Job prospects for a non-EU after a Msc?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your profile has several strong points that could make you competitive for landing a role in Corporate Finance in Europe after completing a Master's in Finance. Here's a breakdown of your prospects:

Strengths:

1. Work Experience: Your 2.5 years of M&A experience at KPMG is highly relevant and valued in Corporate Finance and Investment Banking. This demonstrates technical skills and deal exposure, which are critical for these roles.
2. Korean CPA License: This adds credibility to your financial expertise and could be a differentiator, especially for firms with a focus on the APAC region.
3. Multilingual Skills: Proficiency in English, Korean, and French (with plans to reach DELF C1) is a significant advantage, particularly for roles in Europe where multilingual candidates are often preferred.
4. Military Service: While not directly related to finance, this demonstrates discipline, leadership, and resilience, which are qualities valued by employers.
5. Target Schools: Applying to top-tier programs like LSE and ESSEC is a smart move. These schools have strong placement records in Europe, particularly in Investment Banking and Corporate Finance.

Challenges:

1. Non-EU Status: As a non-EU candidate, securing a work visa can be a hurdle. However, schools like LSE and ESSEC often have strong career services and alumni networks that can help you navigate this process. Additionally, countries like Germany and France have relatively straightforward post-study work visa options for graduates of their universities.
2. Engineering Background: While your Bachelor's in Engineering is not directly related to finance, your M&A experience and CPA license mitigate this concern. The Master's in Finance will further bridge any perceived gap.

Recommendations:

1. Target Schools with Strong Placement: LSE and ESSEC are excellent choices, but you might also consider other top European programs like HEC Paris, Bocconi, or St. Gallen (HSG), which have strong reputations and placement records in Corporate Finance.
2. Leverage Career Services: Make full use of the career services at your chosen school, including networking events, resume reviews, and mock interviews.
3. Internships: Aim to secure a summer internship during your Master's program. This is often the most direct route to a full-time offer in Europe.
4. Language Skills: Reaching DELF C1 in French will significantly enhance your employability in France and other French-speaking regions.
5. Networking: Start building your network early by connecting with alumni and professionals in your target firms and regions.

Conclusion:

Your profile is strong, and with the right Master's program and strategic efforts in networking and internships, you have a solid chance of landing a role in Corporate Finance in Europe. However, be prepared to navigate visa challenges and ensure you leverage every resource available at your target school.

Sources: Is target MSc Finance still possible in my situation? (Bocconi, HEC, LSE, HSG....), Q&A: Deloitte S&O -> F500 Corp. Strategy -> M7 -> MBB, Graduating MSF - no job, Corporate Finance Q&A with accountingbyday, BJM85, STorIB, and djfiii, On the off chance Investment Banking doesn't work out for me