Xinyu Zou (MF ’24) Senior Analyst, OTC Derivatives Confirmation, RBC Capital Markets

Learn about Xinyu’s journey

Xinyu Zou (MF ’24) Senior Analyst, OTC Derivatives Confirmation, RBC Capital Markets
Learn about Xinyu’s journey
“ Schulich’s Master of Finance program offers cutting-edge training backed by strong industry partnerships, preparing ambitious professionals to lead with confidence in today’s fast-paced financial landscape. Located in Toronto, one of the world’s top financial hubs, this program combines prime industry access with the opportunity to specialize in Capital Markets or Financial Risk Management equipping you with the expertise to thrive in your chosen field.”
Schulich offers a world-class education rooted in academic excellence, real-world learning, and global perspective. We prepare students to lead responsibly and thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
The Schulich Master of Finance (MF) is a globally recognized program designed for ambitious professionals seeking advanced expertise in modern finance. With strong real-world applications, it offers specializations in Capital Markets or Financial Risk Management and emphasizes ethics, governance, and legal frameworks. As a CFA and FRM partner, the MF prepares students for key industry certifications preparing graduates for successful careers in corporate finance, risk management, and beyond.
Schulich is home to a vibrant international community of students, faculty, and alumni. This diversity enhances the learning experience and equips students with the global mindset needed for success in any industry or market.
48 countries represented in our student body 65% of Schulich’s award-winning faculty are international 14+ sectors where Schulich graduates build careers
Designed for collaboration, innovation, and environmental leadership, Schulich’s Rob and Cheryl McEwen Graduate Study & Research Building offers an inspiring space to learn, connect, and grow. Features include: Graduate lounge, private group meeting rooms, media production centre, and research labs.
LEED Gold Certification (Leadership in Environmental Energy and Design)
7,500 m 2 of new landscaped space, including 3,800 m2 of planted green space 27 m natural ventilation system driven by the glass solar chimney 35+ languages spoken by Schulich faculty
Rainwater recapture system for green roof irrigation
Students participate in the program’s unique Research and Professional Seminar Series, which provides exclusive opportunities to engage with leading scholars and industry experts.
The 12-month Master of Finance grows your analytical, technical and decision-making skills, preparing you for an exciting career in finance. Research and professional seminars enhance the core curriculum and support your personal, academic, and professional development.
Start Date September Program Length 12 months
This intensive program places a strong emphasis on real-world application and on technical communication and decision making skills. The curriculum provides specialized knowledge on both the buy and the sell side of capital markets, whether in investment banking, risk management, or asset management. Critical topics in governance, ethics, and the legal aspects of finance are also embedded in your studies, preparing you to understand the important contextual dynamics of the industry. The Schulich MF allows you to chart a course in finance that aligns with your career goals, offering streams in Capital Markets and Financial Risk Management.
The Schulich MF is a program partner of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute, the global industry standard for finance professionals. Throughout the course of your studies, you will be well-equipped to successfully challenge all three levels of the CFA. You will also enjoy access to specialized online Level 1, 2, and 3 sample exams, scholarships, the Financial Newsbrief (a daily investment newsletter), and other CFA publications.
The Schulich MF is also a program partner of the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) designation offered by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). The MF curriculum covers at least 70% of the FRM’s level one exam, preparing you for two levels of the FRM exams after completing the degree. As an MF student, you are entitled to access GARP online resources free of charge. Students are also eligible to apply for GARP’s scholarships and fellowship and invited to join GARP’s networking events.
“ The Master of Finance degree is a “must-have” degree for people pursuing a career in asset management, capital markets, and risk management. It not only provides the intensive industry grounding, but also offers curriculum for the accelerated CFA and FRM pathway to launch a successful career in the modern financial industry.”
Professor Melanie Cao BSc (HUST, China); MA (HUST, China); MBA (Ottawa); PhD (UofT) Program Director, Master of Finance; Professor of Finance
View Professor Cao’s video
START YOUR MF JOURNEY
Scan the QR code or visit: schulich.yorku.ca/mf
TERM 1: FALL
Common courses:
• Intermediate Financial Accounting for Finance Majors
• Applications of Data Science in Finance
• Financial Management and Valuation
• Institutional Wealth Management
• Research Seminar Series**
• Professional Seminar Series**
TERM 2: WINTER
Common courses:
• Options, Futures and Other Derivative Securities
• Research Seminar Series**
• Professional Seminar Series**
Stream courses:
Capital Markets Stream:
• Investment Banking
• Fixed Income Securities
• Venture Capital and Private Equity
Financial Risk Management Stream:
• Fixed Income Securities
• Data Driven Finance with Python
• Machine Learning in Finance
TERM 3: SUMMER
Common courses:
• Fintech: Digital Transformation of Financial Services
• Corporate Financial Analysis
Special course:
• Consulting Study in Finance
Stream courses:
Capital Markets Stream:
• Analysis of Structured Products Using Python
• Financial Risk Management
Financial Risk Management Stream:
• Advanced Derivative Securities
• Enterprise-wide Financial Risk Management
Build lasting memories as part of an engaged and impressive student community. Develop your strengths, skills, and interests with a host of exciting co-curricular activities.
Choose from over 30 student-run clubs and organizations
From investment banking to sustainable enterprise to the Graduate Business Council, you’ll have the ability to pursue a broad spectrum of interests alongside your studies.
Engage with Our Community @SchulichSchool | #SchulichMF
Schulich’s student community fosters platforms for empowerment, representation, and belonging. Cultivate leadership skills and celebrate a rich culture of diversity by participating in student-led clubs such as the Black Graduate Business Network and Women in Leadership.
The Schulich Finance Association (SFA) supports graduate students’ interest in finance. Their mission is to assist members to prepare for a successful career in Finance through networking with alumni and finance professionals, panel discussions, and social events.
Strengthen your presentation skills and master the case method with opportunities to compete in events such as the CFA Ethics Challenge, the National Investment Banking Challenge, and the Women in Capital Markets Case Competition.
Pursuing a business degree is an important decision. At Schulich, we support you with an application experience that leaves you feeling informed and empowered. We take a holistic approach during the application review process and all components of the application are thoroughly evaluated.
CONNECT WITH OUR ADMISSIONS TEAM
Scan the QR code or visit: schulich.yorku.ca/grad-inquiry
View our alumni stories
Juhi Maru (MF ’22) Portfolio Analyst, Scotia Wealth Management
GPA
PREREQUISITE COURSES IN HONOURS PROGRAM
GMAT/GRE
ESSAYS
REFERENCE LETTERS
WORK EXPERIENCE
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
ADMISSIONS DEADLINES
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS — MASTER OF FINANCE (MF)
An undergraduate degree from a recognized post-secondary institution with a minimum B+ average in the last two full years (or equivalent) of academic work.
Candidates must possess a strong quantitative background 1
• GMAT, GMAT Focus or GRE (the GMAT/GMAT Focus/GRE online exam is acceptable).
• Waived for candidates who have completed the CFA Level 1 or higher or the FRM Part 1 or higher.
• The GMAT/GRE is waived for candidates who have obtained a B+ or higher in university-level calculus, statistics, algebra, or probability theory.
• Graduates from the Schulich School of Business BBA program with a B+ or higher GPA in the last two years of the program are also exempt from this requirement.
2 video, 2 written, 1 timed written
2 reference letters2
Recommended but not required3
Applicants must produce proof of language proficiency in one of the three ways listed:
• Proof of study completed in English: 2 years minimum (must be full-time study) at an accredited university in a country (or institution) where English is the official language of instruction.
• IELTS (academic test): 7.0 (minimum 6.5 on each dimension). The IELTS online Academic Test is acceptable.
• TOEFL: 100 (minimum 23 on each dimension). The TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition test is acceptable.
September 2026 Entry
Round 1: October 15, 2025
Round 2: January 21, 2026*
Round 3: March 18, 2026
Round 4: May 20, 2026
Round 5: July 22, 2026
*International students are strongly encouraged to apply by round 2 to allow for sufficient study permit processing time.
1 Applicants with undergraduate degrees from recognized institutions in technical disciplines such as mathematics, science, engineering, or economics, would automatically meet this requirement. Applicants may also demonstrate the required level of quantitative skills via the completion of at least two three-credit courses at recognized institutions from these fields: calculus, statistics, economics, linear algebra, probability theory or other quantitative courses.
Both courses must be 2000-level courses (i.e. second year courses) or higher.
2 One academic reference is recommended.
3 For applicants holding a 3-year degree, one year of full-time, post-graduate work experience is required.
OUR RECRUITMENT TEAM IS HERE FOR YOU!
• Connect one-on-one for a chat
• Attend one of our open houses offered during the year – Experience Schulich Virtual Open House – Experience Schulich In-Person Open House
• Visit us at one of the 100+ local and global events we join annually
• Drop-in virtually for Q&A, student panels, and application tip info sessions
Study in one of the most diverse cities in the world and take advantage of all that Toronto has to offer. Access the vibrant downtown core in just 30 minutes by subway. Enjoy restaurants, theatres, and distinct neighbourhoods there’s so much to explore in Toronto.
Most tech talent growth CRBE, 2022
210,000+ work in Toronto’s financial services sector — the largest financial center in Canada City of Toronto
47% of Toronto’s population was born outside of Canada Statistics Canada
13 th best city for international employees Mercer, 2024
7th Best City
in the world for Business & Investment
Brand Finance City Index, 2023
Over 180 languages and major dialects spoken in Toronto Statistics Canada
Schulich provides unique in-house programs, services, and a team of licensed immigration professionals to help international students navigate the transition to Canada and plan for the future.
• Study permit webinars
• Pre-arrival guides and transition support
• Mentorship program
• English language peer support
• New to Canada orientation
• Immigration information sessions
• 1:1 international student advising
• Social events
51% of Schulich graduate students are international
For more information scan the QR code or visit: schulich.yorku.ca/ international-student-services
A Schulich masters degree provides the flexibility to start your career internationally or pursue opportunities in Canada after graduation. Upon completing your degree, you can explore Canada’s immigration pathways, including the Post-Graduation Work Permit, to help you shape your ideal career.
Attend information sessions to learn more about relevant work permits and permanent residence options, or book individualized advising sessions with Schulich’s International Student Support Specialists.
We welcome the opportunity to discuss ways to finance your education and the return on investment our programs offer.
Visit: schulich.yorku.ca/financial-aid
Visit schulich.yorku.ca/financial-aid/loans for a list of partnered banks and preferred rates for domestic students in professional programs.
*Please contact the bank to get the maximum loan amount and to confirm the interest rate for your program of choice.
Incoming domestic students are invited to apply for entrance funding as part of the admissions process. Made possible through the generous support of our alumni and partners, our awards are both merit- and need-based, designed to recognize academic excellence while supporting students with financial need.
To learn more about funding opportunities for international students, please visit: schulich.yorku.ca/financial-aid/loans
Partnerships with:
“ At the Schulich School of Business, student success is one of our top priorities. Understanding that pursuing a business degree is never easy, we are dedicated to supporting our students in their academic journey through a wide range of scholarships, awards, and bursaries that not only promote diversity and inclusivity, but also to help ensure that a lack of financial resources is never a barrier for current and future Schulich students.”
Doris Mak Director, Student Records and Financial Aid
MF SCHOLARSHIPS
Scotiabank Global Scholars Award – Canada
Value: $15,000 | Available: 1
Sonja I. Bata Legacy Award
Value: $10,000 | Available: 1
InterRent REIT and CLV Group Adversity Award
Value: $5,000 | Available: 1
Schulich Entrance Award of Merit
Value: Up to $14,000
Available: Variable
For additional scholarship information please refer to the Schulich Awards publication at: schulich.yorku.ca/financialawards
Figures are based on the currently approved fee framework. Fees listed below are rounded to the nearest dollar and include tuition and supplementary fees. For full details on all current tuition, supplementary fees, and student health plans, visit the York Student Financial Services website: sfs.yorku.ca/fees . Fees are subject to change.
54,279 $ 56,907
* The full-time MF requires three terms of study to complete. ** Estimated Program Total is calculated by multiplying current tuition fees by the average number of terms required to complete the program. Tuition and fees reassessed annually.
1 Figures are approximations and intended only as a budget guide for students studying full-time. Costs are listed in Canadian dollars. Living expenses are estimated for 2026.
2 For more information on housing on campus, please visit yorku.ca/housing On-campus housing is available on a first come, first served basis. Students who are seeking accommodation on campus are strongly encouraged to submit their housing application after accepting their offer of admission.
3 For complete details about the University Health
yorkinternational.yorku.ca/uhip For more
Association (GSA) visit: yugsa.ca/health-plan
academic
4 Subtract UHIP cost for domestic student total.
The Centre for Career Design empowers students to develop and articulate the cognitive and interpersonal skills most valued by today’s employers skills that transcend industries and roles. They help students contextualize and communicate what they’re learning in the classroom through the lens of employability.
OUR TEAM CAN HELP YOU:
• Identify strengths
• Determine career objectives
• Develop and implement career plans
For more information, visit: schulich.yorku.ca/ccd
• Hone skills for career management
• Apply for jobs
• Prepare for interview and salary negotiations
Connect with leading organizations such as RBC, TD, Manulife, Purolator, P&G, Kraft Heinz, PepsiCo, and Amazon to learn about career opportunities.
Enjoy exclusive access to job opportunities posted on our career platform, Handshake.
Our personalized advising services are designed to help you navigate your career path with confidence. Benefit from one-on-one guidance, insights from experienced professionals, and opportunities to connect with alumni and industry leaders.
Benefit from skill-enhancing workshops aimed at making you career-ready like resume and cover letter writing, managing your online presence, and mastering the interview.
$ 84,800
Average
17 companies
47
Graduating
44%
CIBC
CIBC
ICICI
SAMPLE ROLES
Account
Cost Accountant
Financial Accountant
Commercial
When you graduate from Schulich, you become part of one of the largest business alumni networks in Canada.
UPON GRADUATION, JOIN A GLOBAL NETWORK OF OVER
37,000 active alumni in 90 countries
Participate in the Schulich Alumni Mentorship Program
As a student you can engage with alumni at events and conferences to gain key insights into the industries and careers that you’re passionate about.
Take advantage of life-long professional development activities, career management resources, and alumni events.
“Your program here at Schulich is just the beginning! Our Global Alumni Network is a tremendous asset — opening up connections, knowledge sharing and opportunities that extend far beyond graduation.”
Pamela Laycock (MBA ’89) President, Schulich Global Alumni Network
Enjoy exclusive access to Schulich’s Alumni Hub, which includes
Chapter Ambassadors in over
countries
“ The Master of Finance program has strengthened my financial acumen. It helped me to develop technical and soft skills that I employ regularly in my current job. Additionally, the award-winning faculty, alumni, classmates and Professional & Research seminars helped me in making life-changing connections.”
Harsh Doshi (MF ’21)
Audit Manager, Scotiabank
NEXT STEPS
• Visit us online: schulich.yorku.ca
• Join us for an event or information session.
Register at: schulich.yorku.ca/events
• Connect with our Admissions Team at: schulich.yorku.ca/grad-inquiry
Master of Finance
Program Start: September 2026
Full-Time | In Person | On Campus
Application Deadlines:
Round 1: October 15, 2025
Round 2: January 21, 2026*
Round 3: March 18, 2026
Round 4: May 20, 2026
Round 5: July 22, 2026
* International students are strongly encouraged to apply
by round 2 to allow for sufficient study permit processing time.
Valid for the 2026 cycle.
Driving Positive Change schulich.yorku.ca
Additional specialized Masters programs offered at Schulich
MAcc
Master of Accounting
MBAN
Master of Business Analytics
MHIA
Master of Health Industry Administration
MMAI
Master of Management in Artificial Intelligence
MMgt
Master of Management
MMKG
Master of Marketing
MREI
Master of Real Estate & Infrastructure
MSCM
Master of Supply Chain Management