Private Equity requirement for B-School?

Posting again here as WSO keeps moving to a different forum. As with many private equity firms, the fund I am recruiting for (LMM, $600m fund) has a 2-3 program and then would like me to get my MBA. However, if I perform well the door is open to stay on after.

Let’s say I perform at a high level during those 2-3 years, is it truly a requirement? Or more of an out if they decide they do not want you back long-term.

Thanks in advance.

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It's very fund-dependent if they require it or not, and they are usually straightforward about whatever their stance is - i.e. disclose it while recruiting associates, as you are experiencing

If they say they want you to get an MBA, there is almost certainly not a path without it. Firms will be clear if there is a no-MBA path, sounds like there is not here. If you let one person get directly promoted without an MBA, that's essentially the end of your MBA requirement

Some people lateral if they are not interested in MBA, but that's not the easiest thing in the world. If you 100% do not want an MBA I would keep looking and specifically tell HHs you are looking for a career-track role.

 

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