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| FTMO Challenge |
If you're a trader looking to scale your career without risking your own capital, you've probably heard of FTMO — one of the most popular proprietary trading firms in the world. The FTMO Challenge is the first step in becoming a funded trader, and while it’s known for its difficulty, it’s also known for its rewards.
In this article, we'll break down exactly what the FTMO Challenge is, how it works, and how you can pass it on your first try with discipline, strategy, and preparation.
What Is the FTMO Challenge?
The FTMO Challenge is a two-step evaluation process designed to test your skills and discipline as a trader. If you pass, you get access to a funded account where you can trade with up to $200,000 in capital.
Here’s how the process works:
1. FTMO Challenge (Step 1)
- You must reach a profit target (e.g., 10%) within a 30-day period.
- You must not hit the daily loss limit (usually 5%) or the maximum loss limit (typically 10%).
- You need to trade for a minimum of 10 trading days.
2. Verification Phase (Step 2)
- You must hit a lower profit target (e.g., 5%) over a 60-day period.
- The same loss rules and minimum trading days apply.
Once you pass both stages, you become an FTMO-funded trader and can start earning up to 90% profit split from your trades.
Why Passing on the First Try Is So Important
While you can retry the challenge as many times as needed (by paying again), passing on your first try saves money, time, and motivation. Every failed attempt is not only a setback but also a psychological hit. That’s why proper preparation is key.
1. Understand the Rules Inside and Out
Before placing your first trade, make sure you fully understand:
- Drawdown limits: Going over even once means instant disqualification.
- Trading days: You must trade for at least 10 days — no shortcuts.
- Lot size restrictions (for certain accounts): Avoid violating the terms.
- Weekend holding: Make sure your trading style fits within allowed timeframes.
Many traders fail the challenge not because of bad trades, but because they broke a rule they didn’t fully understand.
2. Use a Proven Trading Strategy
If you’re treating the FTMO Challenge like a gamble, you’re almost guaranteed to fail. A successful challenge demands a reliable trading system that you’ve tested and refined.
Key qualities of a solid FTMO strategy:
- Clear entry and exit rules
- Strong risk-reward ratio (e.g., 1:2 or higher)
- Backtested over at least 6 months of data
- Fits your trading personality (scalping, day trading, swing trading)
Avoid switching strategies mid-challenge. Confidence comes from consistency.
3. Focus on Risk Management
Passing the FTMO Challenge is less about big wins and more about avoiding big losses. Stick to strict risk management rules:
- Risk 0.5%–1% per trade
- Use stop-losses without fail
- Never revenge trade or overleverage
Even if your strategy is profitable, poor risk management can blow up your account quickly — especially with FTMO’s tight loss limits.
4. Trade Only When Conditions Are Optimal
Don’t force trades just to reach the profit target faster. One bad setup can ruin your challenge.
Tips:
- Trade only when your edge is clear
- Avoid major news releases unless part of your strategy
- Stay patient — the 30-day window is enough if you wait for quality setups
You don’t need to trade every day. You just need 10 trading days to qualify.
5. Use a Trading Journal
Keep track of every trade, win or lose. Journaling helps identify patterns in your behavior and strategy performance.
Record:
- Entry and exit points
- Trade rationale
- Emotions during the trade
- Mistakes and lessons learned
This reflection can help you adjust mid-challenge and avoid repeating costly errors.
6. Simulate the Challenge First
Before paying for the real FTMO Challenge, try a demo simulation with the exact rules. Many traders fail because they overestimate their discipline.
Doing a dry run helps you:
- Build confidence
- Spot weaknesses
- Test your risk management in a high-pressure environment
If you can’t pass the simulation, you’re likely not ready for the real thing yet.
7. Control Your Mindset
The FTMO Challenge is as much a mental game as a trading one.
Stay calm by:
- Sticking to a daily routine
- Taking breaks after trades
- Avoiding FOMO and impulsive entries
Remember, passing the challenge is about surviving and thriving, not hitting home runs. Patience and discipline will outperform aggression every time.
Final Thoughts
Passing the FTMO Challenge on your first try is 100% possible — but only if you treat it like a professional trader would. Understand the rules, stick to your system, and protect your capital at all costs.
This is your chance to trade with serious capital and build a real career in trading. Prepare wisely, and that first funded account could be just weeks away.
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