Best MSc route for London IB with my profile: RSM F&I value play vs LSE/LBS/Bocconi?

Hi all,

I’m trying to decide which master’s route gives me the best realistic shot at breaking into London IB, ideally M&A or ECM, and would appreciate advice based on my specific profile:

• Nordic
• BSc International Business Administration from RSM
• Languages: English + one Nordic language; no Dutch, German, French, or Italian
• Work experience:
  • Finance internship
  • Boutique consulting internship in my home country
  • IB internship at a global middle-market boutique in my home country
• I will have a 2-year gap between bachelor’s and master’s due to military service, IB internship(s), and GMAT preparation
• Goal: London IB, preferably M&A or ECM
• Backup / stepping-stone idea: get a Dutch IB internship first, then try to lateral / recruit into London

My main question is about my specific situation. Would RSM MSc Finance & Investments be the best value-for-money route if I want to try for a Dutch IB internship first and then move to London? Or, given my profile, would paying up for LSE/LBS/Bocconi/HEC/St. Gallen materially improve my London chances? I know LSE/LBS are top but expensive. Also aware Dutch IB is tough without Dutch (except maybe ABN/Rabo).

Also, how would the 2-year gap be viewed if it was due to military service, internship(s) and GMAT study?

Thank you!