Is a 1.5 year work experience in a non-related field acceptable for finance program applications for a Master's/Bachelor's?

It depends. Some finance master's programs accept applicants with work experience in non-finance fields, while others prefer experience directly related to finance.

- Relevant work experience is often preferred, but many programs value any professional experience, especially if you highlight transferable skills like analytical thinking and problem-solving.
- Some programs have no strict work experience requirement and focus more on academic background and motivation.

With your Bachelor of Commerce in Finance and 1.5 years of work experience in another field, you can apply to many programs, but strengthening your application with a strong statement of purpose and emphasizing relevant skills will help.