How to Get into Top 10 MFEs
- Ashley Cross
- Jan 8
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 23
When it comes to getting into a MFE with plans of going into buy-side or alpha research, having a STEM degree or a target school can help. (Don't get me wrong: it's still hard with these things too.)
But if you are a non-STEM grad, from a school that is less recognized, or from a fundamental finance background, you'll have a LOT of work to do. The rest of your MFE application needs to shine.
Start with Academics First
First, and foremost, having the pre-reqs and solid A's and B's in them are required for getting into a strong MFE.
That means you have taken, at least:
Calc I & II
Probability & Statistics (Calculus-Based)
Linear Algebra
Intro to Programming / Python Basics
Data Structures & Algorithms
One Finance Class (this could be macro/micro, econometrics, accounting, intro to capital )
These are sometimes required - check with each program you're applying to.
Calc III or Multivariate Calc
Differential Equations (PDE or ODE)
Advanced stats & math coursework show that you are serious about taking quant coursework. These can start to differentiate you from other candidates, especially if you're making solid A's and B's. There are some examples below, but you do NOT have to take all of these courses!
Stochastic Processes / Stochastic Calc
Optimization
Time Series
Numerical Methods
Regression Analysis
Advanced Probability (proof-based)
Advanced Linear Algebra
C++
Machine Learning
Predictive Modeling
Data Mining
Programming - Some programming is needed for MFEs, but you should check the admission requirements and curriculum to know how much. We do not need to see full mastery for admission into a MFE, but programming REALLY comes into play for your Master's level internship search, especially on the buy-side, so I recommend intermediate proficiency in Python before you start your program. Finance is a plus - Most programs just need to see an "interest" in finance, rather than a ton of experience/coursework. That means have at least 1-3 finance-related items highlighted on your application - in your CV, essay, or both.
To really stand out, do a project or get an internship that uses your TECHNICAL skills with financial data/products. Where do you take these classes? Some of my students are completing courses in Linear Algebra, Optimization, Calculus-Based Probability, and Stochastic Processes online through USC, LSU, U Chicago, and Columbia.
Not all programs accept Coursera or Baruch's Pre-MFE toward their pre-requisites, so check with each individual program!
Beyond the Grades, MFEs Care About:
GRE Quant 168+ is needed if you're non-STEM (though I'd emphasize this for STEM and target schools too). A 170 REALLY makes you stand out. Submitting a high GRE score can be useful, even if it's optional - especially if there's another concern/question admissions might have about your application. For example, if you originally scored a C in a pre-req, had a bad first year in college, or have been out of school for a long time, a high GRE Quant score can reassure Admissions that you're ready for technically and time intensive coursework.
Letters of recommendation should be VERY strong too: speaking to your technical skills + what it's been like to work with you heavily.
Technical internships or research projects (as in programming or stats) are going to help you secure these LoR writers and enhance your admissions chances.
Internships & Experience are a Big Differentiator
Multiple technical internships or work experiences may be preferred for Admissions but not required.
HOWEVER, you're going to be a stronger candidate for admission if you have them... AND you're going to be in a better position to start applying for Master's level internships earlier.
At this time, MOST students start recruiting for summer Master's internships between May and July - usually before they start a single MFE class. If you want to work on the buy-side, plan to enter your graduate program with 2-3 strong technical internships/experiences on your CV (stats/ML + programming). The sooner you get a buy-side QR internship on your resume (before or during your MFE), the more likely you are to land one for full-time. (And, to land those internships, you need to get really damn good at those online assessments.)
In general, I recommend students enter their MFE with 1-2 technical internships and 1-2 technical projects involving financial datasets.
One of the Biggest Mistakes Candidates Make
Many students don't get into a MFE, or don't like their internship/employment outcome from the MFE, because they have failed to adequately research the program.
This is why a good number of my MFE students come to me. They realize that their program or experience won't get them closer to their career goal and they need more intensive guidance.
That is why you need to learn both:
a) what does admissions really care about?
b) does the program actually produces interns & graduates doing what you want to do?
Different MFEs prioritize different parts of the application
Berkeley values technical work experience.
CMU looks for strong grades in rigorous courses & a high Quant GRE.
U Chicago places a lot of weight on strong Letters of Recommendation.
Pay attention to these parts of a program's website:
admissions requirements,
curriculum & electives,
incoming class profile,
employment outcomes (consider the hiring companies, roles, locations, salaries),
and student/alumni spotlights.
If you're targeting buy-side, but you're going into a program that sends 85% of students to investment banks, you're setting yourself up for a more difficult search.
Make time for information sessions & conversations with current students for program-specific insights!
Thinking about pursuing a MFE to break into quant roles?
Book a 1:1 with me to evaluate your candidate profile or learn how Career+ helps candidates break into quant - whether that's for internship, full-time, or to gain admission into a MFE program.
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