Uni choices for bachelor

Quick Summary (TL;DR):

If your goal is Investment Banking (IB) , here's the ranking based on reputation, network, and placement:

🟩 1. University of Edinburgh (MAccS or Econ/Finance track)
🟨 2. Erasmus University Rotterdam (BSc in Economics or QTEM)
🟥 3. University of Manchester (BSc Finance/Econ)

But let’s break it down...

🏛️ 1. University of Edinburgh

• Why it’s strong: Consistently top UK unis for IB placement, especially in London. It’s a target school for most elite banks.
• Location: UK – gives you easier access to London internships and networking events.
• Reputation: Recognised globally, with strong academics and brand recognition in finance.
• Alumni Network: Solid, especially in the UK and EU. Many grads go into banking, consulting, and asset mgmt.
• IB Access: You’ll be on the radar of headhunters if you're at or near a first-class degree.

✅ Best bet for breaking into IB in London or internationally.

🇳🇱 2. Erasmus University Rotterdam

• Why it’s good: Top European university for economics & finance. Strong quantitative focus. Great for EU-based roles.
• Location: Netherlands – closer to Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris — major European financial hubs.
• Reputation: Highly respected in Europe, slightly less known in the US or Asia unless it's for ECB, De Nederlandsche Bank or EU-focused IB roles.
• IB Access: Not typically a “target” for US banks, but still possible for Eurozone roles, especially in mid-tier or boutique IBs.
• English-taught: Yes, which is a plus if you don’t speak Dutch.

✅ Good for EU banking scene, especially if you’re open to working in continental Europe.

🏙️ 3. University of Manchester

• Why it’s decent: Still a Russell Group university, solid academic reputation, and another target school in the UK.
• IB Access: Similar to Edinburgh, but slightly less consistent in top-tier IB placements depending on year and student performance.
• Location: UK – again, proximity to London helps.
• Alumni Network: Big and active, but not quite as elite-heavy as Edinburgh.

⚠️ Slight edge to Edinburgh due to stronger global brand and perceived prestige , but both are solid.

🎯 Final Advice:

• If you want the best shot at top IB roles in London or globally , go with Edinburgh .
• If you prefer living in mainland Europe and are open to working there, choose Erasmus Rotterdam .
• Manchester is still great, just very similar to Edinburgh — pick it only if you have a personal reason to be in Manchester.

🔑 Pro Tip:

No matter which uni you pick, what really matters is:

• Your grades (aim for first)
• Your networking hustle
• Relevant internships
• Technical prep (ACs, interviews, markets)

So once you pick your school — start grinding early. 😎📈