to Earning the World's Leading Financial Risk Management Certification

Delivered in partnership with Kaplan, a globally recognized leader in professional education and exam preparation, this program combines world-class learning resources, expert instruction, and proven exam preparation methodologies to help you succeed in your FRM® journey.

The FRM® Exam Preparation Program prepares you for the first step toward earning the globally recognized Financial Risk Manager (FRM®) certification accredited by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). FRM® Part I curriculum equips participants to confidently sit the FRM® Part I examination. The program focuses on tools used to assess financial risk covering topics such as foundations of risk management concepts, quantitative analysis, financial markets and products, and valuation and risk models. Learn more about the FRM® Part I curriculum by watching the course overview.

Globally recognized benchmark for financial risk managers, the FRM® certification is proof that you’re ready and able to assess, measure, and monitor risk in real-world situations.

Join an elite group of over 96,000 certified FRMs practicing over 190 countries and regions.

This program is designed exclusively to prepare candidates for the examination. Participants must register separately for the FRM® exam.

* FRM® program is also available as a corporate training program.

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Is This Program Right for You?

Are you a professional looking to help safeguard your organization's financial stability and reputation?

Are you seeking to advance your career by strengthening your expertise in financial risk management and gaining a competitive edge over other risk professionals? If so, the FRM® Exam Preparation Program is the right choice to support your professional growth.

The FRM® Exam Preparation Program is designed for individuals with an interest in banking, finance, investments, risk management, or compliance who are planning to take the FRM® Part I examination. There are no degree requirements to enroll in this preparation program.

This program is ideal for professionals who are currently working in, or aspiring to build a career in, the following industries:

Banking and Financial Services
Risk Management and Compliance
Investment Management
Treasury
Corporate Finance
Consulting
Insurance
Technology and FinTech
Government and Regulatory Bodies

Corporations across the globe increasingly rely on professionals who can identify, measure, and manage financial risk in an evolving global economy. The FRM® certification, accredited by GARP is one of the world's most prestigious credentials in financial risk management and is recognized by leading banks, asset managers, consulting firms, and regulatory institutions.

Our preparation program will help you build the technical knowledge and practical understanding required to confidently pursue the FRM® Part I examination while positioning yourself for greater career opportunities in the financial sector.

Meet the Experts

Akshay Pahwa, CFA, FRM, CIPM

Finance Trainer - Kaplan Middle East and North Africa

Akshay has over a decade of experience in the investment management industry, having held analytical and leadership roles at multinational asset management firms. His corporate background focuses on the technical aspects of the investment lifecycle, including multi-asset fund analysis, performance attribution, and derivative valuation. Throughout his career, he has managed diverse functions ranging from manager research and GIPS compliance to the valuation of complex OTC products. He has a consistent record of translating sophisticated financial data into clear insights for both retail and institutional audiences, supported by deep practical experience with industry tools. In addition to his professional designations, Akshay holds a Master’s degree in Commerce. For the past five years, he has bridged the gap between professional practice and financial education by conducting training sessions for specialized finance courses at both college and corporate levels. He utilizes a practical, experience-driven approach to help students and professionals navigate the complexities of modern investment management.

Nicola Pasquali, CFA, FRM

Finance Trainer - Kaplan MENA

Nicola is an investment banking professional with over 10 years of experience in Europe, sealing M&A deals with premier counterparts like the Government of the Russian Federation; the National Energy Company of the State of Brazil, Petrobras; and the world’s largest conglomerate, Reliance Industries. A graduate of the Executive MBA program of London Business School, Nicola has served as Chief Investment Officer of the largest equity fund of Central Asia – the Central Asian Investment Fund, managing assets in excess of USD 10M and delivering on key performance indicators like total and relative return after hurdle rate; ESG compliance; and transparency and timeliness of reporting. Nicola is the Founder, shareholder and Chief Executive Officer of Step99, a consulting boutique in Dubai supporting private investors optimizing their capital allocation and portfolio management choices, with unique expertise and track record in intergenerational succession and planning. Nicola is a proud member of the Arts Club; an avid reader and art investor and collector; and passionate about technology, innovation and applied mathematics.

Sheema Shiraz Ali, CFA, FRM

Senior Manager- Faculty and Learning Experience

Sheema Shiraz Ali is a highly experienced banking and finance professional with over 15 years of expertise in risk management, regulatory compliance, and financial governance, gained through her work at the Central Bank of Pakistan. She specializes in providing in-depth training for CFA and FRM candidates, particularly in areas like equity valuations, derivatives, and fixed income valuations and quants. Her extensive background in banking enables her to deliver real-world insights, helping candidates not only understand complex financial concepts but also apply them effectively in their careers. As a dynamic trainer, Sheema has led CFA and FRM-focused programs across the GCC, guiding professionals through challenging topics with practical examples and engaging lessons. Her passion for financial education and mentoring shines through in her ability to break down intricate concepts and make them accessible, ensuring her students are well-prepared for success in their exams and in the finance industry.

Rawad Jaber, CFA

Finance Trainer - Kaplan MENA

Rawad Jaber is a finance professional and trainer with over 15 years of experience in corporate finance, financial planning and analysis (FP&A), and strategic financial management across multiple industries. His professional experience includes senior finance roles where he has led budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and business performance analysis while supporting executive decision-making. In addition to his corporate career, Rawad has been involved in teaching and mentoring finance and investment professionals. He has delivered training and academic instruction in finance, investment analysis, and financial reporting, helping candidates and professionals develop a deeper understanding of financial concepts and analytical frameworks. Rawad specializes in areas including Financial Statement Analysis, Corporate Finance, Financial Planning and Analysis, Fixed Income, Valuation, Capital Budgeting, and Financial Modeling. His approach to training combines real-world corporate experience with the analytical rigor of professional finance education.

Akshay Bhandari, CFA

Accounting/Finance Trainer - Kaplan Middle East and North Africa

Akshay has 10 years of experience in areas of training in CFA, investment banking, and management consulting. As an investment professional, he has advised and executed diverse transactions and projects for startups and businesses globally. As a trainer, he specializes in corporate finance, equity, fixed income, and has delivered training on varied subjects in these domains to learners across age groups, professions, and qualifications. His diverse professional experience across industries enables him to deliver practical and industry-relevant courses. Hands-on industry exposure and a penchant for staying ahead of the latest developments have seen him deliver CFA sessions on upcoming domains like cryptocurrency, AI, and other diverse financial topics. Akshay is an MBA and CFA charterholder. An avid reader, he believes that learning is the only true free lunch in today’s integrated economy.

What Makes our program Stand Out?

Industry-Leading Learning Experience

Learn from expert instructors using Kaplan's proven training methodology, trusted Schweser study materials, and exam-focused resources designed to maximize your success.

Dedicated Candidate Support

Receive personalized support throughout your learning journey with direct access to expert instructors, prompt query resolution, comprehensive question banks, mock examinations, and ongoing motivation to help you stay on track.

Advanced Learning Platform

Learn anytime, anywhere through Kaplan’s user-friendly Learning Management System. Access all course materials in one centralized platform, participate in live virtual classes and discussion forums, monitor your progress through performance tracking, and enjoy secure mobile access.

Success Stories from FRM® Professionals

“Kaplan has provided me with an exceptional learning experience, combining expert guidance with a supportive environment. The experts are highly knowledgeable, and the curriculum is both comprehensive and engaging. I feel well-equipped to tackle real-world challenges thanks to the skills and insights gained here.” - FRM Part 1 Candidate 2025

“Kaplan’s focused FRM Part 1 coaching along with Schweser materials and structured plan were instrumental in my first attempt to successfully pass the exam in May 2025. Their clear explanations and targeted practice gave me the confidence to succeed efficiently.” - FRM Part 1 Candidate 2024

Reserve Your Seat

Why the FRM® Preparation Program Is in Demand in Saudi Arabia?

As Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its financial sector under Vision 2030, corporations are placing greater emphasis on effective risk management, regulatory compliance, and sound financial decision-making. In an environment of rapid growth, investment, and transformation, risk management has evolved into a strategic driver of organizational resilience and business success rather than merely a regulatory obligation. As a result, banks, investment firms, insurance companies, consulting firms, and government institutions are increasingly seeking professionals with specialized expertise in financial risk to help them navigate uncertainty, strengthen resilience, and support informed strategic decision-making.

Career Prospects

The FRM® designation equips professionals with specialized expertise to identify, assess, and manage a wide range of financial and operational risks, including market, credit, liquidity, operational, investment, ESG, and cybersecurity risks. Recognized by employers worldwide, the certification strengthens professional credibility, enhances leadership potential, increases earning opportunities, and opens doors to career advancement across banking, asset management, consulting, insurance, government, and other sectors where effective risk management is essential.

Program Details

Program Duration: 33 days, part-time
Starting Date: November 1, 2026 – January 28, 2027
Training Format: Blended (a combination of online and on-campus sessions)
Schedule: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (KSA time)
Program Language: English
Application Deadline: October 27, 2026
Tuition Fees: 16,000

For any inquiries or additional information, please contact Ms. Rebecca Daher, Manager of the Center of Executive Education & Development, at rdaher@alfaisal.edu.

Enroll Now

Getting Started

Enrolling onto one of our programs is a simple, three-step process:
1. Complete the online registration form
2. Submit the required documents and pay the application fee
3. Receive your acceptance notification and confirm your enrollment

Program Cancellation & Refund Policy

Cancellation Policy:

If the Executive Education & Development Center cancels a program for reasons beyond its control, participants will receive a full refund of their paid fees.
A minimum of two weeks' notice (or as applicable) will be provided to applicants.
For any further inquiries, please contact us at exec.ed@alfaisal.edu.

Refund Policy:

Full or partial refunds will be provided, subject to minimum cancellation deadlines, as shown below:

Full Refund: If the cancellation request is sent via email to the Executive Education & Development Center (exec.ed@alfaisal.edu) no later than two weeks (14 days) before the program's scheduled start date.

Partial Refund: If the cancellation request is sent to the above email address no later than 10 days before the program's scheduled start date, a 75% refund will be provided.

No Refund: If the cancellation request is sent with fewer than 10 days' notice before the program start date, or after the program has started, there will be no refund. If the participant does not attend part or all the program training, there will be no refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FRM® suitable for professionals without a finance background?

Yes. While the certification is highly regarded within finance and banking, many successful FRM® candidates come from diverse professional backgrounds including engineering, technology, data analytics, accounting, economics, mathematics, business administration, consulting, and others.

Can I study for the FRM® certification while working full-time?

Yes. The majority of FRM® candidates are working professionals. Flexible learning options, recorded lectures, online study resources, practice questions, and structured review programs allow candidates to balance exam preparation with professional responsibilities.

What industries hire FRM® certified professionals?

FRM® certified professionals are sought after across a wide range of sectors where risk assessment, financial analysis, compliance, and strategic decision making are critical.

Common employers include:

Commercial and Islamic banks
Investment firms and asset management companies
Fintech and digital banking organizations
Insurance and reinsurance companies
Sovereign wealth funds
Government and regulatory authorities
Management consulting firms
Credit rating agencies
Energy and infrastructure organizations
Multinational corporations with enterprise risk functions

As organizations increasingly prioritize resilience, governance, and risk oversight, demand for FRM® professionals continues to grow across both public and private sectors.

What certification will I receive?

Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a Certificate of Completion from Alfaisal University's Center for Executive Education and Development. Participants who independently register for and successfully pass the FRM® examination will earn the globally recognized Financial Risk Manager (FRM®) certification, awarded by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP).

What course materials will I receive?

Participants will receive access to all required digital course materials. Printed (hard copy) materials are not provided. Access instructions for the digital learning resources will be shared with participants prior to the start of the program.

Financial Risk Manager (FRM®) Exam Preparation Program - Part I