Home Blogs Princeton Master in Finance (MFin): Class Profile, Admissions, Placements & More

Princeton Master in Finance (MFin): Class Profile, Admissions, Placements & More

Dhruvin Jain

Dhruvin Jain

Feb 27, 2025

17 mins read

Princeton Master in Finance (MFin): Class Profile, Admissions, Placements & More

Introduction

Are you thinking about a career in finance and wondering which program might be the best fit for you? The Princeton University Master in Finance (MFin) program is known worldwide for its excellence. But what makes it stand out? Let's dive into the details to see why many consider it a top choice.

Key Program Details:

Feature

Details

Duration2 years (4 semesters)
FormatFull-time
RankingConsistently top-ranked globally

Princeton MFin Class Profile

Princeton MFin Class Statistics

Curious about who your classmates might be? Here's a snapshot:

Metric

Value

Class SizeAbout 35 students
Average Age23 years
Gender Ratio51% Female, 49% Male
Average Work Experience1-5 years

This diverse mix ensures a rich learning environment where you can gain insights from peers with various backgrounds.

Why Choose Princeton MFin?

Thinking about what sets Princeton’s MFin apart? Here are some highlights:

✔ Expert Faculty – Learn from leading scholars and industry professionals.
✔ Comprehensive Curriculum – Courses cover asset pricing, corporate finance, and financial econometrics.
✔ Networking Opportunities – Connect with a vast alumni network and industry leaders.
✔ Bendheim Center for Finance (BCF) – Benefit from cutting-edge research and resources.

These features combine to offer a robust education that prepares you for the dynamic world of finance.

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Princeton MFin Rankings

Wondering how Princeton’s MFin compares with other top programs? It’s consistently ranked among the best finance programs worldwide.

University

Program

Ranking

MIT SloanMaster of FinanceTop 5
Princeton UniversityMaster in Finance (MFin)Top 10
London Business SchoolMasters in FinanceTop 10
NYU SternMS in Global FinanceTop 15

Princeton’s interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on quantitative finance make it a standout choice.

Princeton MFin Program & Curriculum

Core Courses & Electives

Curious about what you’ll study? The program offers a mix of required courses and electives:

Core Courses:

✔ Asset Pricing
✔ Corporate Finance
✔ Financial Econometrics

Electives:

✔ Financial Engineering
✔ Risk Management
✔ Machine Learning in Finance
✔ Fintech

This structure allows you to tailor your studies to your interests and career goals.

BCF’s Curriculum Advantages

What makes Princeton’s Bendheim Center for Finance (BCF) curriculum special?

✔ Mathematical Finance – Applying math to solve financial problems.
✔ Financial Economics – Understanding economic principles behind markets.

This focus ensures students develop the analytical tools needed in today’s finance industry.

Research Centers & Learning Initiatives

Interested in research opportunities? The Bendheim Center for Finance collaborates with several centers, including:

✔ Center for Statistics and Machine Learning – Explore the intersection of data and finance.
✔ Princeton Environmental Institute – Study the financial impact of environmental issues.

These partnerships allow students to dive into specialized topics and stay ahead in financial research.

Princeton MFin Fees & Financing

Princeton MFin Tuition Fees

Wondering about the cost of the Princeton MFin program? Here's a breakdown of the estimated expenses:

Expense

Annual Cost (USD)

Total for Program (USD)

Tuition$57,410$114,820
Student Health Plan Fee$3,000$6,000
Housing$14,530$29,060
Food$9,150$18,300
Personal Expenses$9,410$18,820
Books and Supplies$2,160$4,320
Total Estimated Cost$95,660$191,320

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Worried about financing your education? Princeton offers several financial support options:

✔ Teaching Assistantships (AI Appointments): Eligible students can apply for assistantships that provide tuition support and a stipend.

✔ External Scholarships: Students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities to supplement their finances.

✔ Employer Sponsorships: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing an advanced degree in finance.

It’s essential to explore all available options and plan accordingly to manage the costs associated with the program.

Princeton MFin Admissions Process

Princeton MFin Requirements

Thinking about applying? Here’s what you’ll need:

✔ Academic Background:bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, business, or a related field is preferred.

✔ Standardized Tests: GRE or GMAT scores are accepted but not mandatory. However, demonstrating strong quantitative skills is crucial.

✔ English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must provide TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores unless their undergraduate education was completed in English.

✔ Mathematics Assessment: All applicants must complete a math assessment as part of the application process.

✔ Letters of Recommendation: Three letters are required.

  • If you have at least two years of work experience, two can be from employers and one from an academic reference.
  • Without work experience, two should be academic references.

Princeton MFin Acceptance Rate & Competitiveness

Curious about your chances? Admission is highly competitive. While exact acceptance rates aren’t published, the program receives numerous applications annually, admitting only a select group of highly qualified students.

What Makes a Strong Application?

✔ Academic Excellence: High grades, especially in quantitative courses like math, finance, and economics.

✔ Relevant Experience: Internships, research, or work experience in finance, investment banking, asset management, or fintech.

✔ Compelling Personal Statement: A clear articulation of career goals, motivation, and fit with Princeton’s MFin program.

✔ Strong Recommendations: Letters that highlight technical skills, leadership, and potential for success in finance.

Princeton MFin Application & Deadlines

The application process involves several key steps:

✔ Online Application: Submit the required documents through Princeton’s graduate application portal.

✔ Transcripts: Provide official academic transcripts from all institutions attended.

✔ Resume: A detailed resume outlining education, work experience, and technical skills.

✔ Essays: Responses to essay prompts that assess your career aspirations, leadership experience, and financial acumen.

✔ Letters of Recommendation: Three letters from professors, employers, or mentors.

✔ Math Assessment: A required test evaluating quantitative and analytical skills.

✔ Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable fee to finalize your submission.

Application Deadlines:

Round

Deadline

Round 1Early January
Round 2Late March

Applying early increases your chances of securing scholarships and receiving a timely admission decision.

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Princeton MFin Application: Essays & Interview

Princeton MFin Essay & Sample Topics

When applying to Princeton’s MFin program, your essays play a critical role in your application. Here’s a breakdown of the common topics:

Essay 1: Career Goals (500 words)

Prompt: Why do you wish to pursue this degree? What do you see yourself doing professionally after graduation?

✔ Be Specific: Clearly outline your short-term and long-term career objectives.
✔ Align with the Program: Explain why Princeton MFin is the right choice for your goals.
✔ Reflect on Your Journey: Discuss past experiences that have shaped your interest in finance.

Essay 2: Leadership & Global Perspective

Prompt: Describe a situation where you demonstrated leadership and how it has shaped your global perspective.

✔ Choose a Relevant Experience: Pick an example that highlights leadership in a global context.
✔ Showcase Cultural Awareness: Discuss how you navigated cultural differences or international challenges.
✔ Highlight Outcomes: Explain the impact of your actions and what you learned.

Essay 3: Optional Essay (Personal Story or Special Circumstances)

Prompt: Please provide any additional information that you would like to bring to the attention of the Admissions Committee.

✔ Address Gaps or Anomalies: If you have a gap in your resume or a lower GPA, explain it here.
✔ Share Unique Aspects: Discuss a personal experience or achievement that adds depth to your application.
✔ Be Concise: Only include information that strengthens your profile.

Princeton MFin Interview & Common Questions

If your written application is strong, you’ll be invited for an interview with the admissions team. Here’s what to expect:

Interview Format:

✔ Who? Typically conducted by admissions committee members or faculty.
✔ How? Interviews may be in-person or virtual.
✔ Duration? Usually 30-45 minutes.

Common Questions:

Question

What They Want to Know

Walk me through your resume.Can you summarize your career path and key achievements?
Why Princeton MFin?How does this program align with your career goals?
Describe a challenging professional situation.How do you handle pressure and problem-solving?
How will you contribute to the MFin cohort?What unique perspectives and experiences will you bring?
What are your long-term career aspirations?Are your goals well thought-out and realistic?

Preparation Tips:

✔ Know Your Application: Be ready to discuss any part of your resume or essays in detail.
✔ Research the Program: Understand Princeton’s MFin curriculum, faculty, and global opportunities.
✔ Practice Common Questions: Rehearse, but avoid sounding scripted.
✔ Be Yourself: Authenticity matters. Show genuine passion for finance and leadership.

Princeton MFin Placement & Career Outcomes

Princeton MFin Salary & Job Offers

Princeton’s MFin graduates have an exceptional placement record in top finance roles worldwide. With a strong quantitative and analytical focus, the program prepares students for highly competitive positions in finance, consulting, and technology.

💰 Average Salary & Compensation:

Metric

Value

Average Base Salary$150,000+
Total Compensation$199,000 (includes bonuses)
Employment Rate at Graduation100%

Graduates of the program secure high-paying roles in investment banking, quantitative finance, and asset management, with many receiving multiple job offers before completing the program.

Industry & Employers Hiring Princeton MFin Graduates

Princeton MFin graduates are highly sought after in the financial sector. The top hiring industries include:

✔ Investment Banking (Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan)
✔ Hedge Funds (Bridgewater Associates, Citadel, Renaissance Technologies)
✔ Quantitative Finance & Trading (Jane Street, Two Sigma, Optiver)
✔ Technology & Fintech (Google, Stripe, Amazon)
✔ Consulting (McKinsey, BCG, Bain)

With strong employer relationships, the Bendheim Center for Finance (BCF) provides students with career support, networking opportunities, and direct access to top financial firms.

What Makes Princeton MFin Unique?

Unparalleled Quantitative Finance Focus & Faculty

✔ Data-Driven Curriculum – Princeton MFin blends finance, statistics, computer science, and machine learning, ensuring students are prepared for modern finance careers.
✔ World-Class Faculty – Learn from leading finance scholars, quantitative experts, and Nobel Prize winners.

Strong Industry Connections & Alumni Network

✔ Global Alumni Network – Princeton MFin’s extensive alumni connections open doors to opportunities at leading investment banks, hedge funds, and tech firms.
✔ Recruiting Partnerships – Top firms actively recruit Princeton students for internships and full-time roles.

Access to Princeton’s Research Centers & Wall Street Opportunities

✔ Bendheim Center for Finance (BCF) – The hub for financial research and industry collaboration.
✔ Hands-On Learning – Work on real-world projects, data-driven research, and case studies to apply finance concepts to practical situations.
✔ New York Advantage – Proximity to Wall Street offers unparalleled access to networking and finance internships.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Official Princeton MFin Program Page 
Application Portal
Princeton BCF Research Center 

🚀 Thinking of applying? Start preparing your application today!

FAQs
What is the acceptance rate for Princeton MFin?
Princeton MFin is highly competitive, with a selective admissions process. Only about 35 students are admitted each year, making it one of the most exclusive finance programs.
What is the application deadline for Princeton MFin?
The application deadline typically falls in early January. It’s best to apply early to maximize chances of admission and financial aid consideration.
How much does Princeton MFin cost?
The estimated total cost for two years (including tuition, living expenses, and other fees) is around $191,000. Financial aid and assistantships are available for eligible students.
What is the average salary after Princeton MFin?
Graduates earn an average total compensation of $199,000, including base salary and bonuses.
What makes Princeton’s MFin program unique?
Mathematical & Computational Focus – Strong foundation in data science, machine learning, and financial modeling. Career Outcomes – 100% employment rate at graduation. Exclusive Network – Access to top-tier employers and influential Princeton alumni.
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Dhruvin Jain
Dhruvin Jain

Articles: 20

Dhruvin Jain is the co-founder of MastersBuddy, a tech-first platform that has helped over 2500 students find and apply to top master’s programs globally. He is a master’s graduate from IE Business School, and is passionate about education, technology, and entrepreneurship.

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