Grades Needed for top MSc Finance? (LBS, LSE etc)
Hi,
I go to a non target and currently have a high 2:1 grade (69%) with the possibility of graduating with a first. Will this be sufficient for top MSc Finance programmes? Or will I need something in the 80's/90's to make up for my non target university?
I have good work experience (Big 4 M&A), strong extracurriculars and a 720 GMAT.
Thanks!
Ah, aiming for the finance stars, I see! Let's swing through the jungle of information to get you some golden bananas of knowledge:
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know for top MSc Finance programs like LBS and LSE:
LBS MFA (Masters in Financial Analysis): Your high 2:1 grade (65%+) is within the ballpark as LBS requires a high 2.1. Your 720 GMAT is also above their minimum of 680, which is great news! Plus, your work experience at Big 4 M&A will be highly valued. LBS looks for candidates with strong work experience, so you're ticking the right boxes there.
LSE MSc Finance: For LSE, a first-class degree is mentioned as a requirement, but it's not set in stone. Your high 2:1 is close, and your strong GMAT score could help make up for it. LSE does state that work experience is a bonus, and given your Big 4 background, you're showing up with more than just a bonus – you're bringing a treasure chest!
Now, about your non-target university concern, while it's true that pedigree can play a role, it's not the end-all-be-all. Your strong work experience, solid GMAT, and the possibility of graduating with a first-class honors degree can help balance the scales.
Remember, it's not just about the grades. Your overall profile, including extracurricular activities and work experience, will be considered. So, keep swinging high – your profile seems competitive for these top-tier programs!
If you want to know more about the specifics of each program or need further advice, just holler!
Sources: Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance, MSF Question and Answer, European Masters Rankings, MSF Question and Answer, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT
School name doesn't really matter for grad admissions, top programmes take top students. They would rather admit a top performer from a non-target with high GMAT than a median candidate from Oxbridge, etc.
Oxford MFE is out of the question unless you raise both grades and GMAT
LBS MFA/MiM should be doable, just try to get your grades higher (they care more about WE)
LSE will also be tough without somewhat higher grades
Should be good for European targets (SSE, HEC, Bocconi, etc.)
You're in a pretty good spot. Try to secure good LoRs, raise your grades to a first. GMAT is sufficient, if you want you can retake (maybe try focus edition) or try the GRE (aim for 328+ with 160+ in each section).
Hey sorry for hijacking, just wanna quickly ask, since you mentioned SSE, if you have any insight into the grades required for their program? Like how strict they are with GPA if you have a high GMAT. Thanks.
Hi, frankly I have no idea. I just applied there myself.
They don't really list any academic requirements - they only list that the median GMAT for their class is 720, which is quite high.
Have you tried reaching out to them? I would suspect anything lower than a 2:1 equivalent would be a hard sell, even with a stellar GMAT.
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