MSc Finance Profile Evaluation

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your profile and chances for MSc Finance programs:

Strengths:

1. Work Experience: Your experience in Corporate Development and as an Analyst at a leading PE fund in Portugal is highly relevant for MSc Finance programs, especially for schools like LSE, LBS, and HEC, which value practical exposure in finance.
2. GMAT Score: A 695 GMAT score (97th percentile) is competitive for most of your target schools, though slightly below the average for LSE and LBS. Improving this score to 720+ could strengthen your application further.
3. Volunteering and Club Involvement: These extracurriculars add depth to your profile and demonstrate leadership and initiative, which are valued by top programs.
4. Targeting London: Your goal of breaking into IB/PE in London aligns well with the placement strengths of schools like LSE, LBS, and Imperial.

Weaknesses:

1. GPA: A 15/20 GPA (top 30% of your cohort) meets the minimum requirements but may be a concern for academically rigorous programs like LSE and HEC. Highlighting your strong quantitative skills through your GMAT and work experience will be crucial.
2. Rejections Last Year: If essays were a weak point, focus on crafting compelling, tailored essays this time. Clearly articulate your career goals, why each program is a fit, and how your experience aligns with their offerings.

School-Specific Insights:

• LSE: Academically focused and highly competitive. Your GPA might be a slight hurdle, but your work experience and GMAT score could compensate. Strong essays and recommendations will be critical.
• LBS: Values work experience and leadership. Your PE background and GMAT score make you a strong candidate, but improving your GMAT slightly could boost your chances.
• HEC: Competitive but slightly more holistic in admissions. Your profile aligns well, especially with your international experience and PE background.
• Imperial: Your profile is competitive here, especially with your GMAT and work experience. Strong essays should secure an interview.
• Bocconi and SSE: Both are strong options, and your profile is well-suited for these programs. They are slightly less competitive than LSE and LBS, so you have a good chance.
• Nova and IE: These are solid safety options, and your profile should be competitive.

Recommendations:

1. Essays: Focus on crafting personalized, well-researched essays that highlight your career goals, why you’re a fit for each program, and how the program aligns with your aspirations.
2. GMAT: If possible, consider retaking the GMAT to push your score above 700, which could make a significant difference for LSE and LBS.
3. Networking: Reach out to alumni and current students from your target schools to gain insights and strengthen your application.
4. Recommendations: Secure strong letters of recommendation from supervisors who can vouch for your analytical skills, work ethic, and potential.

Final Thoughts:

You’re not reaching too far with your target schools, but improving your GMAT and essays will be key to standing out. Your work experience and career goals align well with the programs, and your safety options provide a solid backup plan. Best of luck!

Sources: MSF Class of 2018, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT, MSc Finance Profile Evaluation (LSE Finance, LBS Financial Analysis, Oxford Financial Economics), Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance