Need Help with choosing Masters in Finance Degree
Hello Everyone.
I am hoping to get insight from you all regarding what would be the optimal decision for myself, given my background which I will provide.
I need help with deciding what Master in Finance program to choose (pre-experience or post-experience).
My target pre-experience programs are MFA at LBS, and the HEC MIF (if this even is a pre-experience program). I am open to hearing suggestions on other programs, there are quite a bunch of them in Europe (I have read into the imperial college, bocconi, etc), but these ones caught my eye the most.
Background:
I turned 26 a couple weeks ago. I completed an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Econ & Financial management with a minor in Financial Mathematics in 2023 at a Canadian University (Wilfrid Laurier University) (GPA 3.12/4). Have completed CFA level 1, studying for level 2.
First analyst position since graduation was alright, more/less accounting position. Journal entries, reconciliations, variance analysis between actuals and forecasted values, helping out with adjusting forecasts and other adhoc stuff. (total 1 year of experience)
Current analyst position is an FA role for the M&A department of the firm. Conducting market research, financial valuations, preparation of power point slides for an information memorandum for a sell-side deal we are working on, and review of documents for due diligence. (3 months experience - present)
My biggest concern is that most of these pre-experience positions specify that applicants have graduated within the last 2 years and have at most 2 years of experience. By the beginning of 2025 (prior to the beginning of the program start), I will have surpassed these cutoffs and would be considered "ineligible". Asides from that, I fear that my GPA of 3.12 is too low.
What are your thoughts on my concerns, and any advice would be GREATLY appreciated. I am a bit lost with what to do. An option is to apply for these programs now. Another is to work a bit longer, complete CFA and then apply to post-experience masters in finance.
Once again, any input is much appreciated.
Regards,
M
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice for your situation:
Concerns and Considerations:
Eligibility for Pre-Experience Programs:
GPA Concerns:
Options and Recommendations:
Apply Now:
Post-Experience Programs:
Alternative Programs:
Additional Steps:
Networking and Application Strategy:
Professional Development:
Consider a Master's in Business Administration (MBA):
Conclusion:
Given your current trajectory and concerns, applying to pre-experience programs now might be a good immediate step. However, considering post-experience programs or even an MBA in the future could provide more flexibility and align better with your growing professional experience.
Good luck with your decision!
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/dilemma-quantitative-finance-vs-finance?customgpt=1, Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, Latino woman not groomed for the finance “world” thoughts pls?
Your gpa is fine just kill the GRE/GMAT. Don’t listen to Reddit it’s full of fobs who don’t really understand how to get into these schools. As an international, your GPA isn’t factored into rankings so they don’t report unless you’re US domestic.
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