Chicago Booth MFin vs NUS MSc in Finance – which is better for Indian students targeting investment banking jobs and strong ROI?

Question

Mansih K · Accepted Answer

For Indian students focused on investment banking, Chicago Booth MFin generally offers stronger recruiting access and ROI compared to NUS MSc in Finance. Booth&rsquo;s one-year program places graduates into New York and Chicago IB roles with base salaries around $125,000 plus bonuses, which is close to MBA-level pay. Even with the $120,000+ cost, the payback period is often 2&ndash;3 years.
NUS, while well-regarded in Asia, places most graduates in Singapore and Hong Kong, where IB analyst packages average $70,000&ndash;90,000. ROI is good since tuition is about $50,000 and living costs are lower, but the ceiling is lower too compared to U.S. salaries. Visa is another factor: Booth&rsquo;s STEM OPT gives up to 3 years to work in the U.S., while Singapore offers only 1&ndash;2 years of employment pass flexibility. If the goal is bulge bracket or elite boutique roles, Booth is the stronger bet.

Shruti T · Answer

The decision really comes down to location and comfort with the upfront cost.
&bull; Booth MFin costs about $120,000+, but IB exits in the U.S. pay $125,000&ndash;130,000 base with big bonuses, so the payback is quick if recruiting works out.&bull; NUS MSc in Finance costs less than half of Booth, and living in Singapore is cheaper. Graduates there often join DBS, UOB, HSBC, or regional IB teams with $70,000&ndash;90,000 packages. ROI is steady, but salary growth is slower compared to the U.S.&bull; Visa rules are a key difference: Booth&rsquo;s STEM OPT gives three years of work authorization, while Singapore&rsquo;s employment pass is shorter but easier to secure at the start.&bull; For Indian students aiming at Wall Street and global banks, Booth is usually worth the higher spend. For those wanting a more affordable path and Asia-based roles, NUS can be the smarter pick.
So &ldquo;better&rdquo; depends on whether the priority is landing in New York or building a cost-effective career in Asia.