LBS MiM (full tuition) vs. Bayes MSc. Finance (full scholarship) - Which one do I take?
Hi all,
Background and context:
1. 28YO - 2YOE FP&A at JNJ - Aiming to break into IB/M&A or MBB
2. Got offer with full scholarship to Bayes Business School, Corporate Finance Masters program.
3. Got offer to LBS MiM ; the tuition is 52k GBP. I would have to assume the full amount.
LBS:
Pros - Its obvious the brand prestige of LBS is world class - especially in the GCC where I'm from (think Qatar/Saudi/UAE). Moreover, the MiM program is fairly new and many MBAs are upset at their Bus. Schools because they've shifted their attention and resources to curate the MiM programs. This signals its importance will continue, if not rise. The students are very career-driven and extremely competitive, a mind-set that I share.
Cons - I have to pay the full scholarship from my savings.
Bayes:
Pros - Bayes is considered a semi-target (at best) in London. Its very well-known in the city, less-so in mainland Europe and the GCC. My scholarship covers the entire tuition, so I'm essentially attending for free. The Corporate Finance degree literally has M&A and PE courses embedded in the curriculum.
Cons - Again, Bayes is less known in mainland Europe and the GCC (where I'm from). The school name-changed from Cass and have to catch up with brand recognition in global perspective. I read online (take with a grain of salt) that its mostly rich international kids who do not take their time very seriously, whereas LBS is very competitive and everyone is career-driven.
TLDR; Would it be an emotional/idiotic decision to dish out 52kGBP to upgrade to T1 from T1.5/T2?
Theres a strong (and speculative) argument that the career trajectory shift could make up for that tuition in the long-term. Especially in my home country, where brand and prestige is highly regarded.
bump
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown to help you decide:
LBS MiM (Full Tuition Cost - 52k GBP)
Pros:
Cons:
Bayes MSc Finance (Full Scholarship)
Pros:
Cons:
Key Considerations:
Career Goals: If your primary goal is to break into IB/M&A or MBB, LBS offers a stronger platform due to its prestige, network, and placement record. However, Bayes’ specialized curriculum in Corporate Finance could also prepare you well for these roles, especially in London.
Financial Impact: At 28, the financial burden of 52k GBP is a critical factor. While LBS could provide a higher ROI in the long term, the immediate cost might limit your flexibility post-graduation. Bayes allows you to graduate debt-free, which is a significant advantage.
Regional Impact: In the GCC, where brand prestige is highly valued, LBS holds a clear edge. If you plan to return to the GCC, the LBS name could open more doors and command higher respect.
Long-Term Perspective: The speculative argument about career trajectory is valid. LBS’ brand and network could accelerate your career growth, potentially offsetting the tuition cost over time. However, this depends on your ability to leverage the LBS network and opportunities effectively.
Recommendation:
If you can comfortably afford the 52k GBP tuition without jeopardizing your financial stability, LBS MiM is the better choice for its prestige, network, and long-term career impact, especially in the GCC. However, if the financial burden is too significant, Bayes MSc Finance is still a solid option, particularly for breaking into London’s finance scene.
Ultimately, weigh the financial strain against the potential career boost and decide based on your risk tolerance and long-term goals.
Sources: European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), Q&A: 2nd Year Analyst at McKinsey in Europe, LBS vs UCL vs Imperial for IB, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT
LBS don't even think about it. Still not guaranteed anything in the current market but gives you a shot and a lasting pedigree on your CV forever.
I appreciate the straight forward take. I agree with you that it's not guaranteed benefit, nothing is guaranteed, but I don't wanna look back in 10 years and think "what if" - even though I believe Bayes is underrated.
LBS is miles ahead of Bayes so from a pedigree POV, not comparable at all. Would say if you can raise money for LBS you should take it, it will take you further and you will be in class with smart people vs the mediocre (at best) cohorts at Bayes.
So technically I could fund the entire tuition myself. But I'd rather do half + half loans so I have buffer and no liquidity stress. Maybe US student loans; can refinance/defer/with 6 months grace. Thats my current thought.
Insane how people advise someone to take on 50K more debt for a masters degree. Especially in the current market, where that brand cant even guarantee a high paying job.
can you elaborate on your opinion more?
I have zero debt - so this will be the only debt ill take on.
I'm thinking of funding half with cash and half with US student loans.
I'm US/GCC national, LBS is highly regarded in both places. I'll likely work in either one after graduation, and the job market there for MBB/IB is better than London. Bayes is a semi-target but only in London - people don't know it in GCC/US.
As others have said, LBS and don’t look back. I also took out a loan to do one of these LBS / LSE MSc and it was the best decision I made. As others have said it’s still no guarantee but the difference on the CV is significant
Quae placeat blanditiis sunt molestias voluptatem. Eum sint corporis qui culpa sapiente quasi. Consequatur sunt ipsam dolor autem quasi et quia mollitia. Amet est distinctio incidunt ullam beatae.
Adipisci quas officiis ipsum ratione adipisci asperiores. Hic aliquid et aperiam quia. Et cupiditate facere ut.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...