MBA - From PE Associate to IBD

Hi all,

I am currently a private equity professional (real estate) in London. I originally come from another European country and moved to London for professional opportunities. 

As I am currently reaching my 4th year of professional experience, I was thinking about the next step for my career. After doing multiple researches and talking with MBA graduates, I have a strong desire to target US MBA to switch into Real Estate IBD (BB, EB) and stay in the US as long as possible. However, I have a few considerations in mind:

• I would have to take a huge debt ($150k+ in my opinion) to attend an MBA if I don't get a scholarship.

• I would come with my significant other that won't be able to work in the US I believe during my student time, but she seems ok with it.

• As an international, I would need to secure an H1-B visa to be able to stay in the US afterward. I can't go come back to Europe as salaries are far lower and I would be struggling with my loan. I heard that for some, it is really difficult to break into IB when being international and secure a visa at the same time.

Is there anybody in the same situation that can help me in my decision or give testimony about peers that have been through the whole process?

Many thanks!