National Finishing School
Career Pathway for High School Students
A joint initiative between the Ministry of Education (at both Central and State levels) and the Wadhwani Foundation.
Explore skills that make you employable, confident, and future-ready— at zero cost
Wadhwani Foundation
National Finishing School
Career Pathway for High School Students
Step into the real world with skills to make you confident and future-ready—at zero cost.
What is the National Finishing School?
The Wadhwani National Finishing School (NFS) helps high school students become truly career-ready, so you can step into life after school with confidence and direction. Whether you plan to go to college or start a micro-business, NFS helps you consider your career goals and get the skills you need to succeed.
Through hands-on learning and interactive sessions, you will:
- Explore possible careers based on your unique interests and plans
- Build communication, confidence, and collaboration skills
- Learn what freshers need to succeed in the workplace
- Get ready for interviews and practice introducing yourself
- Access local jobs and work opportunities
- Discover your strengths and explore entrepreneurship
Turn classroom knowledge into real-world success—and it’s completely free
What You’ll Learn?
Employability Skills
(75 hours)
- Evaluate possible careers based on your individual profile and educational plans
- Learn the important skills freshers need to succeed in the workplace
- Practice introducing yourself and answering interview questions
- Get access to local jobs
Business Skills
(25 hours)
- Learn the important skills that you need to start your own micro-business
- Develop an actual business plan for your business
- Understand the practical steps for getting started
What Makes NFS Different?
NFS is not a typical program. Here, you learn by doing:
- Interactive sessions—activities, not lectures
- Collaborate with teammates, just like in real jobs
- Masterclasses led by industry experts
- Career support—help desk, mentors, and community forums at your fingertips
Develop your business skills by building an actual business plan for your business, based on real opportunities in your community
What Do You Earn?
Certificates that count. Skills that stay.
At the end of your journey, you’ll earn:
- A Wadhwani Certificate in Employability Skills
- A Wadhwani Certificate in Business Skills
But more than certificates, you’ll have real outcomes:
- Access to unlimited 24×7 AI Interview Prep and Pitch trainers
- Peer and mentor recommendations you can share with employers
What Support Do You Get?
Human Services
- Expert Masterclasses
- Career Buddies
- Community Forums
- Help Desk
AI Services
- Expert Masterclasses
- Career Buddies
- Community Forums
- Help Desk
FAQ
How long does it take?
About 3 months, self-paced, 4–5 hours per week.
Is it really free?
Yes, fully funded by the Wadhwani Foundation.
Do I need to travel?
No. Everything is online, with engaging, real-time workplace activities.
What happens after I finish?
You’ll get certificates, career guidance, and opportunities to apply for jobs or launch your own micro-business.