I'm an international student, considering MSF programs in the US. I have been waitlisted at Emory which clearly is the best of the lot. Got offers from the rest, with tuition costing around 57k at BC, 43k at Nova, 42-47k at UofR, and 35k at Babson.
My goal is to work in quantitative portfolio management. Which of these programs gives me the best shot at it?
BC is what I'm leaning towards - better brand and the program has a quantitative track. But the recent outcomes are concerning.
I'm considering UofR too, as I got a good offer from them. Not considering Nova or Babson due to lack of international students and poor employment outcomes, respectively.
If Emory calls, I will most probably go there. It's very expensive and I don't expect a scholarship being on the waitlist. But the outcomes seem worth it.
Does this plan make sense, or am I missing anything?
For reference, here's my profile -
My undergrad major was in Accounting and Finance with a 3.67/4 GPA, I have my CFA L2 this May, and I have 1 year of work ex each at BofA as a Operations Analyst, and at a startup as a Investment Research Analyst (working with top mutual funds in India).
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your options and advice:
Emory (if admitted): Emory is indeed the strongest program among your options, especially for your goal of quantitative portfolio management. Its brand, alumni network, and placement outcomes make it worth the investment, even without a scholarship. If you get off the waitlist, this should be your top choice.
Boston College (BC): BC is a solid choice, particularly with its quantitative track aligning with your career goals. However, as you noted, recent placement outcomes have been concerning. If you choose BC, you'll need to actively network and leverage the program's alumni base to secure opportunities in portfolio management.
University of Rochester (UofR): UofR's Simon MSF program has a good reputation, especially for international students. It offers strong placements in F500 and finance roles, and the cost is competitive. While it may not have the same brand recognition as BC, it could be a good value option if you’re willing to put in the effort to network and target your desired roles.
Villanova: While Villanova has decent placements, it seems you’ve ruled it out due to the lack of international student representation and weaker outcomes for your specific goals. This aligns with WSO insights, which suggest Villanova is better suited for regional placements and less competitive for international students aiming for top-tier finance roles.
Babson: Babson’s MSF program is generally not as competitive for finance roles, and its employment outcomes are weaker compared to the other programs on your list. Given your goals, it makes sense to deprioritize this option.
Recommendation:
Your plan seems well thought out, and your profile (CFA L2, relevant work experience, and strong GPA) positions you well for success in any of these programs. Just ensure you maximize networking opportunities and leverage alumni connections, particularly if you choose BC or UofR.
Sources: MSF or MBA for my experience level?, MSF Class of 2018, Vandy MSF vs. Villanova MSF for IB, MS Finance - University of Rochester, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/didnt-make-it-to-a-target-now-what?customgpt=1
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