u/Federal_Candy_2054

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to decide between two offers and would really appreciate honest advice from people in the industry.

I have offers from:

• Bayes Business School – MSc Banking & International Finance
• Warwick Business School – MSc Financial Technology

Background:

• Engineering graduate (non-finance)
• ~2 year work experience (tech/data-focused role)
• Looking to pivot into high finance

Goals:

• Primary: Investment Banking (London)
• Secondary: Strategy consulting
• Backup: Product/FinTech roles

Concerns:

• I know breaking into IB is already difficult as an international student
• I will be heavily relying on networking
• Warwick has a stronger overall brand, but Bayes is in London
• Bayes course is more finance-focused, but not pure MSc Finance
• Warwick FinTech seems less directly aligned with IB
• Cost is also a factor (~£43k for Warwick vs lower at Bayes)

Questions:

1. Which program gives a better shot at breaking into IB in London?
2. How much does being physically in London (Bayes) matter vs Warwick?
3. Is FinTech seen as a disadvantage when applying for IB roles?
4. For someone from a non-finance background, which course helps build a stronger IB profile?
5. Realistically, how many students from these programs make it into IB vs Big 4 / other roles?
6. If IB doesn’t work out, which option gives better exit opportunities (consulting / fintech / corporate finance)?
7. Would you personally choose Bayes BIF or Warwick FinTech in this situation?

Would really appreciate any honest insights — especially from people in IB or who have gone through these programs.