Just got accepted to HSG (St-Gallen) Masters in Accounting and Corporate Finance.
I'm wondering how well this school, and this program places in London.
Also, do recruiters make a difference between the flagship MBF and the MACFIN?
Also, I'm entering this program with very little relevant experience. Will it be very difficult for me to find a SA?
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, St. Gallen (HSG) is a strong brand in Europe, particularly in Switzerland and Germany, but its international recognition, especially in London, may not be as robust as schools like HEC Paris or Bocconi. However, HSG's reputation is still solid, and its alumni network can be a valuable asset.
Regarding the MACFIN vs. MBF programs, the MBF (Master in Banking and Finance) is generally considered the flagship program for finance at HSG and is more recognized by recruiters targeting roles in investment banking (IB). The MACFIN (Master in Accounting and Corporate Finance) might not carry the same weight for IB roles, especially in competitive markets like London or Hong Kong. Recruiters may differentiate between the two programs, with a preference for MBF graduates for IB roles.
Entering the program with limited relevant experience could make securing a summer analyst (SA) role more challenging, as IB recruiting is highly competitive. To improve your chances: 1. Leverage the HSG brand: Network aggressively with alumni in IB roles, especially those in London or Hong Kong. 2. Gain relevant experience: Pursue internships or part-time roles in finance during your studies to build your resume. 3. Prepare thoroughly: Use resources like WSO's Investment Banking Interview Prep to excel in technical and behavioral interviews. 4. Target regional opportunities: If London or Hong Kong feels out of reach initially, consider starting in Switzerland or Germany, where HSG has a stronger presence, and then transitioning later.
While it may be more difficult without prior experience, a focused strategy and leveraging HSG's resources can still help you break into IB.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/master-in-finance-hec-paris-vs-bocconi-vs-st-gallen?customgpt=1, Is target MSc Finance still possible in my situation? (Bocconi, HEC, LSE, HSG....), European Masters Ranking | 2020, HEC Paris to IB at London?
Without relevant experience it will be tough and Mbf students will usually have an advantage as well. HSG is solid but not a head turner in London.
Imo start smaller and aim for SA later.
Imo no big difference between MBF and Macfin for recruiting. I know many from both programs that place very well in MM but also BB London (e.g., HSG sends ~12 people to JPM SA each year)
The bigger problem for you is your lack of experience. There are enough German Macfin and MBF guys that have pre experience in (U)MM. So you most likely need to start smaller, e.g. small cap or lower mid market in London. After that you can aim for the bigger names.
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