The Masters in Finance degree is one of the most up and coming specialized masters programs in the business world.

Listen to the recording of our conversation with Anthony DeAngelis, owner and founder of Masters in Finance HQ, for the low-down on his company, the MSF degree, and the world of finance.

00:03:35 – The bored (but not boring!) beginnings of MSFHQ .

00:06:03 – What do financial analysts really do?

00:13:37 – Different types of MSF/MiF programs and what kind of candidates they are looking for.

00:16:40 – Can liberal arts grads go the finance route?

00:19:30 – A word about the schools that require work experience.

00:21:28 – Plenty of work to go around in the finance industry.

00:23:47 – Guidelines for the MSF vs. MBA vs. Financial Engineering Degree decision.

00:27:58 –Financial services are rebounding. What does the future hold?

00:34:56 – What’s changed the most at MSFHQ.

00:36:45 – Advice for people considering the MSF.

*Theme music is courtesy of podcastthemes.com.

Related Links:

• MSFHQ
• Accepted.com Services Section (SUMMER Sale ends on July 15!)
• What is a Masters in Finance?

Related Shows:

• The Facts About Financial Services
• Which Schools are Good for PE/VC and VC-Backed Entrepreneurship 
• Business, Law and Beyond: An Interview with John Engelman
• Case Interview Secrets and More with Victor Cheng

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So what’s the ticket to heaven?

Being amazing is just a qualification for the Princeton University Master in Finance program. But if you qualify, get admitted (about 30 out of 600 applicants do), and choose to attend (about 25 out of that 30), I believe you enter heaven.

 • All your classmates are not just extremely bright and passionate about finance; they also represent experience from across the industry – and they are chosen in part because they can communicate their insights from that experience.

• There is 100% recruitment for summer internships at the most desirable institutions, and almost 100% post-graduation employment (2014). These internships/jobs span the globe—Mexico City, Singapore, Hong Kong, London, and various cities in the US as well as NYC.

• A curriculum that is intensive and deep; following the core you can either develop your own study program or pursue 1of 3 course tracks: Financial Engineering and Risk Management, Quantitative Asset Management and Macroeconomic Forecasting, and Financial Technologies.

• Career “boot camps” where alumni, industry experts, and academics help you formulate a career path that is meaningful to you and productively employs your skills, talents, interests.

• World-renowned faculty (think Alan Blinder, Paul Krugman) from multiple disciplines who don’t just teach sophisticated skills but who engage passionately in ideas, thereby helping you become a thought leader in the field.

So what’s the ticket to heaven?

Academics – A high GPA and a transcript that reflects a strong quantitative component – many applicants have degrees in subjects such as mathematics, economics, and engineering, but it is not required and they have admitted people from a range of disciplines (though there are certain math requirements). A grad degree is “a plus but not required.”

Standardized tests – Both GMAT and GRE are accepted; the median quant GRE score is 167 and the average quant GMAT score is 49.5. That said, a high quant score doesn’t make up for weak quant coursework. If your undergrad school was not taught in English (or if it was taught in English in a non-English speaking country), either the TOEFL or IELTS is also required.

Interviews are by invitation only, and selected applicants will be notified. Others are discouraged from seeking interviews.

Experience – Professional experience is not required; however the adcom wants to see some practical industry exposure via internships at least – they note that potential employers look for this experience. So the program is open to new graduates who have had an internship or two – but make sure you have something substantive to say based on your experience; your competition will.

Qualitative factors – You may be surprised that in the adcom’s eyes it is the qualitative factors that “set applicants apart”! The adcom specifically looks for strong communication ability, expecting its students to contribute within a highly intelligent cohort and to become leaders in the industry. More than anything, it seeks passion for finance. Even if you’re a quant geek, don’t think there’s a formula for this passion – it must be expressed through application contents holistically. The adcom members will know it when they see it.

Finally, be sure this is the right degree for you. As the website states, it’s not the right program for people pursuing corporate finance or investment bank M&A; but the MiF “is becoming the preferred degree in the trading and asset management areas of the I-bank.”

By Cindy Tokumitsu, author and co-author of numerous ebooks, articles, and special reports, including Why MBA and Best MBA Programs: A Guide to Selecting the Right One. Cindy has advised hundreds of successful applicants in her fifteen years with Accepted.com.

Related Resources:

• The Facts About Financial Services
• Where Does Wall St. Hire: U.S. B-Schools Sending Grads into Financial Services
• What is Passion in Admissions?

HEC Paris Business School just announced the launch of its new MBA-MIF program in a press release Monday. The 20-month program (16 months for the MBA and 10 months for the Masters in Finance) will provide students with an integrated curriculum, allowing for different tracks for students with different skills and experience levels. Within the MBA component of the program, students will be able specialize in entrepreneurship, strategy, or general management, and combine that with the finance specialization in the MIF component. Students will receive “early intensive training in finance, thereby enhancing preparation for banking and consulting interviews.”

Upon completion of the dual degree program, students will receive an MBA and an MSc in International Finance.

According to Jacques Olivier, HEC Paris Professor of Finance and Program Director, “The financial crisis has challenged business schools to find new ways to equip their graduates with the right set of knowledge, skills and values. HEC Paris has designed the MBA-MIF dual degree for young professionals who wish to acquire not only the general management education and leadership skills from a leading MBA program, but also advanced technical knowledge in finance to differentiate themselves from their peers. This unique combination will allow dual degree students to fast-track onto senior management positions within finance and consulting.”

See the HEC Paris website for more information on the MBA-MIF program.

For advice on how to get accepted to HEC Paris, please see our HEC Paris B-School Zone.

Related Resources:

• Which Business School Will Get Me to Wall Street?
• Vault’s 2015 Banking Rankings
• The Facts About Financial Services

Practicality is the essence of MIT’s Master in Finance program. It’s just one year, as opposed to numerous MFin programs that are 1.5 to 2 years, and, as the website notes, it was developed “as a direct response to demand in the financial industry.” In spite of the short duration, the program offers flexibility to tailor it to your needs. Moreover, it’s an “early career” program – students’ pre-program experience averages 0-4 years, according to the website, with about 50% coming directly from undergrad.

Here are some additional distinguishing elements of the program:

• Its location in the business school deepens its opportunities; you’ll take some courses with MBA, PhD, and Sloan Fellows students, giving you direct access to people with deep experience and networks across many industries and functions. You can also participate in certain clubs such as Venture Capital and Private Equity Club.

• The flexibility extends to the option to take some courses at the School of Engineering and/or School of Science.

• The practical nature of the program includes a Finance Research Practicum, which addresses real-world situations and problems.

• The opportunity to build strong, enduring relationships arises from the extensive small-group work, which also prepares you to succeed in an increasingly interconnected and team-focused work environment.

• Career development is an ongoing focus from the first semester, with a “Career Core” curriculum. There are also career treks and opportunities to explore industry segments.

• About 88% of 2013 graduates received employment offers as of October 2013, notes the Employment Report.

• It’s a truly global program, with 84% of students from outside the US.

Now, what does it take to win access to these delectable resources and opportunities? With an acceptance rate of around 10%, a lot.

• Solid academic achievement and test scores, with average GPA of 3.7 (in programs spanning various disciplines, from economics and math to engineering and business to humanities and science), GMAT mid 80% range 700-770, with quant 48-51; GRE quant mid 80% range 161-170.

• Prerequisite quantitative coursework – if you click on the link, scroll down and take the self-assessment!

• Most desired personal qualities are ability to collaborate, willingness to think/look outside of the proverbial box (a classic MIT value), and high motivation (use your essays to demonstrate these qualities).

• While many students have no official professional experience, the adcom wants to see at least a related internship, so that students come with some practical exposure.

• Interviews are selective (about 30%) and by invitation only; every accepted applicant is interviewed (about 30% of those interviewed are admitted).

• Good news for internationals: a TOEFL score is not required!

By the way, on the program’s website there is an extensive and thorough discussion of recruiting, careers, etc. in the FAQ – I recommend perusing it.

By Cindy Tokumitsu, author and co-author of numerous ebooks, articles, and special reports, including Why MBA and Best MBA Programs: A Guide to Selecting the Right One. Cindy has advised hundreds of successful applicants in her fifteen years with Accepted.com.

Related Resources:

• MIT Sloan B-School Zone
• Princeton University Master in Finance: Is It Right for You, and Are You Right for Princeton?
• The Facts About Financial Services

The relatively short LBS MFin essay questions, together, convey the adcom’s interest in both who you are and how you envision and plan your career.  Given that your classmates will be experienced finance professionals (the average work experience is six years), it’s important to deliver throughout and “across” the essays mature, informed insights and perspectives derived from your experience in your particular area of finance.

The essay questions are: 

1. What is it about Finance that interests and inspires you? (300 word limit) 

Be yourself.  No need to wear a halo; while some people are inspired by the belief that finance can change the world for the better, others feel equally inspired by the high stakes and fast pace, or a technical or intellectual dimension.  

This essay work best as a story – simply tell the story of how you “fell in love” with finance (whether industry or function or both—what finance means and looks like to you).  This approach will allow the reader to see through your eyes what interests and inspires you about the field.  And it will inherently lead you to provide the detail and anecdote to make the essay memorable and vivid.

2. What role do you see yourself in immediately after the programme? How will the MiF build on your current skills and experience to help you achieve this? In what geographical region do you see yourself working in immediately after the programme? If you are not successful in your first choice of role, is there another role you would consider? (500 word limit) 

This is really four questions. You needn’t answer them in order, and I suggest combining the “geographical region” answer with the answer to the first question about where you see yourself immediately post-program.  That discussion should include details such as company or type of company, specific positions and titles, and what you want to achieve in that role and why – your “vision” for this step in your career. Should you mention long-term goals?  Sure, if you wish, but briefly.  Sometimes they are important for understanding your short-term goals.  The immediate goal should be consistent with the message in the first essay, and should be a realistic target that’s also appropriately ambitious.

The final question asks for your “Plan B.” In describing it, give a brief rationale as well for why it’s a suitable and appealing path.

3. What value will you add to London Business School? (200 word limit)

Feel free to discuss relevant factors beyond finance here (note the question asks not what you’ll bring to the MFin program, but to London Business School).  Some possible topic areas include unusual work experience or industry/functional exposure, personal interests (though please don’t say traveling), formative academic or social experiences, distinctive or unusual aspects of your background, etc. Think about what will round out your profile in an appealing and relevant way to prospective classmates.  With only 200 words, don’t discuss more than 3 things; you’ll still need example and detail to make the topics credible and interesting.   

Deadlines:

If you would like professional guidance with your LBS MFin application, please consider Accepted’s essay editing and admissions consulting or our Masters in Finance Application Package.

By Cindy Tokumitsu, author and co-author of numerous ebooks, articles, and special reports, including Why MBA and Best MBA Programs: A Guide to Selecting the Right One. Cindy has advised hundreds of successful applicants in her fifteen years with Accepted.com.

Related Resources:

• MBA in Sight: Focus on Finance
• Master in Finance: What You Need to Know
• Princeton University Master in Finance: Is It Right for You, and Are You Right for Princeton?

The post London Business School Master In Finance 2015 Essay Tips appeared first on Accepted Admissions Consulting Blog.

LBS has announced a new master’s program in finance. The new Master’s in Financial Analysis (MFA) will be a 12-month intensive program aimed at recent graduates from quantitatively-focused fields, who want a rigorous grad program that will prepare them for careers in the finance sector.

The first class will begin the new program in the fall of 2016. The MFA curriculum will focus on six areas: Corporate Finance (including M&A and Capital Structure); Asset Management (incorporating topics such as credit markets, practical asset allocation, market efficiency and anomalies, liquidity, long-short investing or slow-moving capital); Accounting (focusing on Accounting and Securities Analysis and Valuations); Financial Markets (financial institutions, personal finance); Financial Econometrics; and Global Markets and World Economy.

Students will also develop their soft skills, such as communication, commitment, and commercial awareness. The program will balance coursework in London with international fieldtrips.

LBS’s Masters in Finance has been ranked number 1 by the Financial Times for five years running. Drawing on the school’s strengths, as well as the manifold advantages of studying in London, the new Masters in Financial Analysis program will provide an intensive, 1-year option for students near the beginning of their careers.

Related Resources:

• London Business School Master’s in Finance Application Essay Tips
• Master in Finance: What You Need to Know
• The Facts About Financial Services

The post LBS Launches New Finance Master’s For New Grads appeared first on Accepted Admissions Consulting Blog.

When looking to fill investment banking positions, top firms tend to direct their searches towards cream of the crop universities. Here are the top b-schools you should be looking at to give yourself the best chance of getting hired after graduation, according to the latest eFinancialCareers findings.

* For a complete list of the top 35 ranking MBA programs, see this table.

The eFinancialCareers article explains that the table is based on the number MBAs who have gone to work in a “front office” investment banking role upon graduation. (This includes corporate finance, equity research, or sales and trading.)

Thinking about pursuing an MoF? The top 30 Masters of Finance programs for investment banking recruiting look totally different. You can find that list here. 

Related Resources:

• Which Business School Will Get Me to Wall Street?
• The Facts About Financial Services [Podcast]
• 4 Tips For Applying To B-School With Finance Experience

The post B-Schools That Rank for Landing Jobs in Investment Banking appeared first on Accepted Admissions Consulting Blog.

Financial Times just came out with their rankings of Masters in Finance programs around the world. Below are some highlights, followed by the top 10 rankings.

Masters in Finance 2016 Highlights:

• This year there were 55 programs included in the FT rankings for Finance programs for pre-experience professionals, up from 50 programs last year. Minnesota Carlson was one of the new programs added to the list with their new MiF degree program. This year, the program received 150 applications for the 27 seats available, before the school had even advertised the new program.

• There are 5 ranked programs for post-experience professionals.

• After five years of being #1, London Business School has dropped to the #2 slot of the Post-Experience rankings, allowing Cambridge Judge to take the top spot. London Business School, does however still boast the highest earners, making just under $137,000 average salary three years post-graduation.

• For Pre-Experience programs, HEC Paris takes the #1 spot for the sixth year in a row.

• University of Hong Kong made the biggest leap this year, jumping 16 spots to 29th place. Lancaster University Management School was also a big jumper, climbing 10 spots to 30th place.

• MIT Sloan hit a record in application volume for its Masters in Finance course at 2,083 applications, an increase of 22% over last year. MIT Sloan also boasts the highest average salary for pre-experience Finance programs at $117,000 three years post-graduation.

• Applications to finance-related masters programs at Warwick Business School are up 12% this year.

• MiF programs are extremely popular among international students. Lancaster University Business School, located in the UK, has no local British students in its MiF course this year. US programs have classified MiF programs as STEM courses, a status that enables non-U.S. students to tack on an additional 24 months to their visas.

• Due to an increase in demand, Masters in Finance programs frequently offer modules on entrepreneurship, crowdfunding, and other fintech- or startup-focused content.

Top 10 Masters in Finance Programs (Pre-Experience):

Top 5 Masters in Finance Programs (Post-Experience):

See these articles for more information:

• Masters in Finance 2016 Ranking: Judge and HEC Top FT Tables
• Masters in Finance 2016 Ranking: Schools Gain from Industry Woes
• FT Masters in Finance Rankings Methodology

Related Resources:

• Princeton University Master in Finance: Is It Right for You?
• MIT Master in Finance – Is It the Right Fit for You (and Vice Versa)?
• The Facts About Financial Services, podcast

The post FT Top Masters in Finance Programs in 2016 appeared first on Everything you need to know to get Accepted.

Over the last ten years we have seen a lot more options in graduate management education. I’ve highlighted some on previous shows like the recent shows we have had on the CEMS Masters in International Management or UVA’s MS in Global Commerce or MIT’s MS in Business Analytics.

Today it’s my pleasure to have back on Admissions Straight Talk Jamie Wright, Senior Recruitment and Admissions Manager at London Business School – Early Career Programs. She has been working with London Business School’s early career programs since 2009 and became the Senior Recruitment and Admissions Manager in 2012. She’s joining us today to discuss the expanding and evolving menu of early career options at London Business School. Welcome!

Can you give us an overview of the three early career options? [2:10]

Our flagship program is the Masters in Management (MiM), which is a one-year general management degree focusing on the fundamentals of business (finance, economics, marketing, entrepreneurship, leadership, etc), all with an aim to help students pursue careers in business. Most grads go into finance or consulting, but we’re seeing more of an interest in industry roles (tech, entrepreneurship, healthcare, etc).

The Global Masters in Management is a two-year degree. Students spend the first year in London, then go to Shanghai and spend the second year at Fudan University. At the end of the program, they receive two degrees: a MiM from LBS and a masters in International Business from Fudan University. Students gain insight into how business is done in both Europe and Asia.

The newest program is the Masters in Finance Analytics (MFA). It’s a specialist degree within the early career program, intended for students from heavily quantitative backgrounds (math, tech, finance, engineering).

Is knowledge of Chinese required for the Global MiM? [4:39]

It’s not required. We’re seeing people with various ranges of skills in Mandarin (some have studied abroad). We do offer language courses through the program, so it’s a great way for students to develop their skills together.

What is the difference between the MiM and an MBA? [5:50]

On average at LBS, MBA students have five to six years of work experience, which they are expected to bring into the classroom. Most early career students have internship experience, but not that same exposure to the business world.

Both programs address business fundamentals (the MBA program in the first of two years).

If I’m a potential applicant, how do I know when I’m better off going for the MiM or the MBA? [7:40]

It’s a very personal decision. Some companies and industries prefer MBAs, and it can be difficult to gauge at the early career stage if you’ll need an MBA someday in order to advance in your career.

If you have a dream job right out of college and you see the potential for promotion, it might be worth pursuing that and then going for the MBA later. But if you don’t quite know the direction you want, and you want to explore the recruiting landscape, or if you need to develop your business acumen or your soft skills, the early career programs can be a great support.

What if I did a MiM and then realized later that I need an MBA – could I go straight into the second year of the MBA program? [10:40]

There’s not currently a way to do that at LBS. But we are starting to see MiM grads go on to MBA programs in the US and Asia – to gain new networks, different faculty insights, and a new perspective. They’ve already had a European perspective.

How is the MFA different from the Masters in Finance at LBS? [11:40]

They’re aimed at people at two different points in their career. The MFA is for individuals who have less than one year of experience. And the Masters in Finance is for experienced professionals – on average, six years of work experience. They’re expected to bring that experience into the classroom.

How is the curriculum different? [13:00]

The MFA is more introductory. The curriculum is based around five pillars: corporate finance, asset management, accounting, financial markets, and financial econometrics.

You mentioned that most MiM grads go into finance and consulting, while the recruiting is diversifying. What careers do Global MiM grads go into? [14:30]

Actually, the first class of GMiM students just went to Shanghai for the second year of their program, so it’s too early for employment information.

But we will be running webinars this year with students there to see what their life is like in Shanghai.

Can you share any success stories from MiM grads?
We see success in many different ways. [16:05]

I was in Poland last week to meet with alumni, and saw an alum who’d worked with Goldman Sachs in London, and moved to a private equity firm just opening a new office in Warsaw. So he’s drawing on his experience and starting a new venture at the same time.

We have a lot of interesting stories of entrepreneurs. About 30 companies have been developed by MiM grads in diverse areas: a high-end shoe company, online services, a mobile salon (which recently partnered with designers for London Fashion Week). It’s interesting to see the directions students are going.

Have grads had success getting jobs outside the EU, or in the UK if they’re not UK citizens? [19:05]

Visa issues can complicate the search, but we have a fantastic career center. You need to be flexible (regarding location and company).

Students who are most successful in the job search are those who understand that there’s a Plan A, and five routes to get there. And if it doesn’t work, there’s Plan B, and a lot of routes to get there. And that flexibility is relevant to location as well.

There are a lot of opportunities at LBS, and we encourage students to take advantage of them to explore their interests. We also have a great alumni community in 42 countries – there’s always someone to talk to. Lots of resources, lots of opportunities.

Are you concerned about the impact of Brexit on LBS’s ability to place students in the coming years? [23:10]

It’s definitely something we’re keeping an eye on. Our career center is talking to hiring managers and doing research. We don’t have a lot to go on at this point.

The two areas for us will be hiring practices and immigration. We will continue to keep an eye on this as it develops.

What are the early career programs looking for in applicants? [25:10]

Applicants for all three programs need to meet basic entry requirements: GPA, GMAT/GRE, English proficiency.

Beyond that, we’re looking for individuals who are motivated to excel in the community here, can demonstrate that they motivated themselves to succeed in their undergrad careers (both inside and outside of the classroom); people who are engaged; people who are ambitious, and have pushed themselves to excel both in and out of the classroom. That out-of-the-classroom engagement can be professional, community service, sports, music – we’re looking for people who are passionate and have pursued those passions.

Do you have any preference when it comes to the GRE or GMAT? [27:35]

For the MFA, the CFA level 1 can substitute for the GRE or GMAT.

There are some industries (such as consulting) that prefer the GMAT, so if that’s your goal, it is worth going for the GMAT.

For the MFA, because we want students from very strong quantitative backgrounds, we look closely at applicants’ undergraduate programs.

What do you wish applicants understood? [30:00]

The main thing we’re trying to do is connect the dots: how your undergrad experience led to the MiM/MFA and how that will lead to your career, your rationale for pursuing the experiences you’ve had, and how the masters will fit.

We want to get a sense of your story and your voice: who you are as an individual. Not the voice you think we want to hear at the business school – but your voice.

What can applicants expect at the interview? [32:10]

The interview is competency-based. The interviewer will have read your application in depth. You may be asked about your experiences – why you pursued XYZ internship, what your motivation is to pursue the degree and career you’re interested in.

Do you have any tips for students applying for 2017, or looking ahead to 2018? [33:50]

For current juniors: use the time to prepare for the GMAT/GRE. And take some time to do research on the programs. We have student ambassadors – speak to students and alumni about the programs.

For seniors applying this year: keep in touch with us. Send us your CV for review. Don’t get overwhelmed with the application – look at each piece one at a time. Prepare for the GMAT one section at a time. Take some time to reflect on the application questions, and think about whether this is the right program for you. The MiM and MFA have two essays, and the GMiM also has a video component.

And stay in touch with us – ask us questions. We’re happy to give advice.

If you have any concerns over whether the early career degree is the right path, we’re happy to talk with you! We ultimately want you to submit the best application you can. [38:00]

Related Links:

• London Business School Masters in Management
• London Business School Global Masters in Management
• London Business School Masters in Financial Analysis
• London Business School 2016-17 MBA Essay Tips
• London Business School Zone Page

Related Shows:

• The Scoop on the London Business School Masters in Management Program
• The CEMS MIM: A Truly International Masters in Management
• UVA MS in Global Commerce: 3 Continents, 2 Masters, 1 Amazing Year
• The Schwarzman Scholars Program: Leaders of the Future Unite

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The post College Students, Recent Grads Interested in Business: London is Calling! [Episode 180] appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

The LBS MiF essay questions, together, convey strong interest in two inter-related points: (1) how you envision and plan your future career and (2) your knowledge of and interest in the LBS Masters in Finance program (2 of the 3 questions ask specifically about LBS). It’s particularly important because it’s a rare MiF program that targets more experienced finance professionals; many if not most such programs target early-career applicants. Given this unique focus, it’s important to deliver throughout the essays mature, informed insights and perspectives derived from your experience in your particular area of finance. And cite reasons for attending the program beyond the fact that it’s there –the adcom clearly is looking for engaged applicants who are well-informed about the program and ready to participate in its academic and social life. 

Question 1: What is your motivation for applying to London Business School’s Masters in Finance programme? (maximum 300 words)

LBS MiF adcom breaks up the question that often is combined in business-oriented application essays: what are your goals and how does the program in question help prepare you for those goals? This question is essentially the “why LBS” part and essay 2 is the goals part.

Discuss why the LBS MiF in particular appeals to you, citing specific aspects and elements of the program that motivate you to apply. It’s a chance to show you’re completely conversant with the program and have a solid game plan for making the most of it.

Question 2: What are your career objectives and what steps have you taken (or do you plan to take) to achieve them? What alternatives are you considering? What geographical region do you hope to work in? (maximum 500 words)

Well, it’s a good thing they give you 500 words here, because the question is actually four questions! That said, all these sub-questions are focused on one thing: goals. Discussion of “why LBS” occurs elsewhere.

Your career objectives are holistic: both what you want to DO, and what you want to ACHIEVE (what impact you want to have through your career). The “achieve” part may be brief but it animates and gives purpose to the whole essay (indeed, the whole application). The “do” part should be specific, in terms of position(s), industry, possibly company(ies), and, in this section, geography as well. The alternatives are essentially your “Plan B” – I suggest making it for the shorter-term goals, and note how/why it’s another viable path to your long-term goals. Be thoughtful about this alternative section, but don’t spend a lot of space on it.

Not least, identify the key steps you have taken or plan to take toward your goals. Of course, attending LBS is one such future step. It’s fine to mention it in this essay, but you can detail it in other essays. I do suggest if possible mentioning some specific steps you’ve taken so far toward your goals, which will add credibility to your case overall. 

Question 3: What specific areas of London Business School life are you most excited about getting involved in and where do you believe you will add value to the School Community? (maximum 300 words)

This essay allows you to do 2 important things:

• Demonstrate understanding of the LBS community overall;

• Highlight interesting and/or impressive aspects of your life and experience.

Really focus on the LBS community in this essay. In discussing the areas you’d like to get involved in, select 2-3 and try to include something beyond work – perhaps there are sports or social clubs, or a volunteer initiative, that you’d like to join. Of course, it’s fine to mention professional clubs and organizations as well. How you’ll add value can include these activities but it can also be broader, to include what you’ll bring to the table based on your experiences. But interesting facts alone don’t show how you’ll add value; you need to include your insight to make it meaningful.

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***

Full-time Masters in Finance (August 2017 intake)

Part-time Masters in Finance (August 2017 intake)

By Cindy Tokumitsu, has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MBA and EMBA, master, law, PhD and medical programs,with special emphasis on MBA and EMBA and other business programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Get Your Game On: Prepping for Your Grad School Application
• FT Top Masters in Finance Programs in 2016
• College Students, Recent Grads Interested in Business: London is Calling! [Episode 180]

The post London Business School 2017 MiF Essay Questions, Tips & Deadlines appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

This week we are pleased to welcome Heidi Pickett, Director of the MIT Sloan Master of Finance Program. Heidi worked in financial services for 20 years before becoming Director of this program in 2011. She fills us in on what the program is looking for in an applicant, how to figure out if the program is a good fit for you, and the application process. Listen in for the inside scoop!

Could you give an overview of the MIT’s Master in Finance program highlighting its distinctive features? [0:28]

The program was launched in 2008 at the height of the financial crisis, in direct response to the crisis. Our finance faculty felt that there shouldn’t be fewer people in the finance function, but better trained people. It’s geared toward early career finance professionals and grounded in finance theory, models, and applications. Modern finance was invented here at MIT, and the tools and models developed here and used throughout the world are taught by those who created them.

The MIT Sloan MFin comes in a 12-month and an 18-month option. What are the differences? [1:53]

The 12-month track is our original and primary track. The degree requirements for both programs are the same, but the 18-month track is ideal for those that would like to take more time and take advantage of more courses, not just at Sloan but across MIT. The 18 month program also allows for an internship to gain practical experience, which is a great opportunity for people who haven’t worked full time in finance.

I understand that this is a program geared to early career applicants. Is that correct? [2:51]

Yes. Not all MFin programs are geared to early career applicants, but ours definitely is.

What is the typical amount of work experience? [3:23]

The average is around 18 months, however full-time experience ranges from zero to three years max, with one caveat. We feel strongly about training people in the public sector as well (central bankers, official institutions, regulators, etc), so we do attract people from those types of organizations as well. Those students tend to be sponsored and return to their organizations after graduation and are usually outliers with 5-10 years of experience.

Let’s return to the 12- vs 18-month options. Other than the internship, is it just the love of learning that would motivate students to do the 18-month option? [4:51]

There are a few reasons people choose the 18-month option. The program is very rigorous and intense. Many students who have gone through the 12 month program have told us they wished they had another semester to allow for participation in the other things available, like clubs, leadership opportunities or running conferences. Others want the extra time to load up on additional courses, sometimes in finance, sometimes in other subjects.

How does the MFin differ from an MBA with a concentration in finance or a Master in Financial Engineering? [6:15]

MFin vs. MBA: The MFin is early career vs an average of 4-5 years of experience in the MBA program. You also get double the amount of finance courses, so overall it’s more quantitative.

MFin vs MFE: Intention. The MFin offers a broader range of subject matter, resulting in a broader range of opportunities upon graduation as opposed to a sliver of the market with the MFE. Students can customize their curriculum, and we do have a MFE concentration within the MFin program, so we provide the skill set to MFin students who are interested.

Any discussion at MIT Sloan about an eventual joint MBA/MFin? [8:14]

No, not at this point, and we don’t see a need. We have two strong programs, and student interests are different.

Can you describe the application process for the MIT Sloan Master in Finance? [8:44]

It starts with a pre-app through online chats or info sessions on campus or other locations around the world, in order to understand who we are, our program and culture, and make sure we are a good fit. Once the decision to apply has been made, applications are due the first week of January. The application includes an essay and three letters of recommendation (one academic, one professional, and the third either/or). Transcripts must also be submitted, and we look closely at the level of math courses as well as for some proficiency in a programming language, whether that’s R or Python or something comparable. We also have the video interview. And we look at GRE or GMAT scores. If an applicant is a non-native English speaker and did not attend four years at an English-speaking institution, we require the TOEFL or IETS as well.

Applications are reviewed, and interviews are invitation only. Interviews take place in person, either on campus or around the world with our team.

Any advice for answering the essay questions? [10:59]

We look for the applicant’s own voice, a passion for finance, an understanding of the preparations thus far (coursework, research, work experience), and then what they want to do when they graduate. Goals don’t need to be precise, but realistic and well thought through, with an understanding of the range of opportunities that will exist after receiving the degree.

What’s the purpose of the video question? [13:23]

Finance is not just numbers or knowing how to run a model or create a program. It requires communication skills – specifically the ability to communicate clearly the complex issues being worked on to everyone in the room. We promise strong communication/presence skills to our employer partners and it is part of the MFin experience, so we use the video data point as another part of the application before meeting in person to see how applicants can present themselves in 60 seconds.

One needs good quantitative skills to succeed at MIT Sloan, and good communication skills to succeed in a finance career. What other personal qualities are important? [14:38]

A strong grounded sense of ethics. The ability to recognize when to ask questions or voice concerns. Having the conviction to raise issues and understand implications of actions with access to such powerful tools. With lessons learned from the financial crisis, we want our graduates to go out into the world doing things in an ethically and socially responsible way.

What kind of careers will graduates go into? [15:43]

Pretty traditional. About 1/3 go into investment management, maybe 20% into consulting, and a large portion into investment banking. Also a small portion goes into venture capital, private equity, CFO rotational programs, or even starts ups.

What’s a cool story about an MFin grad? Or one that you are particularly proud of? [17:23]

We have a 2010 graduate who works for a large asset management company in the US but is very focused on social impact investing. He recently came back to campus and spoke at our sustainability summit about new forms of capital to solve the world’s problems. It’s really neat to see someone using their financial skill set in a way that also aligns with MIT’s mission of solving the world’s problems.

What question would you like to answer that I didn’t ask? [18:56]

The long term value of the degree. It not only pays off when you graduate, but generates returns throughout your lifetime, providing skills that will help you adapt to global markets that change rapidly and become more complex.

Related Links:

• MIT Sloan Masters of Finance Admissions

Related Shows:

• Contemplating a Career in Data Science/Business Analytics?
• Insights into MIT Sloan MBA Admissions with Dawna Levenson
• A Transformational Year: The MIT Sloan Fellows Program

Subscribe:

The post MIT Sloan Master in Finance: How to Get In! [Episode 231] appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

The LBS MiF essay questions, together, convey the adcom’s interest in two inter-related points: (1) how you envision and plan your future career and (2) your knowledge of and interest in the LBS Masters in Finance program. It’s particularly important because it’s a rare MiF program that targets more experienced finance professionals (most such programs target early-career applicants). Given this unique focus, it’s important to deliver throughout the essays mature, informed insights and perspectives derived from your experience in your particular area of finance. And cite reasons for attending the program beyond the fact that it’s there –the adcom clearly is looking for engaged applicants who are well-informed about the program and ready to participate in its academic and social life.

Question 1: What are your career objectives and what steps are you taking to achieve them? What alternatives are you considering? What geographical region do you hope to work in? (maximum 500 words)

Well, this “question 1” is actually four questions! That said, all the sub-questions are focused on one thing: goals.

Your career objectives are holistic: both what you want to DO, and what you want to ACHIEVE (what impact you want to have through your career). The “achieve” part may be brief, but it animates and gives purpose to the whole essay (indeed, the whole application). The “do” part should be specific, in terms of position(s), industry, possibly company(ies), and, in this section, geography as well. The alternatives are essentially your “Plan B” – if the alternatives are primarily for the shorter-term goals, note how/why they’re another viable path to your long-term goals. If the alternative is for a longer-term goal (it’s not unusual for someone, reasonably, to consider starting a venture way down the road), make sure it’s coherent with the other elements. Be thoughtful about this alternative section, but don’t spend a lot of space on it.

Not least, identify the key steps you are taking toward your goals. Of course, attending LBS is one such step. I do suggest noting other steps too (at least one more), as it builds credibility for your seriousness in “doing what it takes” to get where you want to go. In mentioning LBS and any other steps, briefly note why – how they will contribute to your achieving your goals.

Question 2: What specific areas of London Business School life are you most excited about getting involved in and where do you believe you will add value to the School Community? (maximum 300 words)

This essay allows you to do two important things:

• Demonstrate understanding of the LBS community overall
• Highlight interesting and/or impressive aspects of your life and experience

Really focus on the LBS community in this essay. In discussing the areas you’d like to get involved in, select 2-3 and try to include something beyond work – perhaps there are sports or social clubs, or a volunteer initiative, that you’d like to join. Of course, it’s fine to mention professional clubs and organizations as well. How you’ll add value can include these activities, but it can also be broader, to include what you’ll bring to the table based on your experiences and unique perspective. But interesting facts alone don’t show how you’ll add value; you need to include your insight to make it meaningful.

If you would like professional guidance with your LBS MiF application, check out Accepted’s MiF Application Packages, which include advising, editing, interview coaching, and a resume edit for the LBS MiF application.

London Business School Full Time MiF Application Deadlines:

London Business School Part Time MiF Application Deadlines:

***Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Please check with individual programs to verify the essay questions, instructions and deadlines.***

By Cindy Tokumitsu, has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MBA and EMBA, master, law, PhD and medical programs, with special emphasis on MBA and EMBA and other business programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Get Your Game On: Prepping for Your Grad School Application, a free guide
• MIT Sloan Master in Finance: How to Get In!, a podcast episode
• What Should I Write About? Making a Difference

The post London Business School MiF Application Essay Questions, Tips & Deadlines appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

You know what you want: a Master’s in Finance (MFin, also sometimes MSF).

That goal raises questions, perhaps the most important one being: What does the Master’s in Finance adcom want to see in you, the applicant?

And that leads to two additional critical, practical questions:

• How do you determine what MFin programs are best for you, and what programs you are qualified for? This is about “fit.”

• How do you wrestle with the complex and time-consuming application process? This is about resourcefulness and organization.

These questions represent the basics of MFin applications, and the purpose of this post is to provide you with a clear, comprehensive, usable overview of the MFin application process.

What Masters in Finance Admissions Committees Look for in Applicants

Here are some of the qualifications that the adcom will be seeking:

• Quantitative skills overall

While MFin programs don’t usually require applicants to have specific quantitative coursework, it is essential to provide evidence of quant capability. University of Texas/Austin’s Master’s in Finance website puts it nicely. They say that they are seeking: “mathematical aptitude and demonstrated ability to handle quantitative material.” This can be done through transcripts, test scores, and sometimes work or internships.

• Your undergrad transcript

The adcom will likely first glimpse at two pivotal elements of the transcript: your overall GPA and your major. For most MFin programs, you don’t need to have a quant or finance major, but the adcom will look for evidence of quantitative ability in your transcript. The adcom will also consider the rigor of your coursework and your undergrad institution. They’ll “read” your GPA – does it trend up or down, does it rise or fall in certain types of courses, etc.

• Test scores

Whether you take the GMAT or GRE, the quant score will be critical – especially if your transcript isn’t super quant-heavy. A low quant score will be problematic, so prepare and prepare some more! Since many MFin applicants are non-US citizens, let’s not forget the language tests: TOEFL or IELTS. Some programs have minimums for these scores, so check each school’s criteria carefully.

• Understanding of and genuine zeal for finance

“Finance” sounds kind of sexy (Money! Power! Influence! Fast pace! High stakes!), and the adcoms want to ensure that applicants truly understand the industry in its nitty-gritty, grueling reality and are making an informed decision to pursue it. For applicants to post-experience programs, their resume provides this proof. For early career applicants, evidence of this understanding can come from coursework in finance, internships, work experience, even informational interviews, and self-directed reading.

• Amount of professional experience

There are basically two types of MFin programs. Most MFin programs target early career applicants, which means anywhere from zero to two years of full-time work experience. While such programs usually do not explicitly refuse to consider older applicants, they rarely admit them, and instead often direct them to the MBA program (I have seen this firsthand). Some MFin programs, such as London Business School, target people with more experience, in LBS’ case, 3-8 years. Either way, the programs usually provide specific information on the experience level they seek on their websites.

• Quality of professional experience

While early career programs do not require actual work experience in finance, they do want to see hands-on exposure, ideally via internships, to the field. Among internships, some are better than others – blue chip firms over unknowns, investment banking or asset management over accounting, etc. But it all helps. For applicants to programs for people with experience, your work should be of an appropriate level and show that you are a high performer.

• Personal qualities

MFin graduates will be in the finance business, and that means they must be able to work in teams, communicate, take initiative, and sometimes lead. They should be ethical, civil, engaged. Beyond those basics, the adcom is looking for a range of personalities – they don’t want only gregarious and assertive Type A’s. If you’re reserved and bookish, great – show that this quality gives you unique awareness and perspective (maybe even wit). Let your real personality shine through. To the extent the application allows, portray your outside interests, to show you have a life beyond finance.

• Prospective contributions to the program

This contribution can relate to your specific finance exposure and what you learned from it, your life experiences, your cultural heritage and how it shapes your perspective and values, your passions and involvements – the adcom wants a diverse range of people who will, in some way, enhance the social and academic environment; who will enrich their classmates’ perspectives and experience in the program.

• Career goals

Last but certainly not least. Most MFin applications will ask you to describe your career goals, often your immediate post-program goals. This means specifics, details: what area of finance, what kind of company, what position. Your goals should be realistic and yet appropriately ambitious. Also, briefly clarify why you want to do this. Your goals discussion will provide critical evidence to the adcom that you understand the industry, are focused professionally, and stand a good chance of succeeding. (You could also note how your goals align with the given program’s recruiting, if relevant.)

How to Find the Right Masters in Finance Programs for You

There are lots of MFin programs out there. Here is a straightforward process to efficiently narrow them down and zoom in on those that are right for you.

• Identify what you need and want in a program

Some people are more flexible than others, for myriad reasons. Identify your “must haves,” which may include a specific strength or focus (e.g., risk, analytics, etc. – which often align with other currently important disciplines), a geographic region, or recruiting by certain types of companies. “Wants” come next: they are the qualities that attract you, but you can live without (would love a major city, would settle for a suburban campus; would love an Ivy brand, would settle for top-20).

• Evaluate your competitiveness

Key pillars of your competitiveness are GPA and undergrad transcript, test scores, and experience/exposure to finance (see the preceding section). Look at the student profiles on websites of various MFin programs and see how you compare in these dimensions. This exercise will give you an idea of your relative competitiveness. You can then determine what schools for you would be reaches, on-pars, and safeties.

• Research schools

Look at curriculum structure and content, recruiting stats, clubs and activities, school culture, etc. Get a sense for what excites you, and what if anything turns you off.

• Make your list

Integrating the info from the three steps above, make your list of target schools. People who want to attend an MFin program no matter what should include some reaches, on-pars, and safeties. Others may find the MFin only worthwhile if they attend a top-ranked program, and they will reasonably have only reaches.

And now for the real heavy lifting…

Putting Your Masters in Finance Application Together

Each of the various application components gives you space to further distinguish yourself, convey messages you deem strategically beneficial, and – like the whoosh of a magic wand – turn facts, figures, and information into a living, breathing human being. One the adcom wants to admit.

Here we go – my advice below largely pertains to MFin applications, as general advice on these elements is available elsewhere.

Resume

For early career applicants, if internships are your main exposure to the field of finance, spotlight them and provide some detail about what you did. For experienced applicants, be sure to show your impact and contribution to your company and industry. For both groups, add detail in experiences that reflect unusual or interesting aspects of finance, which will enhance your potential to contribute to the program.

Essays

On the surface, many MFin applicants will seem similar in terms of academics, experience, and goals. Here is your chance to tell your individual story of how you came to finance. It needn’t be dramatic or exotic – it’s unique because there’s only one of its kind. Even a very short goals essay can be used to that effect, giving your application a personal voice. In discussing goals, also mention your vision, what you want to make happen. And don’t hesitate to “show the love” for the program with thoughtful points about how it supports your goals.

Recommendations

Early career applicants will likely use a mix of professors and internship or work recommenders. To avoid generic recommendations when using professors, discuss with them why you are applying to an MFin program and what your goals are. For experienced applicants, select recommenders who will discuss your contributions to the field/industry and your unique perspective, as well as your impacts and strengths.

Interview

Usually this step means you’ve cleared one bar, as most MFin programs do a “first cut” for interviews. So, go in confident! Before the interview, further research the program and the areas of finance most pertinent to you.

Keep an eye out for more, shorter posts that dig into some of the topics mentioned in this overview. Contact me at Accepted if you are interested in consulting with me as you apply to Masters in Finance programs.

Cindy Tokumitsu has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MFin, MBA and EMBA, and other graduate management programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Fitting In & Standing Out: the Paradox at the Heart of Admissions, a free guide
• 16 Grad School Application Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make, a podcast episode
• Why Should I Apply to Graduate School Now?

The post How to Get Accepted to Masters in Finance Programs appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

Your undergrad GPA and GMAT or GRE score are pillars of your Masters in Finance (MFin or MSF) application. What can you do to integrate these elements – whether high, average, or low – effectively in your application? Follow these 4 steps to evaluate your scores for your Masters in Finance application.

1) Understand How Masters in Finance Adcoms Evaluate Your GPA and GMAT/GRE

The GPA and GMAT/GRE test scores are viewed holistically by the adcom, but it’s still important to understand how these elements complement each other in the evaluation process.

• GPA: While the overall GPA is important, the admissions committee seeks strength in quantitative courses. So, if you are a history major with a 3.75 GPA overall but 3.1 in your few quant courses, the adcom may question your quant ability. If you’re an econ major with a 3.2 overall, but A’s in rigorous quant courses, the 3.2 will be mitigated by the quant grades – the adcom will not doubt your quant ability. If your overall GPA is low but trends up, the adcom will likely weight those later years more (especially if they include tough quant courses). On the other hand, a significant downward trend may require an explanation and be hard to overcome.

• GMAT/GRE: You should have a strong quant score in either test. “Strong” for the most competitive programs means above 90%; and it’s above 80% roughly for others. The verbal score matters, but it needn’t be fabulous. For test prep, focus primarily on getting your quant score as high as possible.

Remember, a very high quant score or grades can somewhat mitigate less than desirable results in the other. (If they’re both low, perhaps you should reevaluate MFin plans, at least at top programs.)

2) Evaluate Your GPA and Test Scores

Given the above, evaluate your own GPA and test impression. Determine relative strengths and weaknesses. Is it overall great, overall worrying, a mix of both? Is it “okay” all around? Each of these scenarios presents its own challenges (yes, even “overall great”) for your masters in finance application strategy.

3) Determine Mitigation Steps if Necessary

You can’t change your GPA, but if it needs mitigating, first, as noted above, go all out in test prep, and score as high as possible. The following actions may help:

• Consider taking a relevant online course or two and earning A’s. While you may not have time to finish it before applying, you can mention it in optional essays.

• Similarly, participate in the CFA program. The Level 1 test includes some quantitative content along with other directly relevant material; a “pass” will not prove you are a mathematical genius but will contribute to a profile of quantitative competence.

• Make sure multiple parts of your application reflect your ability to use sophisticated quantitative methods during internships or jobs.

• Ask recommenders to describe your quantitative strengths and capabilities.

4) Use Your Grades & Test Scores to Guide Your School Research

Compare your GPA and test scores to those of admitted students in MFin programs. Not all schools thoroughly detail this information, but if you examine “student profiles” in school websites, you will see where your GPA and scores place you competitively.

View our Masters in Finance Application Package for step-by-step guidance through the admissions process. Work one-on-one with me or one of the my expert admissions consultant colleagues…and get ACCEPTED to your top-choice MFin program! 

Cindy Tokumitsu has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MFin, MBA and EMBA, and other graduate management programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• Fitting In and Standing Out: The Paradox at the Heart of Admissions, a free guide
• How to Get Accepted to Masters in Finance Programs
• Should You Take the GMAT or GRE Exam?

The post How Your Undergrad GPA & Test Scores Affect Your Masters in Finance Application appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

Whether you’re applying to an early career Masters in Finance program (MFin or MSF) or one for experienced finance professionals, you’ll be writing a goals essay. It may be 100 words or 750, or anything in between – but I haven’t yet seen a Masters in Finance application that doesn’t ask for goals.

Make your goals appropriate for the program

Most MFin programs target very specific professional experience levels, e.g. 0-2 years, 2-3 years, 3+ years. And, obviously, career goals (at least the short-term ones) will be different for each of these groups. This experience level is key because the adcoms want to admit people who will get hired, and their recruiters target the same age/experience level they do – it’s symbiotic.

Two points on understanding what MFin programs are looking for:

• Most MFin programs targeting 0-2 years of experience are seeking upcoming or recent college grads. If you’re transitioning into finance from another career at, say, age 30, you may have 0 years of finance experience, but most early-career MFin programs are not interested in you. They know their recruiters are looking for the youngsters.

• Know the type of finance company you want to work for and make sure your target programs attract recruiters from such companies. Finance career tracks in corporate finance, retail banks, investment banks, asset managers, and hedge funds differ. Your goals essay should demonstrate knowledge of your area of interest within finance, and of the program’s related career services.

Information to include in your Masters in Finance goals essay or statement

“Financial analyst in a major company” is not good enough. Specificity is essential for 2 main reasons:

1. Credibility: Specificity shows you are serious and have taken the time to plan and prepare for your future career.

2. Differentiation: Many MFin applicants have similar goals, but your motivations, your experience, and your perspective all are uniquely yours.

So, which details should you include?

• For short-term goals, include: Desired sector within finance, type of company (mentioning 1-2 examples is fine), ideal position, expected scope of responsibilities, why this position appeals to you, and what you hope to achieve in it. Geography may also be relevant.

• For long-term goals, include: Your target position or level of responsibility (e.g. you hope to become a CFO but it’s that scope of accountability that’s important, as companies don’t always adhere to the same titlest/structure) and desired impact (think legacy). This is obviously and appropriately less detailed than your short-term goals – it should indicate a clear and logical direction rather than a detailed plan.

Balancing short-term and long-term goals in the goals essay question

To get this balance right, be guided by the actual essay questions. For example:

• If a question asks for short-term goals, don’t write most of the essay about your long-term dream (I’ve seen this).

• If it asks about goals without specifying short- or long-term, you must decide how much to allocate to short-term and long-term. My advice is to allocate more space to and be more detailed in short-term goals. And then sketch a longer-term career vision.

When to present a “Plan B” goal in your Masters in Finance application

You don’t have a crystal ball, and the adcoms know that. You don’t have set goals in stone, and if you have a backup plan, or a Plan B, that’s okay. Consider the following:

• For the short-term goal: It makes sense to have a Plan B when you are new to finance and/or know your ideal short-term goal might be hard to achieve. Briefly sketch a viable Plan B that will also take you to your long-term goal.

• For the long-term goal: It’s perfectly reasonable to envision two possible future paths once you’ve gotten traction in your finance career – e.g., considering both advancing in a company and starting a venture. In such a case, focus on one (of greater interest now) and cite the second as an attractive second option.

Both these Plan B scenarios show you to be thoughtful, in tune with uncertain reality, and resourceful.

Goals issues for early-career (0-2 years) Masters in Finance applicants

You likely have interned in some finance environment(s), but your professional experience – where you are accountable for significant outcomes – is limited. Your key challenges are:

• Understanding the substance of your target post-graduation role(s): For example, how can you show you’re making an informed decision if you haven’t had firsthand exposure to these roles?

SOLUTION: Research, including ideally informational interviews, to get the nitty-gritty, and include the resulting insight in your essay.

• Just getting a good first job seems daunting: Articulating a long-term plan feels absurd at this early point!

SOLUTION: Have some fun mentally sketching out a career path that you like and present it in that tentative light. E.g., “At this point, I’m excited to consider eventually doing X or Y…” You don’t have to say that you’ve got this all worked out.

Goals issues for experienced applicants

You have other challenges:

• Incorporating your experience into your goals: It’s not always intuitive or easy, especially if your experience and goals diverge (maybe you’re in sell side and want to shift to buy side).

SOLUTION: Identify and portray relevant skills, industry perspectives, and types of knowledge you’ve gained that will benefit you in your future role.

• Matching your target short-term position to the level recruited for: Out of early-career territory, there is more variability in recruiting practices.

SOLUTION: Research the program’s career services and recruitment stats. If you don’t see the stats on the program’s website, contact career services or admissions and ask what types of positions their recruiters typically look to fill.

Upcoming posts will dig into other aspects of applying to Masters in Finance programs. Contact me to learn more about how Accepted’s one-on-one admissions advising can help you achieve your educational and career goals.

Cindy Tokumitsu, has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MFin, MBA and EMBA, and other graduate management programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• From Example to Exemplary, a guide to writing outstanding application essays
• 16 Grad School Application Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make, a podcast episode
• How Your Undergrad GPA & Test Scores Affect Your Masters in Finance Application

The post Know Your Career Goals for Your Masters in Finance Application appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

You’re qualified for a Master’s in Finance (MFin or MSF) program. Great. But that’s only the starting point. Given how competitive MFin programs are, most people they reject are qualified – often highly qualified. Given these circumstances, distinguishing yourself is essential.

Yet many applicants are similar in various ways. If you do not have a natural, immediately identifiable differentiator, how do you convince the adcom to admit you over accomplished others from your educational background, geographic region, and/or industry? How do you set yourself apart and shine?

Sometimes, rather than running from the element of similarity, it’s better to go deep into it. Provide the personal, detailed, insightful perspective that only you have and that represents value to your future classmates.

Let’s explore the main types of similarities and how to address them.

Geographic and/or Ethnic Background

It’s no secret that certain geographic and ethnic groups are over-represented in the MFin applicant pools and student bodies. The biggest group is East Asians with China a large part of that – in many MFin programs, East Asians comprise 50% or more of the class. This group is followed in much smaller percentages by South Asians, with of course India being the largest segment. The Europeans are the next largest group, but it is pretty small compared to the East Asians, with Russians a significant segment. Beyond these groups, there is a sprinkling of South, Central, and North Americans; Africans; and Southeast Asians.

Here are some ways to stand out if you’re in the biggest 1-2 groups – not all points will be relevant to all people, but at least some will resonate for you.

• When mentioning your country in essays, don’t use country name (China, India); instead, cite the city or region and if possible a telling detail or two to enliven the discussion and “picture.”

• Weave in your cultural background in a meaningful and relevant way, e.g. indicating how it influenced your thinking on the proper role of finance in society. Don’t just write theoretically or in generalities, but rather provide a brief example to illustrate your point.

• If your goals involve returning to your country, address what you hope to achieve and contribute there, in specific terms, and why.

Educational Background

You majored in Economics, right? Like maybe 70-80% of MFin applicants. No? Then, let me guess… It was Statistics, or Finance, or Mathematics. Scanning MIT’s 2018 class, these majors account for 100% of the students with some variations (okay, Applied Mathematics). And I did discover a couple of unusual second majors: Political Science, Philosophy…

The message seems clear: your educational background won’t help you stand out; it’s just a qualification.

Not so fast. You might get more mileage out of those hard-earned A’s in your econ (or math or stats) major than you think.

• What initially intrigued you about your major? What was unexpected for you about this course of study? How did it change your perspective or thinking? Answers to these and similar questions will let the adcom see you in a deeper light (and they might even see something fresh in econ too!).

• In what ways did your major required self-directed, independent effort and/or how did it involve teamwork? How did you do in these capacities? Addressing such questions with examples may showcase your individual interests and strengths, and if you identify a weakness – say you realized you needed to improve your collaboration skills – it shows welcome maturity and resourcefulness as well.

• Did you formally or informally tutor others less talented in math or econ? How did succeeding (or failing) in the effort make you feel? What did you learn? This avenue of discussion may add a rich facet to your application.

Internships and Work Experience

If you’re an early-career applicant, chances are you’ve interned in the same types of organizations and similar/same roles as other applicants. If you’re applying to programs for experienced applicants, you have a similar challenge but less so, because your career has required you to develop an individual track record and the perspective that goes with it.

Here are tips for making the most of your experience for both groups:

• Early career applicants: Use the “zoom lens” – in essays, talk about specific projects and what you learned. Give anecdotes and details. For interns, the titles and tasks may be the same, but the people you interact with, the organizational culture and dynamics, the way you respond to given opportunities and challenges, will be inherently unique.

• For experienced applicants: Avoid “did-this-did-that” discussions in essays. Rather, portray how you did significant things, your thinking behind a bold step, why a significant impact was meaningful and resonated to you. Detail how your influence ripples out and how you absorb, digest, and implement important lessons.

And… remember those poli sci and philosophy double-majors? If you’re a Chinese applicant who majored in Economics, interned at Morgan Stanley, AND are an expert bread maker or tango aficionado – please, somehow, somewhere, let the adcom know! Such counter-stereotypical elements tend to be instantly memorable…

Previous and upcoming posts will dig into other aspects of applying to Master’s in Finance programs. And feel free to contact me at Accepted if you are interested in consulting with me or my Accepted colleagues as you apply to MiF programs.

Cindy Tokumitsu has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MFin, MBA, EMBA and other graduate management programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• 5 Fatal Flaws to Avoid in Your Grad School Statement of Purpose, a free guide
• Focus on Fit, a podcast episode
• Standing Out By Showing You Have a Unique Perspective [Fitting in & Standing Out]

The post Distinguishing Yourself as a Masters in Finance Applicant appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

Your professional experience probably isn’t all that different from that of other Master’s in Finance (MFin or MSF) applicants. And you worry it won’t stand out. Maybe you feel it’s not interesting or dramatic enough to captivate adcom readers.

DON’T WORRY!

Only you have your experience; in a sense, you are your experience. So, it is inherently unique. That is why your experience should form the core of your essays.

And all of your MFin essays – your personal statements, statements of purpose, and goals essays – should include your actual experience. The more your real experience forms the muscle, bone, and sinew of the essay, the more individual, distinctive, and interesting the essay will be.

Which experiences should you present in your Masters of Finance application?

Different people will present different types of experiences. Follow these tips to choose the best experiences for you:

1. Be strategic about the selection of experience to bring into your essays.

   I often suggest to my clients that, when possible, make the essays, and the experiences portrayed in them, do “double duty,” e.g., a given story might underscore your ability to handle a quantitatively demanding role and simultaneously spotlight your teamwork skills or deftness in managing up or willingness to mentor a less quant-savvy colleague.

2. For early-career applicants, delve into your internships. 

   Select experiences/stories that show you effectively navigating the organizational arena and interacting effectively; perhaps displaying leadership (formal or informal). In addition, mine senior thesis research projects, club participation roles, volunteer and extracurricular experiences, etc. for experiences that are both relevant and distinctive.

3. For experienced applicants, bring in professional experiences showing you adeptly handling current challenges. 

   And show that you understand the realities in the finance world and have integrated that knowledge and experience into your toolkit, perspective, and/or goals.

4. Provide anecdotal evidence of leadership.

   This applies to experienced and inexperienced applicants. Demonstrate your leadership skills, even though it’s not usually explicitly required by MFin adcoms.

5. Use stories that contain relatively recent experiences. 

   Recent experiences reflect the current person who is applying (some people are fast out of the starting gate but don’t have staying power), and they give the adcom a sense of the talents and attributes you will bring to the table.

6. Discuss an older experience only in certain situations.

   If you do decide to share an older experience, (a) make sure that you ALSO have a recent one or two, and (b) link it to the present somehow, e.g., show you’re applying a lesson learned, or a quality gained, or insight developed.

7. Use experiences that show you conversant and engaged in a given area within finance. 

   MFin applicants come from and are interested in a range of industry segments – and this is fine, so highlight your specific area of expertise!

How should you present experience in your Masters of Finance application?

Imagine sitting at a café (or a bar ) and recounting to a colleague or friend an interesting recent experience you had. You don’t cite every detail but rather convey just the details relevant to that particular conversation, and you supplement the facts of the story with brief reflections or elaborations of what you were thinking or feeling at a pivotal moment. You slow down when approaching the turning point. You wrap up with a brief comment or look back (“I learned a lot, but I really hope I never have to go through that again!”).

Well, that is the approach you’ll take in presenting experiences in your essays – simply narrate the story as you’d tell it to someone. Adapted, of course, for length and relevance.

Managing length and relevance in your storytelling

The story of an experience may comprise a whole essay, a paragraph within an essay, or a sentence or two within a paragraph. To incorporate experiences within a goals essay, which I encourage you to do, most likely it will be the last situation. And yes, you can tell a story in one sentence: “After weeks of preparation, a cancelled flight caused our team to miss the presentation in Kuala Lumpur, but to my dejected teammates’ surprise I found telecon resources at the airport and we did the presentation from there!”

The ABCs of narrating a story:

• Attract the reader’s interest by setting the scene, which includes where, when, what, why, and who (or at least most of these elements).

• Be a storyteller: tell the story as it occurred.

• Conclude the story by relating results, changes, and outcomes that stemmed from the story.

Three additional tips to make your experience as interesting, exciting, meaningful, vivid, and memorable as possible:

1. Be specific. I’ve seen many sentences like, “On the highest profile project involving the most complex systems at the global client organization, we achieved ground-breaking outcomes that satisfied all stakeholders.” Well…

   • What project specifically, and what makes it “high profile”?

   • What complex systems exactly?

   • What global client organization? (if you can’t name the client, at least indicate industry)

   • What specific outcomes? What was the actual impact?

   • What stakeholders exactly – who are they?

2. Clarify what’s at stake. The higher the stakes, the better.

3. In a story, something changes; the starting point is different than the ending point. Frequently the main character has evolved (sometimes you and sometimes your team, department, and/or organization). Make sure to spotlight this development.

Learn more about applying to Masters in Finance programs by reading these additional MFin-focused posts.

Looking for one-on-one advising to help you through the MFin application process? Check out our Master’s in Finance Admissions Services for more information on how we can help you get ACCEPTED.

Cindy Tokumitsu has advised hundreds of successful applicants, helping them gain acceptance to top MFin, MBA, EMBA and other graduate management programs in her 15+ years with Accepted. She would love to help you too. Want Cindy to help you get Accepted? Click here to get in touch!

Related Resources:

• From Example to Exemplary, free guide to writing outstanding application essays
• 4 Pillars of a Splendid Statement of Purpose, a short video
• What is an Accomplishment?

The post How to Portray Experiences in Your Masters in Finance Essays appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

The Masters in Finance degree is one of the most up and coming specialized masters programs in the business world.

Listen to the recording of our conversation with Anthony DeAngelis, owner and founder of Masters in Finance HQ, for the low-down on his company, the MSF degree, and the world of finance.

00:03:35 – The bored (but not boring!) beginnings of MSFHQ .

00:06:03 – What do financial analysts really do?

00:13:37 – Different types of MSF/MiF programs and what kind of candidates they are looking for.

00:16:40 – Can liberal arts grads go the finance route?

00:19:30 – A word about the schools that require work experience.

00:21:28 – Plenty of work to go around in the finance industry.

00:23:47 – Guidelines for the MSF vs. MBA vs. Financial Engineering Degree decision.

00:27:58 –Financial services are rebounding. What does the future hold?

00:34:56 – What’s changed the most at MSFHQ.

00:36:45 – Advice for people considering the MSF.

*Theme music is courtesy of podcastthemes.com.

Related Links:

• MSFHQ
• Accepted.com Services Section (SUMMER Sale ends on July 15!)
• What is a Masters in Finance?

Related Shows:

• The Facts About Financial Services
• Which Schools are Good for PE/VC and VC-Backed Entrepreneurship 
• Business, Law and Beyond: An Interview with John Engelman
• Case Interview Secrets and More with Victor Cheng

Subscribe to Admissions Straight Talk:

The post Masters in Finance: What You Need to Know appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

Being amazing is just a qualification for the Princeton University Master in Finance program. But if you qualify, get admitted (about 30 out of 600 applicants do), and choose to attend (about 25 out of that 30), I believe you enter heaven.

 • All your classmates are not just extremely bright and passionate about finance; they also represent experience from across the industry – and they are chosen in part because they can communicate their insights from that experience.

• There is 100% recruitment for summer internships at the most desirable institutions, and almost 100% post-graduation employment (2014). These internships/jobs span the globe—Mexico City, Singapore, Hong Kong, London, and various cities in the US as well as NYC.

• A curriculum that is intensive and deep; following the core you can either develop your own study program or pursue 1of 3 course tracks: Financial Engineering and Risk Management, Quantitative Asset Management and Macroeconomic Forecasting, and Financial Technologies.

• Career “boot camps” where alumni, industry experts, and academics help you formulate a career path that is meaningful to you and productively employs your skills, talents, interests.

• World-renowned faculty (think Alan Blinder, Paul Krugman) from multiple disciplines who don’t just teach sophisticated skills but who engage passionately in ideas, thereby helping you become a thought leader in the field.

So what’s the ticket to heaven?

Academics – A high GPA and a transcript that reflects a strong quantitative component – many applicants have degrees in subjects such as mathematics, economics, and engineering, but it is not required and they have admitted people from a range of disciplines (though there are certain math requirements). A grad degree is “a plus but not required.”

Standardized tests – Both GMAT and GRE are accepted; the median quant GRE score is 167 and the average quant GMAT score is 49.5. That said, a high quant score doesn’t make up for weak quant coursework. If your undergrad school was not taught in English (or if it was taught in English in a non-English speaking country), either the TOEFL or IELTS is also required.

Interviews are by invitation only, and selected applicants will be notified. Others are discouraged from seeking interviews.

Experience – Professional experience is not required; however the adcom wants to see some practical industry exposure via internships at least – they note that potential employers look for this experience. So the program is open to new graduates who have had an internship or two – but make sure you have something substantive to say based on your experience; your competition will.

Qualitative factors – You may be surprised that in the adcom’s eyes it is the qualitative factors that “set applicants apart”! The adcom specifically looks for strong communication ability, expecting its students to contribute within a highly intelligent cohort and to become leaders in the industry. More than anything, it seeks passion for finance. Even if you’re a quant geek, don’t think there’s a formula for this passion – it must be expressed through application contents holistically. The adcom members will know it when they see it.

Finally, be sure this is the right degree for you. As the website states, it’s not the right program for people pursuing corporate finance or investment bank M&A; but the MiF “is becoming the preferred degree in the trading and asset management areas of the I-bank.”

By Cindy Tokumitsu, author and co-author of numerous ebooks, articles, and special reports, including Why MBA and Best MBA Programs: A Guide to Selecting the Right One. Cindy has advised hundreds of successful applicants in her fifteen years with Accepted.com.

Related Resources:

• The Facts About Financial Services
• Where Does Wall St. Hire: U.S. B-Schools Sending Grads into Financial Services
• What is Passion in Admissions?

The post Princeton University Master in Finance: Is It Right for You, and Are You Right for Princeton? appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.

HEC Paris Business School just announced the launch of its new MBA-MIF program in a press release Monday. The 20-month program (16 months for the MBA and 10 months for the Masters in Finance) will provide students with an integrated curriculum, allowing for different tracks for students with different skills and experience levels. Within the MBA component of the program, students will be able specialize in entrepreneurship, strategy, or general management, and combine that with the finance specialization in the MIF component. Students will receive “early intensive training in finance, thereby enhancing preparation for banking and consulting interviews.”

Upon completion of the dual degree program, students will receive an MBA and an MSc in International Finance.

According to Jacques Olivier, HEC Paris Professor of Finance and Program Director, “The financial crisis has challenged business schools to find new ways to equip their graduates with the right set of knowledge, skills and values. HEC Paris has designed the MBA-MIF dual degree for young professionals who wish to acquire not only the general management education and leadership skills from a leading MBA program, but also advanced technical knowledge in finance to differentiate themselves from their peers. This unique combination will allow dual degree students to fast-track onto senior management positions within finance and consulting.”

See the HEC Paris website for more information on the MBA-MIF program.

For advice on how to get accepted to HEC Paris, please see our HEC Paris B-School Zone.

Related Resources:

• Which Business School Will Get Me to Wall Street?
• Vault’s 2015 Banking Rankings
• The Facts About Financial Services

The post HEC Paris Launches New MBA-MIF Program appeared first on Accepted Admissions Blog.