Hi monkeys, if you have a strong profile with BB/EB internships, a target UG (2.1), and are at a target MSc, how important is it to get a distinction? Is a merit viewed unfavourably or is even a pass fine (someone at Oxford told me a pass is all that matters?)
Would appreciate any advice - thanks!
| +27 | Whats the point in even trying to get into this industry | 6 | 15h |
| +24 | Thoughts on unseriously applying to jobs/interviewing? | 4 | 5d |
| +17 | Am I cooked? | 5 | 2d |
| +15 | Frustrations with Lateraling? | 1 | 4d |
| +9 | finally made the transition Corporate Strategy (10+ YRS) to IB | 4 | 8h |
| +9 | Feeling Lost | 4 | 18m |
| +9 | What Services Do Animation Outsourcing Companies Typically Offer? | 0 | 3d |
| +9 | Final-Year with no offers | 4 | 1d |
| +9 | Senior Summer vibes | 1 | 6d |
| Choosing between | 8 | 19h |
Career Resources
Get instant access to lessons taught by experienced private equity pros and bulge bracket investment bankers including financial statement modeling, DCF, M&A, LBO, Comps and Excel Modeling.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, MSc grades can play a significant role depending on your background and the school you attend. Here's the breakdown:
Target School Advantage: If you're at a target MSc program, grades might be less critical compared to someone from a non-target. Employers often weigh the prestige of the institution heavily.
Distinction vs. Merit: While a distinction (75-85%) can certainly strengthen your profile, a merit (60-74%) is generally acceptable, especially if you have a strong undergraduate record (2:1) and relevant BB/EB internships. However, a pass might raise concerns unless you have exceptional work experience or networking connections to offset it.
Non-Target Considerations: For non-target MSc candidates, higher grades (distinction) are often necessary to stand out, as recruiters may scrutinize their academic performance more closely.
Recruiter Perception: Some recruiters may prioritize your overall profile (internships, networking, and undergrad performance) over MSc grades, but consistently strong academic results can only help.
In summary, while a distinction is ideal, a merit is generally fine for IB recruiting, especially if you have a strong overall profile. A pass, however, might be viewed less favorably unless you have other standout qualifications.
Sources: How important are MSc grades to get a job?, Q&A: Non Targ -> BB Coverage Group -> Incoming MM PE, Q&A: From Non-Target to Coverage IB at BB, How important is it one come from a rich family and be younger with regard to being hired as an Investment Banker?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/job-search/ibd-sa-after-graduation?customgpt=1
Quis natus omnis mollitia amet. Harum repellendus ullam itaque et est. Minima iusto velit aspernatur ut sed eius et provident. Minima earum molestias et velit fuga est quis. Vel facilis autem et ipsum.
Dolorem ut architecto aut illo dolores odio. Beatae possimus qui commodi velit. Quia qui vitae asperiores ea quia at. Sed totam quo rerum vel eum quod. Omnis omnis maxime ea iste doloribus.
Ipsum voluptatibus in reprehenderit perferendis. Error saepe aperiam aliquid iure eos eligendi. Velit illum illo aliquid velit. Nobis corporis et autem dolores debitis provident. Perspiciatis neque aut repudiandae soluta architecto dolorem sit at. Delectus voluptate doloremque tenetur nisi numquam.
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...