CFA/PRM to offset extremely poor GPA for MFin program

Hi,

I have an extremely poor undergrad GPA (2.19) in engineering but have tried to make up for it by completing PRM and 2 levels of CFA (3rd possibly depending on the result in aug). With a work ex of 2 years in corporate finance as a business analyst, I am looking to do MFin from a top university in the US to build on my certifications in finance.

I am yet to give GMAT/GRE, but even if I absolutely crack it (which I think I would be able to), will I still be doomed because of my gpa?

7 Comments
 
Best Response
amod

Hi,

I have an extremely poor undergrad GPA (2.19) in engineering but have tried to make up for it by completing PRM and 2 levels of CFA (3rd possibly depending on the result in aug). With a work ex of 2 years in corporate finance as a business analyst, I am looking to do MFin from a top university in the US to build on my certifications in finance.

I am yet to give GMAT/GRE, but even if I absolutely crack it (which I think I would be able to), will I still be doomed because of my gpa?

What city are you located in? How much free time do you have?

(I also have a terrible undergrad GPA in engineering.)

 

I live in Mumbai, India. After taking time out to study for GMAT/GRE, I should still have a couple of hours left over everyday.

I was hoping I would be able to explain my low GPA (to some extent) in the app and draw attention to the quantitative nature of PRM. It covered all math topics listed on MIT's website as required background and I did pretty well on that (I got >90% in its quant exam). I don't know if it will be sufficient though.

 

I think MIT will still be a stretch, but you should be competitive at all the other programs with a strong GPA. Just make sure you clearly explain why such a low GPA in your essays.

I'd suggest you try and find work first though. Having level 2 done is impressive and should help you land a decent gig. Might not need an MSF at all.

 

Thanks for the reply.

I do plan on changing jobs now that I have cleared CFA level 3 as well. However, I work in the cash management domain of an IT firm and lack of relevant work experience is turning out to be a huge stumbling block in my job search.

So, I think the best way to make use of my certifications is to leverage them in MFin applications. I would want to work abroad for a couple of years, so as an international student, I think Europe is out of the question (though I thought IE business school's MIAF was very interesting).

Also, how about Princeton? Should I apply with GMAT around 750?

 

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