Master of Finance with 640 score - but where?

Question

Hey everyone!

I'd like to do the Masters in Finance next year (preferably spring/ summer intake if possible) with following qualifications:

- B.Sc. in Business Administration, GPA 3.25 (integrated degree program, i.e. combined placement)
- Currently employed as full-time Private Equity Consultant in large accounting/ audit firm (corporate finance department, < 1 year)
- Currently preparing for CFA level 1 exam
- GMAT: 640 (unfortunately stronger in verbal)
- TOEFL: 112

Can you recommend any suitable university for me or assess eligibility for Tier 1 business schools? Thanks!

MSFHQ · Answer

If you are looking in the US, you can apply to Johns Hopkins, Ohio State, U Maryland, Bentley, Brandies, Santa Clara, etc. There are a myriad of choices in that score range. I'd focus on STEM programs primarily (as I assume you are international). Issue with some of these programs is the career options will be more limited there. Not sure what your goals are though.

The lower quant score might raise concern with some programs. What math/stats classes have you taken and what were your grades. This will matter to the adcoms.

The lower quant score might raise concern with some programs. What math/stats classes have you taken and what were your grades. This will matter to the adcoms.

Marlonschi · Answer

Thank you for your fast reply!

I am German, but why would you focus on STEM programs? After finishing my masters degree and CFA, I would like to do VC/ Private Equity (in the long term)

I have taken business mathematics, statistics, finance, investments, accounting, controlling, and taxation (grades ranged between A and B)

Not sure whether I want to go to the US. If so, I thought about USC Marshall or some B-school in Boston. Otherwise I’d like to go to either London or a large Asian city.

Posted from my mobile device

MSFHQ · Answer

I mention STEM programs since they will give you additional time on OPT. International students are having a difficult time finding employment in the states and the extra time is valuable.

TheGraceful · Answer

It all depends upon how impressive your application/story is. If they(admission committees) see a positive trend, a high going graph, chnaces are you may enter a reputed university. Work with an experienced and reputed admission consulting company and decide about the targets and devising the applications.

Hope this helps.

Thanks
The Graceful

Marlonschi · Answer

Thanks so far!

However, I‘m still struggling with my decision to do the 1-year Master in either the US or UK. Does it only make sense to do it in the US if I plan to live and work there permanently afterwards (I’m from Germany btw)?

Posted from my mobile device

Master of Finance with 640 score - but where?

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards