ESSEC MIF VS ESCP VS WARWICK

I have an offer with a merit scholarship for the ESSEC MIF and a 60% scholarship for the Warwick MIF. Rejected by LSE, waiting to hear from ESCP and HEC. I need to decide on ESSEC soon, as the deadline for the deposit is in a few days. Barring HEC, which is the obvious standout choice, which of these is the best option for London IB/PE recruiting? Is ESSEC worth it, if it's my only choice? For context, I have 2 London IB internships and one year of work experience in private equity investor relations in my home country. If I don't do a master's now, it will be hard for me to move to an advanced role even within my home country, as analyst-level jobs are rarely available without a master's. London remains my first choice still.

7 Comments
 

For London IB/PE recruiting, here's how the options stack up based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. ESSEC MIF: ESSEC is a strong program, particularly for finance, and is generally considered slightly above ESCP. However, its location outside of Paris (Cergy) can be a drawback for networking opportunities. If you have a merit scholarship, it makes the program more attractive financially. While ESSEC is well-regarded, it is not as strong as HEC or LSE for London IB/PE recruiting but still places decently in London, especially if you leverage your prior experience and internships.

  2. Warwick MIF: Warwick is a top-tier UK program outside of London and Oxbridge. It has a solid reputation for IB placements in the UK, and the 60% scholarship makes it a cost-effective option. However, it may not carry the same prestige as ESSEC in Europe overall. If your goal is London, Warwick's proximity and network in the UK could be advantageous.

  3. ESCP: If you receive an offer from ESCP, it could be a strong contender. ESCP benefits from its central Paris location, which facilitates networking and internships. It is generally considered slightly below ESSEC but still a solid choice for finance roles in London.

Key Considerations:

  • Scholarships: The financial aspect is crucial. A 60% scholarship at Warwick makes it a very competitive option, especially if you aim to work in London.
  • Location and Networking: Warwick's UK location might give you an edge for London recruiting, while ESSEC and ESCP are better positioned for Paris-based opportunities.
  • Your Profile: With two London IB internships and PE experience, you already have a strong foundation. Any of these programs could help you secure a role in London, but the choice depends on how much weight you place on cost, location, and program reputation.

Recommendation:

If HEC does not come through, Warwick with the 60% scholarship is likely the best option for London IB/PE recruiting. It offers strong placement opportunities in the UK and is cost-effective. However, if you prefer a more European-focused program and are willing to invest more, ESSEC is a solid alternative.

Sources: MSc Finance Warwick vs Nova SBE vs ESSEC, Msc Finance ranking Europe, HEC Paris to IB at London?, 2018 UK Target Uni - MSc - for FO jobs: put your POV

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

Escp or HEC are worth it. Then second tier is Essec, but the 60% scholarship is quite good

 

Essec is fine. If you can get into HEC or ESCP then go for those obviously. Warwick is not good for masters. 

 

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