Do I need any prior education or background in finance to pursue MSc Finance abroad?
No, you do not strictly need a finance background for an MSc Finance abroad, though requirements vary by country. Strict European public universities often demand specific finance or economics credits, while many UK, US and French business schools welcome quantitative candidates from engineering, computer science or mathematics backgrounds instead.
No, you do not strictly need a prior degree in finance to pursue an MSc Finance abroad, but exactly how flexible a program is depends on the university and country you choose. Some European public universities expect specific finance credits, while many UK, US and French business schools care more about your quantitative skills than your major.
How Universities Vary On Background Requirements
| University Type | Background Requirement | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Strict European public universities | Specific finance, corporate finance, accounting or econometrics credits | Certain schools in the Netherlands or Germany |
| Open to quantitative, non-finance backgrounds | Strong quant aptitude valued over your specific major | Imperial College, MIT, HEC Paris, and many other UK/US/French schools |
How To Strengthen A Non-Finance Application
- Demonstrate quantitative skills through your transcripts, or a strong GMAT/GRE quantitative score
- Complete certifications like CFA Level 1, a financial modelling course, or an edX micro-masters in accounting or finance
- Highlight relevant internships or analytical projects touching data analysis, business or economics in your Statement of Purpose
- Look into pre-master's pathways or intensive summer boot camps some universities offer to bring non-finance students up to speed
My Advice
If your background is in engineering, computer science or another quantitative field, lead your Statement of Purpose with that strength rather than apologizing for lacking a finance degree, since many admissions committees actively value that diversity. If your undergraduate math is rusty, take one certification like CFA Level 1 before you apply, since it does more to prove readiness than any paragraph of explanation.
Looking for a specific course?
We will find the universities that offer it, and whether you will get in.
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