Help Me choose my university

Breaking into investment banking (IB) as an international student is challenging but far from impossible, especially if you're coming from a target school. Here's a breakdown based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Breaking into IB as an International Student:

• Challenges: Visa sponsorship is the primary hurdle. Banks often prioritize domestic students due to fewer legal and logistical complications.
• Opportunities: If you're at a target school like LSE, Warwick, or Bocconi, you significantly increase your chances. Networking, strong academics, and relevant internships are key.
• Relative Difficulty: It's harder than for domestic students, but not "close to impossible." Many international students have successfully broken into IB from these schools, especially with persistence and strategic networking.

2. Warwick vs. Bocconi:

• Warwick:

  • Strong placement in London IB, particularly for spring and summer internships.
  • Warwick Economics and related programs are highly regarded, with alumni at top BB and EB firms.
  • Downsides: Higher cost and the campus location (not in a major city) might limit networking opportunities compared to Bocconi or LSE.

• Bocconi:

  • Excellent reputation in Europe, particularly for finance and economics.
  • Strong placement in London, though slightly more skewed towards S&T roles than M&A/Restructuring.
  • Lower cost makes it a more economical choice.
  • Downsides: The competitive environment (curved grading) and the fact that it's in Italy, which might not align with your preference to work in London.

3. Cost Consideration:

• Bocconi is significantly cheaper than Warwick and LSE, which could be a deciding factor if finances are a concern. However, Warwick's strong placement in London IB might justify the higher cost if you can afford it.

4. US Options:

• While Purdue, IU Kelley, and UIUC Gies are solid programs, they are not considered targets for IB. If your goal is to work in London, these options are less aligned with your aspirations compared to LSE, Warwick, or Bocconi.

Recommendation:

1. If you get into LSE: Choose LSE. It has the best reputation and placement for IB in London among the three.
2. If it's between Warwick and Bocconi:
   • If cost is a major factor, go for Bocconi. It offers strong placement in London at a lower cost.
   • If you can afford Warwick and prioritize a more direct path to London IB, Warwick might be the better choice due to its strong alumni network and placement record.

Ultimately, your success will depend on how well you leverage the resources at your chosen school, network effectively, and secure internships early.

Sources: Bocconi vs. Warwick, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), Warwick Univeristy: Biggest current super target in London?, Target schools outside of the US?, MSc Finance Warwick vs Nova SBE vs ESSEC