I contacted HEC Paris to give pre-application evaluation and this is w

I contacted HEC Paris to give pre-application evaluation and this is what they have said in response to my initial enquiry:

"Thank you for your interest in HEC Paris.

With over 2 years of work experience I would recommend you look at our MBA programs, best suited for your profile (here). Indeed our masters are pre-experience programs geared towards those with 0-3 years maximum of professional experience by the time they start the program."

Since I am only interested in MSc International Finance at HEC, I request them to consider me for that program only, and tell me whether I should go on to apply. To which, they replied:

"Thank you for your email.
I understand your concerns and you will still be able to apply. However, regarding your profile, an MBA program might be a better fit for you. "

The question is, should I still apply to my preferred MSc International Finance program, given their recommendation for me to pursue MBA? Has it happened with somebody that they went against the recommendation of the university, and got into their preferred program?

I really need some guidance here, and would really appreciate your taking the time out.

Hello Louis14,

Thank you for your post. MBA vs. MSc is a question that Personal MBA Coach regularly helps applicants figure out. While HEC Paris is correct in the sense that an MSc in finance is often popular for younger applicants, a large component of your decision should be to consider is your ideal career plan.

For instance, a master’s in finance makes sense for someone who really wants to focus on finance expertise and rise through a narrower path. The MBA would teach you the skills you need to succeed in most companies, and advanced leadership skills to help you assume higher-level roles in an organization.

If MSc International Finance is your preferred program, I see no reason not to apply. However, be prepared to justify why this program best fits your needs and future goals.

Good luck and do not hesitate to reach out to scott@personalmbacoach.com if you have additional questions about your candidacy.

Best,
Personal MBA Coach

Hi Louis,

Thanks for your post. This is a question many people face - to an MBA or a masters, and it largely depends on two things: 1. your level of experience, and 2, your goals.

Schools like HEC are heavily solicited for admission in all of their programs and their recruiters, website, and other systems are in place to help automate or redirect traffic (of candidates and queries) to the right paths and make things as efficient as possible. I'm not sure how many years of experience you currently have - you quoted HEC as mentioning "over 2".

If you're close to 2 years experience, like 3 -5, you probably could still be eligible, and if you are indeed passionate about doing an MSc, because you want a really focused career path in the finance world (versus an MBA, which has a broader focus), then you should feel free to contact the recruiter directly and ask to speak with him or her. It's their job to engage with you. Explain to them why you are clear that an MSc in FIN is the best fit for you, if indeed you still think that, but be sure to research both programs thoroughly to see what they have to offer as you make your case.

Hope that helps! If you'd like more advice, I encourage you to go to https://www.candidate.coach for more details, and we can set up a meeting if you like.

All the best,

Eric Lucrezia
info@candidate.coach