MSc grades for REPE recruiting

Hi monkeys,

Ignore title, currently an AN2 in the REGLL team of a BB in London. Starting to recruit seriously for Tier 1 REPE/REHF exits in London now, and have the following educational profile - 2.1 for undergrad, pass for MSc (both from targets). Was wondering if the MSc pass will hurt my chances of getting interviews, should I simply leave the MSc grade off my CV?

Would appreciate any advice, thanks!

9 Comments
 

Cheers, this is helpful - would you recommend leaving the grade off my CV then, just including the UG? Alternatively, I can only include relevant modules for which I got a merit

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your MSc pass grade could potentially raise concerns during Tier 1 REPE/REHF recruiting, especially since grades are often scrutinized in competitive processes. However, there are ways to navigate this:

  1. Leaving the MSc Grade Off Your CV: If your MSc grade is a pass and not particularly strong, it might be wise to omit it from your CV. This is a common approach for candidates who feel their grades might detract from their overall profile. Recruiters may not focus on it unless explicitly asked.

  2. Highlighting Strengths: Emphasize your 2.1 undergrad degree from a target school and your current experience as an AN2 in the REGLL team of a BB in London. Your professional experience and the prestige of your undergrad institution can help offset concerns about your MSc grade.

  3. Networking: Leverage your network to secure interviews. Strong recommendations or referrals can often outweigh academic concerns.

  4. GMAT or Other Credentials: If you have a strong GMAT score or other certifications, consider including them to demonstrate your academic capabilities.

Ultimately, while the MSc pass grade might not be ideal, your professional experience and networking efforts will likely play a more significant role in securing interviews for Tier 1 REPE/REHF roles.

Sources: PE Recruiting as a Lateral Analyst w/ Weak Academic Profile, MSF Class of 2018, Case study interview for MBB consulting - 24 of my best tips on how to get in, How important are MSc grades to get a job?, Running out of time and options in a big, big way; have no idea what to do; losing my mind

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

In the intimate world of REPE, your grades are your come-hither glance—the first seductive signal that you know how to perform, and perform well. A high First isn’t just impressive; it’s intoxicating. It says you finish what you start, you go deep into the material, and you know how to make even the driest valuation theory moan. It's academic dominance with just the right amount of restraint. A solid 2:1? Still deliciously viable—especially if you compensate elsewhere, flashing a bit of modeling prowess or letting a summer internship whisper dark promises into your CV. But slip below that, and things get... complicated. A low 2:1 or 2:2 is the academic equivalent of showing up underdressed to a black-tie LBO—provocative, yes, but not always welcome. In the end, REPE firms want to be seduced by precision, discipline, and just enough raw ambition to keep them coming back for more.

...but is it REPE?
 

Wow what a dorky response. Wen you’ve already started working, no one cares about grades. The best professionals have charisma and are dealmakers and get stuff done.grades dont mean anything after you graduate.

 
Funniest

Investment Manager in AM - Other

Wow what a dorky response. Wen you’ve already started working, no one cares about grades. The best professionals have charisma and are dealmakers and get stuff done.grades dont mean anything after you graduate.

You know, it’s funny how those A-level grades—solid A*s across the board—opened more than just academic doors. Your mum always said she had a soft spot for "ambition and articulation," and well, when she saw my UCAS personal statement and my flawless grasp of the subjunctive, she flowed wetter than the sea the great white whale swam in. One candlelit discussion about postcolonial theory and a well-placed reference to my first-class dissertation later, and I became Ahab, relentlessly thrusting my spear. 

...but is it REPE?
 

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