Torn Between Stanford and LSE – Int’l Student Seeking Finance Career in US & Europe
Hi everyone – I’m fairly new here and would really appreciate some perspective.
I’m an international student from Europe trying to decide between two undergrad offers: Stanford and LSE (Accounting & Finance). Both are amazing in their own ways, but I’m pretty torn and would love to hear what the community thinks, especially from a high finance/IB/PE career perspective.
Some context: • Long-term, I’m aiming to work in both the US and Europe, ideally in investment banking or private equity. • LSE is a 3-year program and significantly cheaper – around half the cost of Stanford. • Stanford is obviously a top global brand, offers more flexibility • LSE is extremely well-regarded in Europe and has great placement into London finance roles.
My main questions: • Which school has the stronger brand name in finance globally, especially for IB and PE recruiting? • How hard is it to break into US finance (NYC) from LSE vs. Stanford? • Would Stanford open more doors in the US, while LSE is more Euro-focused? • Is the extra year and cost of Stanford worth it for someone with international ambitions?
Would love to hear from anyone who’s been in a similar position or has insight into the tradeoffs here. Thanks in advance!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your dilemma:
Global Brand Name in Finance:
Breaking into US Finance (NYC):
US vs. Europe Focus:
Cost and Duration:
Key Takeaways: - If your primary goal is to work in the US (NYC finance), Stanford is the better choice due to its strong US presence and alumni network. - If you’re more focused on Europe and want a cost-effective, direct route into London finance, LSE is the way to go. - For someone with international ambitions, Stanford offers more flexibility and a broader global brand, but it comes at a higher cost.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your financial situation and whether your priority is the US or Europe. If you can afford Stanford and are leaning towards the US, it’s a solid investment. If Europe is your main focus, LSE is a fantastic option with a strong ROI.
Sources: Yale vs. Stanford for NYC Finance, LBS Masters in Financial Analysis vs HEC MSc in Finance, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), MSF Class of 2018, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs LSE MSc Accounting and Finance
LSE is a good choice if you plan to stay in Europe. It doesn’t hold much weight in the U.S. Stanford is more reputable globally and within IB / PE. Very difficult to break into NYC IB / PE from LSE. Personally,know people who have tried unsuccessfully. Decision is really based on if you see yourself being in Europe vs. the US
Stanford is undoubtedly going to give you a wider network across the globe and certainly within the US. Rishi Sunak got his MBA at Stanford and went back to the UK (obviously for government). LSE as Sigma Batman says is going to probably be better for EU recruiting given its location and Stanford will have the advantage in the US. For cross networking/recruiting I would bet Stanford will be most useful. Another thing you could if you're deadset on working on both continents is go get an MBA in the opposite location. Both schools would give you solid leverage assuming similar early career outcomes but again I think Stanford being a top 5 if not higher University in the world is still going to be the edge. Go to Stanford then go LBS or something in a few years.
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