Let us be straight: the free EFRAG VSME template exists, it is legitimate, and for a confident user with the data to hand it is enough. We are not going to pretend otherwise. What follows is where a blank spreadsheet of cells tends to slow people down, and what a guided version adds on top of the same VSME structure.
What the free template gives you
- The full VSME Basic Module structure, for free.
- A place to enter every datapoint.
- No cost and no signup.
Where a spreadsheet leaves you stuck
| What matters | Free EFRAG Excel | Guided flow |
|---|---|---|
| Knowing what each field means | A hundred cells, no guidance | A plain line per datapoint |
| Seeing what is missing | You find out when it is rejected | A gap list of every required field left blank |
| Something you can send | A raw spreadsheet | A clean, branded report you print to PDF |
| Both languages | One template, one language | Answer and read in English or German |
| Staying current | You track EFRAG revisions yourself | The structure updates for your next report |
When to use which
If you know the standard, have your numbers ready, and are comfortable handing over a spreadsheet, the free template is fine. If you want guidance per field, a clear list of what you still need, and a report you would actually be happy to send to a bank, the guided flow earns its place. The first report is free, so you can compare without committing.
Common questions
Is the guided flow just a nicer spreadsheet?
It uses the same VSME Basic Module, but it explains each field, flags what you have missed, and produces a report you can send rather than a raw grid of cells.
Do I have to pay to try it?
No. The first report is free, so you can produce one and compare it to the spreadsheet before deciding.
Try the guided flow free
Same VSME structure as the free Excel, plus per field guidance, a gap list, and a report you can send. First report free.
Start free