FTMO Evaluation 2026: Challenge Process, Targets & How to Pass

FTMO Evaluation at a Glance in 2026

FTMO Evaluation 2026 uses a streamlined 1-step structure across all account sizes. This single-phase model replaced earlier multi-step formats and removed time limits entirely, allowing traders to focus on consistent execution rather than deadlines.

Participants target a 10 percent profit while staying inside a 3 percent daily loss limit and 10 percent end-of-day trailing drawdown. Minimum trading days are set at zero, giving flexibility for different trading styles.

For the complete breakdown of rules, payouts, and strategy tips, see the full FTMO in-depth guide.

Lune's prop firm directory tracks these exact parameters across 47 firms and updates automatically when FTMO changes rules.

Challenge Phases and Structure

FTMO operates a 1-Step evaluation model for its funded account programs. This structure routes traders through a single evaluation before granting access to simulated capital.

1. Account Selection and Sign-Up: Traders choose an account size ranging from $10,000 to $200,000. Pricing starts at $79 for the smallest size and scales to $999 for the largest. All plans use a one-time fee with no monthly charges.
2. 1-Step Evaluation: You trade under firm rules until you hit the 10 percent profit target. Daily loss is capped at 3 percent with an end-of-day trailing max drawdown. There is no time limit, and the minimum trading days requirement is zero. The Best Day Rule limits any single day to no more than 50 percent of total profits.
3. Funded Account Activation: Once the target is reached, the account converts to funded status. Profit splits reach up to 90 percent, and first payouts include a full fee refund. News trading becomes restricted on Standard accounts, and the same drawdown and consistency rules remain active.

Key differences appear after funding. Evaluation accounts allow unrestricted news trading and overnight positions, while funded accounts enforce tighter risk controls to protect capital. The shift often surprises traders who relax discipline once the profit target is cleared.

Pass rates remain low across the industry. Estimates place overall success between 5 percent and 12 percent, with most failures occurring in the evaluation phase due to overtrading or rule breaches.^[4] FTMO has funded more than 200,000 traders historically, yet only a small fraction maintain long-term consistency and receive ongoing payouts.^[5]

Traders comparing evaluation platforms should also review Lune's prop firm directory. It aggregates live challenge data across 47 plus firms and includes direct links to detailed rule breakdowns for FTMO and similar providers.

Profit Targets and Requirements by Account Size

FTMO structures its 1-Step evaluations around clear, percentage-based targets that scale with account size. Understanding these numbers helps traders plan position sizing and risk levels before starting.

Profit Targets

Every FTMO 1-Step challenge requires a 10 percent profit target. The table below shows the exact dollar amounts and risk limits for each account size available as of June 2026.

Traders must hit the profit target without breaching the daily loss or overall drawdown limits. The 3 percent daily limit and 10 percent maximum drawdown remain consistent across all sizes.

Time Limits and Minimum Trading Days

FTMO removed time limits from its evaluations. There is no deadline to reach the profit target. The minimum trading days requirement is set at zero for every account size listed above.

This structure rewards consistency rather than speed. Traders can take as long as needed while staying inside the risk rules. The Best Day Rule still applies, capping any single day at no more than 50 percent of total profits in the challenge and funded stages.

Industry data shows pass rates for prop firm challenges often fall between 10 and 25 percent in the first phase. Patience and strict risk management improve the odds of reaching funded status.^[1]

Lune's prop firm comparison tool tracks these exact rules across more than 47 firms and updates automatically when FTMO changes parameters. This helps traders match account sizes to their risk tolerance before paying evaluation fees.

FTMO Challenge Cost and Account Options

FTMO prices its 1-Step evaluations as one-time fees based on account size. These fees cover the full challenge and give access to the simulated trading environment.

The $10,000 account delivers the strongest value at roughly 0.79 cents per dollar of capital. Larger accounts scale the fee upward but keep the same 10 percent target ratio.

Traders should match account size to their typical position sizing and risk tolerance. Starting smaller lets you test the rules with lower financial commitment before scaling up.

Full details and rule updates appear on the official FTMO site. Always confirm current pricing before you register.

How to Pass the FTMO Evaluation

Passing the FTMO 1-Step evaluation requires a risk-first approach that respects the 3 percent daily loss limit and 10 percent maximum drawdown while hitting the 10 percent profit target. The firm removed time limits, which helps traders focus on consistency rather than speed.

Position Sizing Relative to Daily Drawdown

Calculate your max risk per trade at 0.5 to 1 percent of the account balance. On a $50,000 account the daily loss limit equals $1,500, so a single trade should risk no more than $500. This buffer protects against normal losing streaks and keeps you inside the trailing drawdown rules.

Realistic Daily Goals and Trade Frequency

Target 0.3 to 0.5 percent profit per trading day instead of chasing larger moves. With a minimum of four trading days required, this pace reaches the profit target without triggering the Best Day Rule that caps any single day at 50 percent of total profits. Focus on high-probability setups only and stop trading once the daily goal is met.

Avoiding Consistency Rule Breaches

Spread wins across multiple days and avoid oversized positions after early profits. FTMO data shows many traders fail verification after passing the challenge because they increase risk once funded status feels close. Treat every phase like a personal account with strict daily limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to pass the FTMO evaluation?

The FTMO evaluation consists of a single 1-step phase with no maximum duration. Traders can take as long as needed while respecting daily loss and drawdown limits. Most complete the process within 30 to 60 days when following disciplined risk rules.

What is the FTMO profit target?

FTMO sets a 10 percent profit target for the 1-step evaluation.^[1] This target must be reached while respecting the maximum daily loss of 3 percent and overall loss of 10 percent. The profit target applies to the initial account balance before any scaling.

How much does the FTMO challenge cost?

FTMO challenge fees range from $79 for a $10,000 account to $999 for a $200,000 account. The fee is one-time and is refunded upon successful completion and first payout from the funded stage.^[6] Pricing is listed on the FTMO website and may include occasional promotions.

Is FTMO one-step or two-step?

FTMO currently uses a 1-step evaluation process.^[2] The single phase requires meeting the profit target under the stated risk parameters before advancing to a funded account.

Does FTMO offer instant funding?

FTMO does not provide instant funding programs. Traders must complete the 1-step evaluation to qualify for a funded account with profit splits starting at 80 percent.^[2] Instant funding alternatives exist at other prop firms but are not part of the FTMO model.

What happens after I pass the FTMO evaluation?

After passing the evaluation you receive a funded account with the same size and risk rules. You keep up to 90 percent of profits through periodic payouts while FTMO covers any losses beyond your initial fee.^[1] The account can also be scaled based on consistent performance.