LBS or INSEAD or HEC for VC?

Question

Hi,

I’ll soon be applying to MiM programs at these three schools and wonder which one provides me the best chance to break into VC in Europe. (I am a B2 in French, but generally don’t care where I work, provided that it’s somewhere in Europe). Which one would you recommend?

Top100MBA.Club · Answer

All 3 are top programs and not much to chose from in terms of your post-MIM goals. If you get into all 3 I would recommend making a decision based on which program will cost you the least. One other way would be speaking to alumni of all 3 schools who've broken into VC in Europe. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn search for the same and then make a decision based on their feedback. Best, Divesh Founder & Managing Consultant https://Top100MBA.Club WAPP:+912231989175 Posted from my mobile device

admitStreet · Answer

@ bbbg5 - While all 3 are great programs, I would suggest considering these factors to help prioritize: 1. VC recruitment gets primarily driven by networking and internships, besides past relevant experience (if any). London has a locational advantage in terms of being a global financial hub. Paris too has a vibrant scene (which is growing well), and some VC firms/ roles may require B2 (or above) French. Your personal preference would play a major factor in the geographical decision i.e. do you prefer staying in London/ UK, or want wider access and mobility within EU (France/ Germany etc.). If former, LBS would suit well and if latter, HEC/ INSEAD would. 2. INSEAD's MiM program is relatively new(er) compared to the other two. While this shouldn't be a point of concern (given the school's overall brand and network are very strong), it's something to factor in. 3. Looking at the employment reports to identify what % of the class (over the past 3-5 years) joined VC can provide more objective data points, which can be augmented by speaking to alumni in such roles. This would also give you a broader idea of the culture/ "vibe", which is also a key factor to consider as you'd be spending time and capital. Hope this helps a bit. Feel free to reach out through the link(s) below with your profile if you'd like to have a deeper conversation. Regards, Arvind Founder, admitStreet | HEC Paris MBA alum & Former Admissions Interviewer W: https://admitstreet.com | LinkedIn | E: consultingteam@admitstreet.com

pintukr · Answer

Does the HEC's MiM programmme mandatorily require a valid GMAT score?

admitStreet · Answer

HEC MiM mandatorily requires a GMAT (Classic/ Focus) or GRE (older/ newer version) or TageMage (this is primarily for French candidates) score.

Regards,
Arvind
Founder, admitStreet | HEC Paris MBA alum & Former Admissions Interviewer
W:  https://admitstreet.com  |  LinkedIn  | E:  consultingteam@admitstreet.com

MBAGuide · Answer

bbbg5 Hope this finds you well. You have not mentioned your background, but that should also play an important part in your decision. If you are not from the UK or even remotely from the EU, you should have LBS at the top of your list because of the visa feasibility. Having a B2 in French is great, but it will certainly take more than that if you want to work in francophone companies in France after the MBA. This will be difficult if you are a non Native. INSEAD is another good option, even though the MiM program is still relatively new, but if you have the ability to tap into the alumni network and land entry-level analyst positions at VC firms, go for it. If you choose INSEAD or HEC and can not find entry-level VC jobs in the UK or EU, the scene is also very much alive in the Middle East. You just need to know what your options are. On a side note, I would strongly recommend you to start networking with industry people now and take every opportunity for an internship. At your age, every little initiative counts for your chances. Get personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Reach out to us if you need help navigating your unique circumstances in the B School admissions process. We do not cap discussion hours. Best wishes Aanchal Sahni (INSEAD alum, former INSEAD admissions interviewer) Founder, MBAGuideConsulting LinkedIn |WEBSITE: https://mbaguideconsulting.com/ | Message: +91 9971200927| email- mbaguideconsulting@gmail.com

mysterymanrog · Answer

Since venture capital recruiting can be quite random and less structured than other choices, it may be wise to maximise your time spent as a student. Therefore, HEC MiM would likely be the better option, but you certainly won't go wrong with LBS.

LBS or INSEAD or HEC for VC?

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