Profile Review For UK Target MFins (LBS MFA, LSE MSc Finance, Imperial MSc Finance, etc.)

Hi all,

I am a BSc Economics student at a top 50-ish school in the US. My GPA so far is 3.7, and I graduate in May 2025. As of now I have 1 internship, as a Credit Analyst Intern at a CLO Manager, completed in Summer 2023.

I plan to take the GMAT around Jan-Feb, have not started studying yet, and plan to apply for all the UK target MFin programs to start in Fall of 2026.

I'd target highest GMAT score possible, hopefully I can get 655+ (700-710 in traditional GMAT) but I'd aim for as high as possible. Of course, I'd also love to add to my internship/job experience from here until late 2025 in order to boost my application, and hopefully I can do that.

My targeted programs:
- LBS (MFA)
- LSE (MSc Finance)
- Imperial (MSc Finance)
- Oxford (MFE)

Based on my profile and my target GMAT score, what do you guys reckon are my chances of getting into these programs? Any suggestions for programs or other steps I can take are welcome as well. I understand HEC is a target as well. Thanks!

6 Comments
 

Based on previous WSO threads and the most helpful WSO content, here's a detailed review of your profile and some advice for targeting UK MFin programs:

Profile Summary:

  • Education: BSc Economics student at Penn State University (online)
  • GPA: 3.7
  • Graduation: May 2025
  • Internship: Credit Analyst Intern at a CLO Manager in NYC (Summer 2023)
  • Age at Program Start: 24 (Fall 2026)
  • Target GMAT: 655+ (aiming for 700-710)

Target Programs:

  • LBS (MFA)
  • LSE (MSc Finance)
  • Imperial (MSc Finance)
  • Oxford (MFE)

Evaluation and Recommendations:

  1. Academic Performance:

    • A GPA of 3.7 is solid and should be competitive for top UK programs.
    • Ensure you maintain or improve this GPA until graduation.
  2. Internship Experience:

    • Your internship as a Credit Analyst Intern at a CLO Manager is relevant and valuable.
    • Aim to secure additional internships or work experience in finance to strengthen your application. Consider roles in investment banking, private equity, or other finance-related fields.
  3. GMAT Score:

    • Aiming for a GMAT score of 700-710 is a good target for top programs like LBS, LSE, Imperial, and Oxford.
    • Start preparing early and consider taking a GMAT prep course if needed to achieve your target score.
  4. Program-Specific Insights:

    • LBS (MFA): Highly competitive, strong GMAT scores and relevant work experience are crucial.
    • LSE (MSc Finance): Known for its rigorous academic environment, a high GMAT score and strong quantitative skills will be beneficial.
    • Imperial (MSc Finance): Focuses on practical finance skills, so additional internships or work experience will be advantageous.
    • Oxford (MFE): Prestigious and competitive, a high GMAT score and strong academic background are essential.
  5. Additional Steps:

    • Networking: Connect with alumni and current students of your target programs to gain insights and advice.
    • Extracurricular Activities: Engage in finance-related clubs or activities to demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field.
    • Application Essays: Craft compelling essays that highlight your experiences, goals, and why you are a good fit for each program.
    • Letters of Recommendation: Secure strong letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can attest to your abilities and potential.
  6. Visa Considerations:

    • Given your concern about visa issues, focusing on UK programs is a strategic choice. The UK has a post-study work visa that allows graduates to stay and work in the UK for up to two years after completing their degree.

Conclusion:

Your profile is strong, but to maximize your chances of admission to top UK MFin programs, focus on achieving a high GMAT score, gaining additional relevant work experience, and preparing a well-rounded application. Good luck!

Sources: Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, MSF Class of 2018, What MBA programs should I be looking at?, 750 GMAT!!! Advice Needed!! Which MBA top 15 MBA should I apply to, to Maximize my chances!

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

why do you have to stay in spain? 

If you get an average score on the GMAT, I'm sure you'll get into LBS. Low % of North Americans in the program and they like to bring that up. Imperial good chances too. 
LSE, Oxford in that order I think you'll be looking for higher scores on the gmat, especially if that 3.7 does not translate to a 1st. 
 

 

Its not as great if being honest, but if you check the employment report im sure a small % is south american still (compared to other intl populations). It all boils down the same if you're not from the Asian continent imo.

1st is technically 4.0 but there's some nuance to it, honestly not sure how they would convert because a true 4.0 is especially rare in the states. anything else is a 2:1 down to 3.3 

 

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