Advice for MFE

[stevenp]

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to apply to MFE programs. I graduated from UCLA with a degree in Economics. My cumulative GPA was 3.0, but my major GPA was around 3.5. I also have post-graduate equity research experience, and my GRE scores are 166Q / 161V.

My programming background is currently limited, but I’m planning to complete the QuantNet C++ Certificate to strengthen that side of my profile. In terms of math, I didn’t take many formal courses beyond economics and econometrics. However, I’ve pursued independent study in areas like real analysis, which isn’t reflected in my transcript.

Given my GPA trajectory (3.0 overall, ~3.5 major GPA at UCLA), would applying to more selective MFE programs still be worthwhile? Or would it be smarter to focus on slightly less competitive options unless I can strengthen my quant/coding background further?

I’d appreciate any input from anyone familiar with the admissions process. Thanks in advance.

 

[HjalmarLev]

Hi,

It’s hard to say definitively what’s “worthwhile.” Looking at the admissions trackers, people with a wide range of GPAs do get accepted into the more selective MFE programs. From my experience, admissions committees tend to consider much more than just your GPA and GRE scores. (A career coach once told me that a 3.5 GPA is often seen as an informal benchmark to demonstrate readiness for these programs, but it’s not a strict cutoff.)

These programs seem quite good at evaluating applicants holistically. If your essays can effectively communicate qualities beyond your stats—like your independent study of real analysis—I’d definitely recommend applying to some of the more selective programs.

Also, many applications share similar components, so while the first one may take the longest to prepare, the others tend to follow a similar structure. In short, there’s little downside to applying to a few reach schools—as long as you also include some programs that better align with your current profile.