(AUS) I am considering transferring from Commerce/Law at USYD.

Hi everyone,

I am in my first year of BCom/LLB at USYD and I am considering moving interstate. My ultimate goal is Investment Banking ("high finance") and I instinctually selected Commerce/Law because I heard that it was Australia's tried and tested pathway into Investment Banking. I graduated with a 99.75 ATAR and I also wanted to "maximise" the benefits of my ATAR. I live locally, but I feel the need to leave home for personal reasons. Also, I am not really enjoying the Law part of my degree, so I do not know if I can stick it out for 5 years. I have done a bit of research and I am now considering the BAFE degree at UQ - and I would probably stay at a residential college. At least with the BAFE degree, it is specifically designed for finance. But am I jeopardising myself if I were to drop Commerce/Law? I really need advice here. 

Thanks

4 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:

  1. Commerce/Law vs. BAFE for Investment Banking:

    • Commerce/Law is indeed a traditional and respected pathway into Investment Banking in Australia, particularly because of the prestige associated with law degrees and the analytical skills they develop. However, if you're not enjoying the law component, it might be challenging to sustain motivation over the long term.
    • The BAFE (Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics) at UQ is highly regarded for finance-specific careers. It is tailored for students aiming for roles in high finance, including Investment Banking, and offers a focused curriculum that aligns with your career goals.
  2. Impact of Transferring:

    • Transferring to a finance-specific degree like BAFE is not necessarily a disadvantage. What matters most is excelling academically, building a strong network, and gaining relevant experience (e.g., internships, finance clubs, case competitions).
    • UQ has a solid reputation in finance, and its alumni network can be leveraged for opportunities in Investment Banking. However, Sydney-based universities like USYD and UNSW might have a slight edge in terms of proximity to major financial hubs and networking opportunities in Sydney.
  3. Residential College Experience:

    • Moving to a residential college at UQ could provide a supportive environment and help you build a new network. This can be particularly beneficial if you're seeking independence and a fresh start.
  4. Key Considerations:

    • If you decide to transfer, ensure you maintain a strong GPA and actively participate in finance-related extracurriculars (e.g., investment clubs, networking events).
    • Consider the long-term implications of your decision. While BAFE is finance-focused, the versatility of a Commerce/Law degree might offer broader career options if you decide to pivot later.

Ultimately, the decision should align with your personal happiness and career aspirations. If you're confident that finance is your passion and you're not enjoying law, transferring to BAFE could be a strategic move. Just ensure you remain proactive in networking and gaining relevant experience to maximize your chances in Investment Banking.

Sources: Big Law (M&A) to IBD Associate, Affordability vs Better Opportunities, Banking to Law?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Ehh, as a BAFE grad, I wouldn't make the switch. Although the courses and cohort are good, it doesn't make up for the location and access to firms, networking events, etc. It's also getting saturated with the cohort now in the 200's each year - likely to lessen from next year as the ATAR requirement's going up to 99.5. Personally, if I had my time again, I wouldn't do BAFE, I'd go do Com/Law or Com/Econ at USyd or Melb

 

Really? Was it just less access to opportunities in Brisbane that made you rather want to do Com/Law at USYD? Also, just out of curiosity, what would you estimate is the demographic of people doing BAFE percentage-wise (white, asian, etc.)??

 
Most Helpful

Ut nemo explicabo alias rerum. Repudiandae consectetur omnis non. Sunt sunt quae natus in enim. Earum dolorem esse sed aut et.

Hic eum totam corrupti est delectus. Praesentium ratione qui non. Ipsam ipsam nulla et repudiandae animi iure quas. Temporibus veniam et repellendus temporibus.

Career Advancement Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.7%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (46) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (80) $150
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (73) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
6
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
7
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
10
Mimbs's picture
Mimbs
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”