LBS MiF vs LBS MFA — which one is better if I want to work in investment banking in London?

Question

I have a BCom (Hons) from DU and 2 years of work experience in corporate finance at a Big 4. My main goal is to move into front-office roles in investment banking or asset management in London. I’m confused between LBS MFA and MiF — the MFA seems targeted at younger grads but I’m not sure if it gives enough technical depth for IB, while the MiF looks more advanced but I worry whether my limited experience makes me a weaker applicant. Do recruiters treat grads from both programs the same, or does one clearly open better doors for front-office finance roles?

Divakshi Arora · Accepted Answer

For someone targeting front-office roles in London, the LBS MiF generally carries stronger weight than the MFA. The MiF is designed for candidates with at least a couple years of work experience, and your two years in corporate finance fits that range. Recruiters see MiF graduates as better prepared for associate-level or advanced analyst positions, especially in investment banking and asset management.
The MFA, on the other hand, is tailored more for fresh graduates with little to no full-time work. It provides good foundations but doesn&rsquo;t go as deep technically as the MiF. For someone who already has work experience, the MFA might look like a step back.
Recruiters in London do recognize both programs, but the MiF has the reputation of being the more rigorous and career-focused degree for finance professionals. If the end goal is IB or buy-side, MiF would be the more strategic choice.

Hema A · Answer

Many applicants get stuck between LBS MFA and MiF because both place students in finance, but the differences are sharper than they appear.
&bull; MFA is best suited for fresh graduates, usually with internships rather than full-time experience. It&rsquo;s a feeder into entry-level analyst roles, mainly in London IB and consulting. &bull; MiF is seen as more advanced, aimed at candidates with 2&ndash;6 years of experience. It signals stronger technical ability and often positions graduates for associate-track hiring. &bull; With a BCom and 2 years at a Big 4, the MiF aligns better because recruiters will expect you to aim above entry-level roles. Going for MFA could risk being perceived as under-leveraging your experience. &bull; MiF curriculum has more depth in asset management, corporate finance, and capital markets, which recruiters value when hiring into front-office desks.
So while both open doors, the MiF is the safer bet for someone already past the &ldquo;early careers&rdquo; stage.
For more details you can read this blog on "LBS MFin "

Mohit C · Answer

If you're aiming for front-office investment banking roles in London, the LBS MiF is likely the better choice. While the MFA is excellent for younger grads and provides a solid business education, it lacks the depth in financial theory and technical skills that are crucial for IB roles. The MiF program dives deeper into the technical side of finance, covering areas like financial modeling and valuation, which are key for investment banking. Though your experience may be on the lighter side, the MiF is designed for professionals with some background, and it&rsquo;s widely respected by top London banks. If you&rsquo;re serious about IB, the MiF gives you a better foundation to compete for those highly competitive front-office positions.

S Raghav · Answer

It&rsquo;s a tough choice, but here&rsquo;s the breakdown:

LBS MiF: More focused on advanced finance skills and depth in areas like financial analysis and modeling. However, the MiF typically attracts applicants with a bit more experience, and this could make you a less competitive candidate given your 2 years in corporate finance.
LBS MFA: While aimed at younger grads, this program still provides excellent exposure to investment banking roles, especially in London. It&rsquo;s easier to get into, and the program is still highly respected, making it a good option if you&rsquo;re looking for a more accessible path into IB.

In short, the MiF is more technically robust, but the MFA could be a better fit if you want easier access to London&rsquo;s finance jobs given your current experience.