First NY securites training program is 18-24 months and is very through. Traders over their are not scalping for ticks etc.
@mfbreakout Thanks you for the insight. I'm wondering what kind of compensation they give to pick the best of the best.
and unlike the previously listed prop firms eg T3 they are not looking for capital contribution thus barriers to entry are higher.
3 categories, 1) they pick you based on your education, experience trading, potential, no capital contribution and very hard to get into 2) they require S7 or S56 and substantial capital contribution 3) low capital contribution and probably no S7 or 56 most of the time firm name will end capital.
Check out TopStepTrader and their futures combine programs. Start with a free trial, then you can choose a simulator "combine" account for $35/month. When you're ready, then take one of their paid simulator combines. If you get a live account, then there is no maintenance margin requirement, only the equity that you build up over time. Keep in mind, however, that only the bigger combines have the higher odds of profitability, since you'll only have ten trading days to build up your equity in the live account, after which you are fully backed with maintenance margin as you "scale up" your equity.
There are lots of good firms on that list, however many have consolidated or gone out of business, so check each one accordingly. If you're willing to put up a capital contribution (bare minimum is $5k) and get your Series 56 license, then stick with the U.S. firms that are registered broker/dealers.
This link may come of use: http://www.elitetrader.com/et/index.php?threads/s7-remote-firms-besides-bright.285634/#post-4011067
I looked at TopStepTrader and actually talked to a few guys who went through their combine. It seems they are more about selling the combine than making money through trading. I also recently came across this company. If anyone knows anything about them please let me know, looks really interesting and straightforward. http://www.futuresprofile.com/
Some of the firms in New York City include Hold Brothers, T3, Avatar, Kershner. ScalperJoe is right that many firms have consolidated, it is a tough business.