ESSEC MiM (Intensive) vs ESADE vs IE vs EDHEC — Best for Breaking into IB (London)

For breaking into M&A in London, here's how the programs stack up based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. ESSEC MiM Intensive Track:

   • Strengths: ESSEC is generally regarded as one of the strongest schools for IB in Europe, with a solid reputation and alumni network in London. The Grande Ecole diploma is highly respected, and the ability to specialize in finance is a plus.
   • Concerns: The Intensive Track is new and untested, which might make recruiters less familiar with it compared to the traditional MiM or MiF programs. However, since it targets candidates with work experience, it could still be competitive for IB roles, especially if you leverage the alumni network effectively.

2. ESADE MiF:

   • Strengths: ESADE has a strong reputation in Spain and a growing presence in London, with alumni at both bulge brackets (BB) and elite boutiques (EB). The program is well-regarded for its finance focus and international exposure.
   • Concerns: While ESADE places well in London, it might not have the same level of recognition or alumni density as ESSEC in the UK market.

3. IE MiF:

   • Strengths: IE is highly ranked and has a strong global brand. It offers a diverse cohort and good placement in finance roles, particularly in Spain and Latin America.
   • Concerns: For London IB, IE might lag slightly behind ESADE and ESSEC in terms of alumni presence and placement strength.

4. EDHEC MiF:

   • Strengths: EDHEC is known for its strong finance curriculum and is particularly well-regarded in France. It has a good track record of placing students in financial markets roles.
   • Concerns: EDHEC's placement in London IB is more limited compared to ESSEC and ESADE. It is often seen as a tier below these schools for international IB roles.

Key Comparisons:

• ESSEC MiM Intensive vs Traditional MiF: The traditional MiF might have a slight edge for IB recruiting due to its established reputation and focus. However, the MiM Intensive could still be competitive, especially if you leverage ESSEC's alumni network and career services.
• ESADE vs IE vs EDHEC for London IB: ESADE likely has the strongest placement in London among the three, followed by IE and then EDHEC. ESADE's alumni network in BB and EB roles gives it an edge.
• Country-Specific Strengths:
  • Spain: ESADE > IE for local recruiting, as ESADE has a stronger reputation in Spain's finance sector.
  • France: EDHEC is strong domestically but less competitive internationally compared to ESSEC.
  • UK: ESSEC > ESADE > IE > EDHEC for London IB placement.

Recommendation:

If your primary goal is M&A in London, ESSEC MiM Intensive is likely your best bet, given ESSEC's overall strength in IB placement. However, if you are concerned about the newness of the Intensive Track, ESADE MiF would be a strong alternative, especially with its growing alumni presence in London.

Sources: European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), HEC MIM or ESADE MIF + CEMS MIM, September 2020, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs. ESCP MiM vs. IE MIF, European Masters Rankings, Msc Finance ranking Europe