Optiver will be launching the Optiver & Utrecht University Trading Academy, an exclusive program open to Utrecht University students. Led by Optiver industry expert Robbert Pullen, the program introduces students to the foundations of financial markets and options theory, progressing to hands-on algorithm development and testing in Python. Participants will work on Optiver’s simulated exchange, Optibook, combining academic concepts with practical industry application.

You’ll walk away with:

• A deep understanding of financial markets, options theory and algorithmic trading – no financial background required!
• Direct experience on a simulated market exchange, offering a glimpse into what it’s like to work as a trader at a leading global market maker.
• The skill to design and optimise a Python trading algorithm based on real financial market data.
• A certificate from Optiver, awarded upon successfully finishing the Trading Academy and participating in the final algorithmic trading competition.

Course overview

• Market making theory: Foundations of market making, including options theory, evolving to practical data analysis and Python algorithm design.
• Hands-on practice: Build and optimise Python-based trading algorithms in Optibook, our real-time simulated exchange.
• Competitive challenges: The course concludes in a competitive event where you’ll deploy your Optibook algorithms against those of your peers. This event replicates the high stakes and rewards of real trading, giving you insights into the day-to-day life of a trader. An exciting prize awaits the winning team!

Eligibility criteria

• A registered student at Utrecht University
• A strong aptitude in mathematics
• Basic coding proficiency – participants will use Python for this challenge
• No prior backgrounds in financial markets is required

Application procedure

1. Complete the online application form ( linked below).
2. After you submit your application, you will receive an email inviting you to Optiver’s Online Assessment Platform to complete the OAP test—a 45-minute assessment that must be completed within 3 days. Regardless of your application date, all assessments must be submitted by EOD 18th March.
   Please check your Spam or Junk folder if you do not receive it. Should any issues arise, or if you do not receive the assessment email, please reach out to our recruitment team via email for assistance and include ‘Utrecht University Optiver Trading Academy’ in the subject line to help us quickly identify the matter.
3. You will hear back about your application decision by March 28

Key dates

• Course duration: April 7 – April 28
• Schedule:
  7 April 17:15 – 20:00
  14 April 17:15 – 20:00
  21 April 17:15 – 19:00
  28 April 17:15 – 19:00

Application deadline: Wednesday 25 March, 12:00 CET

Apply below for this incredible opportunity to enhance your knowledge and get practical skills in the world of algorithmic trading.