Top 7 MBA possible for valuation analyst at big 4?

All types go to top MBA programs. Some admits make sense, and others make you wonder what type of blackmail they had on the admissions staff.

If you can go directly into finance without having to go through an MBA program (unless you get a huge scholarship), do it. Do not drop $150k plus lost salary if you can reach your goals through another avenue.

If you get money to go, depending on the school and amount of money offered, maybe you consider. I'd apply to all avenues and see what shakes out.

It really depends. It may be an uphill battle, but it's all about how you differentiate yourself from the pack of other Big 4 applicants.

It all depends, do very well on the gmat, ideally 740+, get strong ECs and advance rapidly through the ranks. You may also want to consider trying to lateral to a MM IB if the chance arises.

Yes. Don't discount valuations work. I know two people from a less prestigious valuations group that went to a good PE shop and into fixed income buy side work.

There was an HBS kid a few years ago who worked as an auditor at KPMG before applying to business schools. I think the reason we do not see many Big Four people at top MBA programs is because CPAs do not need an MBA. A few months ago I had a superday for Big Four auditing (backup plan to IB), and none of the partners at the event had an MBA or any desire to get one.