Currently, I'm a junior as an international student interested in investment banking, might consider applying early decision because the mathematical business major provides 3 years of stem opt. I also have Canadian citizenship so tn visa can help, however, considering the tighter visa situation I think it would make sense if I applied to U.S schools directly. Thanks for all the help fellow monkeys:)
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, Wake Forest University (WFU) could be a reasonable option for your goals, especially if you're considering the Mathematical Business major with its 3 years of STEM OPT. This would provide you with additional time to work in the U.S. post-graduation, which is a significant advantage for international students aiming for investment banking roles.
However, it's important to weigh a few factors:
Visa Considerations: Your Canadian citizenship and eligibility for a TN visa are strong advantages. The TN visa is relatively straightforward for Canadian citizens and could make your transition into the U.S. job market smoother compared to relying solely on OPT or H-1B sponsorship.
WFU's Placement in Investment Banking: While WFU has a solid reputation, it may not have the same level of placement power in top-tier investment banking roles (e.g., NYC at EB/BB) as other schools like Duke or UNC Kenan-Flagler. If you're targeting elite firms, you might want to consider schools with stronger pipelines into those roles.
Early Decision Commitment: Applying Early Decision to WFU is a binding commitment. Make sure you're confident in your choice and that WFU aligns with your career aspirations. If you're unsure, it might be better to apply Regular Decision to keep your options open.
Alternative Schools: If you're open to other U.S. schools, consider those with stronger alumni networks and placement records in investment banking. Schools like Duke, UNC Kenan-Flagler, or even top Canadian schools (e.g., Rotman, Ivey) could be worth exploring.
In summary, WFU could be a good fit if you're drawn to the Mathematical Business major and the STEM OPT benefits. However, if your primary goal is to maximize your chances of landing a top-tier investment banking role, you might want to research schools with stronger placement records in that field.
Sources: Ask Natalie from Accepted about Business School Admissions, Wake Forest University?, HBS 2+2 / Wharton Deferred - applying from Europe, Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, MSF Class of 2017
seen a couple wake forest alum at gugg nyc not much anywhere else might want to aim for other schools
Thanks for the comment, my grades are ok but not the best, might aim for BC as well cuz I heard MCAS students get similar opportunities to CSOM.
if cost isn’t a problem, apply directly to target/semi, makes recruitment a lot easier
yeah cost isn't
perfect then, again try for all the top recruitment schools, get into those recruitment clubs, and most banks will sponsor you
ik tons of international student placing at gs, evercore, bofa this year from my school
only thing is, i also know people stuck in banking cause buyside firms won’t sponsor, or the lottery hb1 or something like that
but that’s further down the line
Great to know, of course I'm looking at target schools as well but I'm just curious, let's just say I only have offers from U.S. non-targets and Ivey/Queens, would you say it's better to go to the U.S. school or study in Canada? Thanks :)
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