Transaction Services Training

Financial modelling

Practice DCF and LBO financial models in Excel

DCF and LBO models sit at the heart of every M&A transaction — and a Transaction Services analyst is regularly expected to understand, critique and feed into these models. This module provides structured practice cases on DCF and LBO modelling in Excel: built from scratch using real financial data, with step-by-step video corrections and reusable professional templates.

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500+ candidates trained
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Rated 4.9 / 5 · 500+ reviews

Verified

Julien N.· 4mo ago

Landed the job at EY Transaction Services

The case studies are clear, realistic, and built real confidence. I genuinely feel the training played a key role in helping me land the job.

Our candidates are hired at

EYDeloitteKPMGPwCEight AdvisoryForvis MazarsBDOAccuracyGrant ThorntonAlvarez & MarsalRoland BergerSquarenessEYDeloitteKPMGPwCEight AdvisoryForvis MazarsBDOAccuracyGrant ThorntonAlvarez & MarsalRoland BergerSquarenessEYDeloitteKPMGPwCEight AdvisoryForvis MazarsBDOAccuracyGrant ThorntonAlvarez & MarsalRoland BergerSquareness
The real interview test

Knowing what a DCF is is not enough — recruiters test whether you can build one

Most candidates know the definition of a DCF and an LBO. Very few can build a complete model from scratch, justify every assumption and defend their valuation under pressure. This module closes that gap with practice cases on real financial data.

Key figure

80%

of candidates in M&A and PE interviews fail Excel modelling tests — not from lack of theoretical knowledge, but from lack of structured practice on real cases.

What you learn

Practice DCF and LBO financial models in Excel

Étape 1
modules 1

DCF model: full build from a blank sheet

You build a complete DCF model from a blank spreadsheet: projecting free cash flows over five years from the income statement and balance sheet, computing…

Étape 2
modules 2

LBO model: debt structure and return analysis

You build a complete leveraged buyout model: entry price and financing structure (senior debt, mezzanine, sponsor equity), income statement and free cash flow…

Étape 3
modules 3

Trading comps and multiples analysis

You build a trading comparables table for a real sector: gathering financial data (EBITDA, net income, revenue), computing EV/EBITDA, EV/EBIT, P/E and P/S…

Measurable outcomes

500+ candidates prepared, 100% in internship or full-time role. Transaction Services Training is a proven method.

0+Candidates preparedsince the programme launched
0%Students in internship or full-time roleafter completing the programme
0h+Hours of contenton the Transaction Services Training platform
0+Partner companiesthat trust us for recruiting
Who we are

Our team

Learn more about us

Our team is made up of former Transaction Services analysts and managers, including Big 4 recruiters. They share directly what is evaluated in the interview — because they have been on the other side of the table.

The honest comparison

Why Transaction Services Training and not another programme?

TS TrainingRecommended
Success TS
Trainy
Training You
100% specialised in Transaction ServicesOnly one
Full case studies with detailed corrections8+1–21–2
EBITDA / Net Debt / NWC adjustments documented150+A fewRare
Reusable TS Excel models4+Limited
Mock interview with Big 4 recruiterIncluded
Team responsive within the hourIncludedLimited
Updated monthlyYesOccasional
One-time price, no subscriptionYesSubscriptionSubscriptionSubscription

Comparison based on publicly available offers as of 2025. Data subject to change.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a DCF model used for in Transaction Services?
    In Transaction Services, the DCF contextualises QoE adjustments: a TS analyst must understand how EBITDA restatements impact the target's value. Knowing how to build a DCF lets you discuss valuation with M&A teams and clients, and anticipate buy-side interview questions.
  • Do you need LBO modelling knowledge to work in Transaction Services?
    LBO mastery is not required for a junior TS role, but it is strongly valued for transitions into PE or M&A boutiques. Several Big 4 recruiters also test LBO understanding to assess financial maturity. This module prepares you for those questions.
  • What Excel files are provided in this module?
    Three fully auditable professional Excel templates: a 5-year DCF model with terminal value and EV/equity reconciliation, an LBO model with debt waterfall and sponsor IRR, and a trading comparables table with LTM normalisation. All files start blank — you build them from scratch.
  • What level is required to start this modelling module?
    A foundation in accounting and financial analysis is needed — you should be able to read an income statement and balance sheet. Discounting logic is explained in the module before being applied. Beginners in financial modelling are welcome.
  • Is this module useful for M&A boutique interviews?
    Yes. M&A boutiques systematically test modelling in interviews. This module is calibrated to the formats expected in these firms, not academic templates. Corrections explicitly flag the most penalising errors in a boutique test.
  • How long does it take to master a DCF and LBO model in Excel?
    Most candidates master a complete DCF build in 6 to 8 hours of practice. The LBO requires 8 to 12 additional hours. The module is designed for evenings over 2 to 3 weeks, compatible with preparation alongside an internship or job.
  • Are the DCF and LBO models updated to current market standards?
    Yes. Models integrate current practices — IFRS 16 treatment in the DCF, earn-out in the LBO structure, post-year-end LTM normalisation. You receive all updates automatically with your lifetime access.

The next TS offer is yours.

500+ candidates prepared their interviews with this programme. Those who landed the role have one thing in common: they worked the cases before walking into the room.

Satisfied or we find a solution. One-time payment, lifetime access.