Worth taking debt for uni?
So I was recently accepted to a top target in the UK (Oxbridge, LSE). However as an international student, I’d have to take up about 75k-100k euros worth of loans to study there. With a recession looming this year, is it worth taking up a loan to study there? Or should I go to a debt free semi-target in the EU (SSE, RSM, NHH) and take up debt later for my masters? I am a non-European student.
Taking on debt for a top target university like Oxbridge or LSE can be a worthwhile investment, especially if your goal is to break into high finance or other competitive industries. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key considerations:
Reputation and ROI:
Debt vs. Semi-Target:
Recession Concerns:
Geographical Advantage:
Long-Term Perspective:
Recommendation:
If you can manage the debt responsibly and are committed to leveraging the opportunities at Oxbridge or LSE, it’s likely worth the investment. However, if the financial burden feels overwhelming or you’re uncertain about your career path, starting at a semi-target and pursuing a master's later could be a safer option.
Sources: 2018 UK Target Uni - MSc - for FO jobs: put your POV, UK Target Universities Discussion Thread, Is it valuable to take on debt to go to an Ivy League or other prestigious university, to get onto Wall Street?, Target schools outside of the US?, What was the point of Ivy League? Major Regret and Depression
Really, it ultimately depends on your financial situation and whether you're comfortable taking on that level of debt. If your goal is IB, it’s definitely possible to break in from a semi-target like SSE, RSM, or NHH, especially if you’re proactive, network hard, aim for top internships, and build a strong CV.
That said, for UK recruiting specifically, going to a top target like Oxbridge or LSE will give you an edge, especially for spring weeks and early pipelines. If it's Oxbridge specifically, speaking as someone who did undergrad at Oxbridge—it’s an experience that’s genuinely unique and I would say is worth it.
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