Passed CFA3 at 24, working full-time in IB, am I crazy to aim for LBS/Imperial/ESCP ?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, your profile is competitive for the programs you're targeting, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Strengths:

1. CFA Level III Passed: This is a significant achievement at 24 and demonstrates strong technical knowledge and commitment to finance.
2. Work Experience: Your full-time role as an Analyst in IB, especially being the sole analyst on a €115m deal, is impressive. Combined with your internship at BNP Paribas, this gives you solid practical experience.
3. Dual Nationality (French/Dutch): This can be advantageous, especially for European schools, as it aligns with their international and diverse student body.
4. Master in Management (FT Top 25): While your GPA (13.5/20) is not stellar, the prestige of your MiM program helps balance this.
5. TOEFL Expected >100: This should meet the language requirements for all three programs.

Considerations:

1. No GMAT: While LBS and Imperial highly value the GMAT, some programs may waive it if you have strong professional experience and CFA credentials. However, submitting a competitive GMAT score (ideally 680+) could strengthen your application, especially for LBS and Imperial.
2. GPA: A 13.5/20 GPA is on the lower side for top programs. Highlighting your professional achievements and CFA success will be crucial to offset this.
3. Program Fit:
   • LBS MFA: Highly career-focused and competitive. Your IB experience aligns well, but the lack of GMAT might be a hurdle.
   • Imperial MSc Finance: Similar to LBS in terms of competitiveness, but slightly less strict on GMAT if other parts of your profile are strong.
   • ESCP MSc Finance: A strong option, especially given your French background. ESCP tends to be slightly less competitive than LBS and Imperial, making it a realistic target.

Recommendations:

1. Consider Taking the GMAT: A strong score (680+) would significantly boost your chances at LBS and Imperial.
2. Leverage Your CFA: Emphasize your CFA Level III pass as a substitute for the GMAT and as evidence of your quantitative and analytical skills.
3. Tailor Your Applications: Highlight your unique experiences, such as being the sole analyst on a major deal, and your international exposure (e.g., BNP Paribas internship in Lisbon).
4. Backup Options: If you're open to other programs, consider HEC Paris (MIF), Bocconi (MSc Finance), or SSE, which also have strong placements in IB and might be slightly less competitive.

Realistic Chances:

• LBS MFA: Reach (GMAT would improve your chances significantly).
• Imperial MSc Finance: Competitive but slightly less of a reach than LBS.
• ESCP MSc Finance: Strong chance, especially with your French background and relevant experience.

Good luck with your applications!

Sources: MSF Class of 2018, Msc Finance ranking Europe, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), European Masters Rankings