MFin Choice: London Schools vs European Schools

Hey all, 

I am currently in the process of evaluating different MFin programs. My goal is to work in London IB (if possible BB or EB), so how do the following programs place in London and how would you evaluate my chances:

-  / LSE A&F / HEC Paris MFin / Imperial MFin  / Bocconi MFin / HSG MaccFin 

Some background about me: 

-B.S.c with major in finance (Top 15-20%; with distinction) 

-Internship experience in SC PE; SC IB (à la Carlsquare, Stifel) ; MM IB (à la RJ, DC Advisory, HW)

-Some business-related extracurriculars in student clubs

-German

Thanks for any insights - highly appreciated! 

9 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about the placement and evaluation of the MFin programs you're considering:

Program Placement in London IB:

  1. LSE A&F (Accounting and Finance)

    • Placement: Strong placement in IB and MBB (Management Consulting). Less competitive than other LSE programs but still highly recognized.
    • Requirements: Similar to other LSE programs but slightly less competitive.
  2. HEC Paris MFin

    • Placement: Great placement both in France and London, with alumni in MBB, PE, and IB.
    • Requirements: High academic standards and strong work experience are valued.
  3. Imperial MFin

    • Placement: Good placement in IB, especially in London.
    • Requirements: Strong academic background and GMAT scores are important.
  4. Bocconi MFin

    • Placement: Similar to HEC for Italy, with strong placement in IB and MBB.
    • Requirements: High academic performance and relevant work experience.
  5. HSG MaccFin (University of St. Gallen)

    • Placement: Known for strong placement in IB and consulting roles, particularly in German-speaking countries and London.
    • Requirements: Strong academic performance and relevant internships.

Evaluation of Your Profile:

  • Academic Background: Your B.S.c with a major in finance and being in the top 15-20% with distinction is a solid foundation.
  • Internship Experience: Your internships in SC PE, SC IB, and MM IB are valuable and relevant for MFin programs.
  • Extracurriculars: Business-related extracurriculars in student clubs add to your profile.
  • Language Skills: Being German can be an advantage, especially for programs like HSG MaccFin.

Recommendations:

  • LSE A&F: Given your strong academic background and relevant internships, you have a good chance here.
  • HEC Paris MFin: Your profile aligns well with the requirements, and you should have a strong chance.
  • Imperial MFin: Your profile is competitive, and you should consider applying.
  • Bocconi MFin: Your academic and internship experiences make you a strong candidate.
  • HSG MaccFin: Your German background and strong profile make this a good fit.

Additional Tips:

  • GMAT: Ensure you have a competitive GMAT score, as it is a common requirement.
  • Networking: Leverage your internships and extracurriculars to build a strong network.
  • Applications: Apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances of acceptance.

Good luck with your applications!

Sources: International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, European Masters Rankings, European Masters Rankings, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience)

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

I'm currently preparing for the GMAT. Will probably take it around end of September to apply for R1. 

Do you know how Imperial MFin or HSG Maccfin place in London? Saw that these dont require a GMAT - in case my score won't be sufficient for HEC/Bocconi/LBS/LSE. 

 
Most Helpful

Both will give you a decent shot at MM/EB/lower-mid BB (i.e., HSBC, Citi, UBS etc.), provided you have prior relevant experience. Top BBs (i.e., GS/MS/JP) will be tougher, but not impossible. Generally, Imperial is the strongest brand of the two, and students there are invited to London events alongside Oxbridge/LSE/LBS. HSG would definitely be the better option for DACH.

 

Did you complete your undergraduate in the UK? I only ask as the GMAT waiver for Imperial is (from my limited understanding) only for those that completed their undergraduate degrees in the UK

 

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