For MFin, is Europe better than the US if I have a limited budget and want to stay back and work after the degree?

Question

I have around ₹35–40 lakhs max to spend, and I’m choosing between MFin programs in the US (like UT Dallas, UIUC) and Europe (like ESSEC, EDHEC, or Bocconi). I want to stay back and work abroad for at least 1–2 years after the program. But I’m not sure which region actually gives better visa options and chances to get hired without a local passport. Also heard US programs are longer but more expensive — does that actually help with job outcomes, or is Europe better overall if you’re cost-sensitive?

Supriya J · Accepted Answer

Europe is generally a better option for MFin if the total budget is limited to around ₹35&ndash;40 lakhs and the goal is to stay back and work for 1&ndash;2 years after graduation.
In the US, programs like UT Dallas or UIUC are STEM-designated and offer 3 years of OPT. But tuition is ₹38&ndash;45 lakhs, and living costs add ₹18&ndash;20 lakhs more &mdash; pushing the total to ₹60&ndash;65 lakhs. For someone on a ₹40 lakh budget, it&rsquo;s not affordable unless you get a major scholarship.
In Europe, schools like ESSEC and EDHEC cost around ₹22&ndash;26 lakhs in tuition. Living in Paris, Nice, or Lille adds about ₹9&ndash;11 lakhs, keeping the total under ₹38 lakhs. France offers a 2-year post-study visa (APS), and companies like Soci&eacute;t&eacute; G&eacute;n&eacute;rale, BNP Paribas, Amundi, and Capgemini hire international grads in corporate finance, risk, and valuation roles.
You&rsquo;re spending less and still getting a fair shot at finance jobs in Europe,  which makes it a safer choice if the budget is tight.

B.K Sharma · Answer

Most people see &ldquo;3-year OPT&rdquo; in the US and think it&rsquo;s the better deal &mdash; but the reality is, that extra time doesn&rsquo;t always translate to better results without strong industry connections.

UT Dallas and UIUC do offer more time through OPT, but total costs go beyond ₹60&ndash;70 lakhs when you include tuition, health insurance, and living expenses. Unless you&rsquo;re in the top 15% of the class with prior internships, landing a finance job that sponsors your visa is tough.
In Europe, schools like Bocconi, EDHEC, and ESCP keep the total cost under ₹40 lakhs &mdash; including living. Post-study visa options include 2 years in France and 12&ndash;18 months in Italy or Germany.
European firms like Deloitte, Allianz, BNP Paribas, Soci&eacute;t&eacute; G&eacute;n&eacute;rale, and EY hire international grads into corporate finance, FP&A, and advisory roles &mdash; especially those who start networking and applying early.
While US programs give more time, the job market is saturated and work visas are harder to secure. In Europe, even with shorter visa windows, the lower cost means less pressure to land a very high-paying job immediately.

If the plan is to work abroad without taking on huge debt, Europe is more practical &mdash; especially if you're ready to be proactive.