What are my chances for LBS MiF with 2 years of work ex in equity research and a 700 GMAT?

Question

I graduated from SRCC in 2023 with a B.Com (Hons), scored 700 on the GMAT, and have been working for the past 2 years in equity research at a boutique investment firm. I also completed CFA Level 1. I’m planning to apply for the LBS Masters in Finance for the 2025 intake, but I’m not sure if my profile is strong enough since most admits seem to have more experience. Do I stand a good chance with only 2 years, or should I wait another year before applying?

Divakshi Arora · Accepted Answer

With 2 years in equity research and a 700 GMAT, you&rsquo;re actually right in the range LBS MiF is designed for. The Early Careers MiF usually takes people with 0&ndash;3 years of experience, so you don&rsquo;t need to wait longer just to add another year. SRCC plus CFA Level 1 already shows strong academics and finance grounding.
What LBS really checks is whether you can show why the MiF is the right step now &mdash; for example, how the technical modules in corporate finance and capital markets will prepare you for IB associate roles, or how access to London recruiters fits directly with your buy-side ambitions. If your essays connect your equity research experience with those next steps, you&rsquo;re in a strong position. Waiting another year won&rsquo;t change much unless you&rsquo;d rather build a case later for an MBA instead.

Hema A · Answer

Two years is actually pretty normal for people applying to the LBS MiF. A lot of Early Careers admits have 1&ndash;3 years in finance-related jobs &mdash; things like corporate banking, equity research, or Big 4. Your 700 GMAT checks the box, and the CFA Level 1 helps too, since it shows commitment to finance.
If you apply now, you&rsquo;ll be compared with candidates at a similar stage, not those with 6&ndash;7 years (that&rsquo;s the Post-Experience MiF). What matters is how you use your essays and recommendations &mdash; for example, explaining how equity research gave you skills in valuation and market analysis, and linking that directly to why you want to step into IB or asset management. If recommenders can highlight your analytical skills and initiative on deals or projects, it strengthens the story further. Based on your profile, you&rsquo;re competitive already. Waiting only makes sense if you&rsquo;d rather position later for an MBA.
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