Day Trading Summer Program | UCLA & Michigan 2026

Day Trading in Today’s Futures Market

A pre-college trading program at UCLA and the University of Michigan.

What This Program Is

A Real Introduction to Trading — Not a Classroom Simulation

Developed in partnership with NYSE trader Peter Tuchman and industry professional David Green, this immersive program gives students a rare, real-world look at futures trading.

Students don’t just learn theory — they experience how markets actually work. From reading charts and understanding price movement to applying trading strategies and managing risk, participants build practical skills used by real traders.

Through guided sessions, live demonstrations, and hands-on simulations, students learn how to think, analyze, and make decisions under pressure — developing both the technical knowledge and mindset required to navigate today’s markets.

UCLA Program Michigan Program

What You’ll Experience

Step Into the World of Real Trading. This program is designed to simulate the rhythm and intensity of real markets. Students don’t passively learn — they actively participate, building skills through application, repetition, and guided feedback in an environment that mirrors how trading works in practice.

Think Like a Trader

Learn how to read markets, understand price movement, and apply proven trading strategies used by professional traders. Students build a strong foundation in technical analysis and decision-making that can be applied beyond the classroom.

Practice in Real Market Scenarios

Work through real market case studies, analyze live charts, and execute simulated trades in a structured, risk-free environment. Students gain hands-on experience applying strategies in conditions that mirror real trading.

Build the Trader Mindset

Trading success isn’t just about strategy — it’s about discipline. Students develop focus, emotional control, and decision-making skills that help them stay consistent under pressure.

Earn a Funded Trading Opportunity

Take on the APEX evaluation challenge — the same real-world test used by traders globally to earn access to funded accounts. Students leave with a tangible goal and a pathway to continue trading beyond the program.

Learn from Real Traders and Industry Experts

Gain insight from experienced traders and industry professionals, with real-world experience in markets, risk, and decision-making.

Peter Tuchman

NYSE Trader & Market Commentator

Peter helped develop the program, bringing over 35 years of experience on the New York Stock Exchange and shaping the real-world perspective behind the curriculum.

Get Summer 2026 Info

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Contact Information

Program Dates

UCLA (2 Weeks)

July 5 – July 17 2026
July 19 – July 31 2026

University of Michigan (1–3 Weeks)

July 5 – July 11 2026
July 19 – July 26 2026

Why This Program Stands Out

Learn from real traders — Gain insight from Wall Street professionals with real market experience
Hands-on trading experience — Analyze charts, test strategies, and simulate real trades
Built for high school students — Structured learning with guided support and feedback
Pathway to funded trading — Access APEX evaluation and continue trading beyond the program

Learning Outcomes:

Understand the mechanics of futures markets, including how contracts work, how to read charts, and how to speak the language of professional traders.
Apply proven trading strategies and risk management techniques to real market scenarios, including live chart analysis and simulated trades.
Develop the discipline and psychological framework that separates successful traders from the rest — managing emotion, uncertainty, and decision-making under pressure.
Gain a firsthand understanding of what professional day trading looks like as a career, with direct access to active traders and a pathway to continue trading beyond the program through the APEX Trader Funding platform

UCLA
University of Michigan

FAQs

Where is the program held?

The program takes place on campus at UCLA and the University of Michigan, giving students the opportunity to learn in a real university environment while experiencing campus life.

When does the program take place?

Sessions run throughout July 2026, with multiple start dates available at each campus. Students can choose the session that best fits their summer schedule.

How long is the program?

Program length varies by location. UCLA offers a two-week immersive experience, while the University of Michigan offers flexible one, two, and three-week options.

Do students need prior experience in trading or finance?

No prior experience is required. The program is designed for beginners and introduces core concepts in a clear, structured way, while still offering depth for students who want to explore further.

Futures Trading at UCLA and the University of Michigan

Learn how markets really work from experienced traders.

Apply Now