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🏆 Funding and careers · Advanced · 9 min read · Lesson 41 of 42 · Free with an account

FTMO explained: challenge rules, 1-step vs 2-step and how to prepare (2026)

FTMO is one of the best-known prop trading firms. Traders pay for an evaluation, and those who pass trade an FTMO account and receive a share of the profits. Here are the main rules as published in 2026. Always confirm the current rules on FTMO's own website.

Updated October 2026

2-step challenge

RulePhase 1 (Challenge)Phase 2 (Verification)
Profit target10%5%
Maximum daily loss5% of initial balance5% of initial balance
Maximum loss10% of initial balance10% of initial balance
Minimum trading days44
Time limitNone (as of 2026)None (as of 2026)

After passing, profit split starts at 80% and can rise to 90% with the scaling plan, and the challenge fee is refunded with the first reward, according to FTMO's published terms.

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Questions people ask

Can traders in Kenya, South Africa or Nigeria join FTMO?

FTMO accepts traders from many countries, but availability and payment methods change. Check FTMO's site for your country.

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Educational content only, not financial, investment or tax advice. Trading forex and CFDs carries a high risk of losing money. Look up any term in the trading glossary.