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🌍 US & Europe · Vesting & exerciseVesting schedule
Also called: vesting timeline
In one line
The timetable that sets exactly how much of your grant vests, and when — classically four years with a one-year cliff, then monthly.
In plain English
Your schedule is the calendar of when each slice becomes yours. The standard is 25% after one year, then the remaining 75% monthly over three more years, but companies vary it.
If you were explaining it to a 5-year-old
It's the chore calendar on the fridge that says exactly how many chocolate squares you earn each month, and when.
Why it matters when you sell
Your schedule tells you how much you can act on today versus what's still locked up — essential for timing any secondary sale.
Related terms
Put it to use
When you're ready to go deeper, there's an optional Equity Toolkit and Report.
Sources
A general market-practice term. See how we define and source the glossary in our methodology. General information, not advice.
Educational information only — not financial, tax or legal advice, and not an offer to buy or sell any security. Definitions are general; your own documents and local law govern your situation. PrivateTechShares is independent and not a broker or marketplace.