Best MSc Finance to target European countries (not the UK) for finance as a non-EU?

Hi all, 

I am a Bocconi undergrad and currently taking a gap year, during which I will apply to business schools around Europe and then try to stay at the country I get the job in. 

Countries I would live in: Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany roughly in that order. Thinking about applying to HSG, RSM, SSE and maybe HEC. 

Would want to work in IB of course (but not necessarily) with an ideal exit to a HF. Planning to learn the language of whichever country I have to go study in during my gap year. 

GPA 27.5/30, GMAT 745, only a treasury internship at a commercial bank outside the EU. 

Also considering tuition costs.

14 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of MSc Finance programs in Europe (excluding the UK) that align with your goals:

Top Programs to Consider

  1. HEC Paris (France)

    • Strengths: Excellent placement in both France and London, with alumni in IB, PE, and even hedge funds.
    • Considerations: The program is more financial markets/instruments-oriented, which might not be ideal if you're leaning towards corporate finance or PE.
    • Language: A significant portion of the cohort is French, which could make networking challenging if you don’t speak the language.
  2. University of St. Gallen (HSG) (Switzerland)

    • Strengths: Highly regarded in Switzerland and Germany, with strong placement in IB and consulting.
    • Considerations: Switzerland is your top choice for living, and HSG offers a strong local network.
  3. Stockholm School of Economics (SSE) (Sweden)

    • Strengths: Balanced program with good placement in IB and finance roles across Scandinavia.
    • Considerations: Sweden is high on your list, and SSE is well-regarded in the region.
  4. Rotterdam School of Management (RSM) (Netherlands)

    • Strengths: Strong regional reputation, particularly in the Netherlands.
    • Considerations: Placement tends to be more regional, so learning Dutch could be advantageous.

Additional Insights

  • Language Learning: Your plan to learn the local language is a smart move, as it will significantly enhance your employability in countries like Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands.
  • Tuition Costs: Programs like RSM and SSE are generally more affordable compared to HEC Paris. HSG’s tuition is also reasonable, especially considering its strong reputation.

Program Rankings for IB Placement

  • Tier 1: HEC Paris, HSG
  • Tier 1.5: SSE, RSM
  • Tier 2: ESSEC, ESCP, EDHEC (if you’re open to considering other French schools).

Given your strong GMAT score (745) and decent GPA (27.5/30), you are a competitive candidate for all these programs. Prioritize HSG and SSE if you want to focus on Switzerland and Scandinavia, and consider HEC Paris for broader European opportunities.

Sources: Msc Finance ranking Europe, European Masters Rankings, MSF Class of 2018, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience)

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

Which languages do you speak? You're non eu? 

Hec > hsg > sse > rsm for prestige 

But if you want to work in English and stay in the country then rsm might be better 

 

I don't speak any EU languages, but I have a gap year + 1-2 years of more schooling so I can pick up a language by the time I graduate. RSM was good due to the english speaking thing, but I heard the job market in the NL is oversaturated currently with too many finance grads. Will have to look into it. Thank you for your time. 

 

Tbh if you go to HEC or similar, you can work anywhere in Europe. Already with a bocconi bachelor you have a big advantage. I'd recommend learning German till C1 for maximum chances. 

Yes the Netherlands market is more open to English speakers. However RSM F&I is a lower tier program, better known regionally so it's a bit risky tying yourself to only one market. The employer report is not great. Also being non EU the cost is really not worth it..

I'd look at only a select few mif/mim programs after a bachelor like bocconi. 

 

As a non eu:

HEC>HSG>RSM>SSE

Netherlands get country to find an english speaking job and getting the dutch nationality after 5 years!

 

Yeah, I heard the job market in NL is rough right now, that's why I have doubts about it. Thank you for your time. 

 

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