Being in Los Angeles gives students unique access to industries like tech, media, and entertainment, making it a great place to launch a finance career. The program combines theory with hands-on learning, preparing students for roles in investment banking, asset management, and financial consulting.

Why Choose USC Marshall for an MFin?

• Top-Ranked Business School – USC Marshall is globally recognized for excellence in finance education.
• STEM-Designated Program – Helps international students qualify for a longer OPT (Optional Practical Training) period.
• Strong Industry Connections – Located in LA, with access to top financial firms, startups, and Fortune 500 companies.
• Diverse Student Network – Connect with peers from all over the world and join the vast USC alumni network.

USC Marshall MFin Class Profile

Want to know who you’ll be studying with? Here's a look at the typical class profile for the USC Marshall MS in Finance program:

Diversity & Student Experience

The USC Marshall MFin program welcomes students from different nationalities and professional backgrounds. Many come from finance, consulting, tech, and even engineering fields, bringing diverse perspectives to the classroom.

Students benefit from team-based projects, networking events, and career coaching, making their learning experience more interactive and practical. Plus, the tight-knit cohort size allows for better collaboration and stronger professional relationships.

USC Marshall MS in Finance: Acceptance Rate, Curriculum & Specializations

USC Marshall MFin Acceptance Rate & Competitiveness

How Selective Is the Program?

The USC Marshall MS in Finance (MFin) program is highly competitive, with an estimated acceptance rate of 10-15%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only about 10 to 15 students are admitted.

What Makes a Strong Applicant?

To improve your chances of admission, focus on the following key factors:

• Strong Academic Record – A high GPA, especially in quantitative courses like finance, economics, or mathematics.
• Competitive Test Scores – A solid GMAT or GRE score can boost your application.
• Relevant Experience – While not required, internships or work experience in finance, consulting, or data analysis can help.
• Personal Statement – A well-written essay that showcases your passion for finance and career goals.
• Strong Recommendations – Letters from professors or employers that highlight your skills and potential.

Since the program is STEM-designated, it attracts many international applicants. A strong quantitative background and well-rounded profile will help you stand out in this competitive pool.

USC Marshall MS in Finance Program & Curriculum

The USC Marshall MFin program is structured to give students a deep understanding of financial principles while allowing for specialization through electives.

Core Curriculum

The program begins in mid-August with a math boot camp and orientation to prepare students for the rigorous coursework ahead. The core courses focus on:

• Finance Principles – Fundamental concepts in corporate finance, investment banking, and capital markets.
• Economics – Understanding macroeconomic and microeconomic principles affecting financial markets.
• Accounting & Financial Reporting – Analyzing and interpreting financial statements.
• Investment Analysis & Portfolio Management – Learning how to evaluate investment opportunities and manage risk.
• Financial Valuation & Modeling – Using quantitative models to assess company and asset valuations.

These core courses provide a strong foundation for students, whether they come from a business or non-business background.

Electives & Specializations

After completing the core courses, students can customize their learning experience through electives in areas such as:

• Investment Management – Portfolio strategy, asset allocation, and securities analysis.
• Financial Technology (FinTech) – The impact of technology on financial services, including blockchain and AI in finance.
• Risk Analysis & Financial Engineering – Understanding financial risk and applying quantitative risk models.
• Real Estate Finance – Examining investment strategies and property valuation methods.

Students can choose electives that align with their career interests, helping them specialize in areas that best suit their goals.

Experiential Learning & Industry Engagement

USC Marshall emphasizes hands-on learning through:

• Live Case Studies & Consulting Projects – Collaborating with real companies to solve financial challenges.
• Finance Research Centers – Access to USC’s research centers for deeper insights into market trends.
• Case Competitions – Participating in national and global finance competitions to apply classroom learning to real-world problems.

With its strong industry connections and Los Angeles location, USC Marshall provides students with opportunities to engage with top firms, network with finance professionals, and gain valuable industry experience.

USC Marshall MS in Finance: Eligibility, Requirements & Deadlines

USC Marshall MFin Eligibility & Requirements

Who Can Apply?

To apply for the USC Marshall MS in Finance (MFin) program, you need:

• A College Degree – You must have a bachelor’s degree from an approved school.
• Good Grades – Your past schoolwork should show strong math and finance skills.
• GMAT or GRE Scores – You must take one of these tests and get a good score.
• Work Experience (Optional) – You don’t need full-time job experience, but internships or finance-related work can help.

What Documents Do You Need?

Make sure you have these papers ready before applying:

• School Transcripts – Copies of your grades from college.
• Resume – A short list of your education, work, and skills.
• Essay Answers – Short written answers about why you want to study finance.
• Recommendation Letter – At least one letter from a teacher or boss who knows your work.
• GMAT or GRE Test Scores – Your official test scores must be sent to USC.
• English Test (For International Students) – If English isn’t your first language, you must take TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE.

USC Marshall MFin Application Deadlines

It’s important to apply on time! The USC Marshall MFin program has four rounds of applications.

When Should You Apply?

• Apply Early (Round 1 or 2) – Best for international students (gives time for visa processing).
• Apply in Later Rounds (Round 3 or 4) – More time to improve test scores or get extra work experience.

💡 Tip: The sooner you apply, the better your chances of getting in!

USC Marshall MS in Finance: Jobs, Salary & Alumni Network

USC Marshall MFin Career Outcomes & Placement

USC Marshall MFin Salary & Job Offers

USC Marshall MFin graduates have strong job prospects. Here’s a breakdown of their salaries and job placement rates:

Graduates get jobs in investment banking, consulting, and financial technology (FinTech), making it a great career path.

Top Employers Hiring USC Marshall MFin Graduates

Many top finance companies hire USC Marshall MFin students. Here’s a look at the top industries and companies hiring them:

These companies offer roles in investment banking, consulting, portfolio management, and financial technology.

USC Marshall MFin Alumni Network

Notable USC Marshall Alumni

USC Marshall has a huge alumni network, and many graduates have gone on to become leaders in business.

Being part of USC Marshall means you join a strong network of finance and business professionals who can help you grow in your career!

USC Marshall MS in Finance: Application Essays, Interviews, and Unique Features

Application Essays & Interview

Application Essays & Sample Topics

When applying to the USC Marshall MS in Finance (MFin) program, you'll need to write essays that help the admissions team understand you better. These essays often ask about your goals, experiences, and reasons for choosing USC Marshall. Here are some common topics:

• Your Career Goals: What do you want to achieve in the short and long term?
• Why USC Marshall?: Why do you think USC Marshall is the right place for your studies?
• Personal Experiences: Can you share a story that shows your character or values?

Writing Tips:

• Be Honest: Share your true thoughts and feelings.
• Be Clear: Make sure your writing is easy to understand.
• Be Specific: Use real examples from your life.

These essays help the admissions team see who you are beyond your grades and test scores.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are important because they show what others think about you. Here's who should write them and what they should include:

• Who Should Write Them?:
  • Teachers or Professors: Especially those who know your work well.
  • Work Supervisors: If you've had a job or internship, a boss can provide insight.
• What Should They Highlight?:
  • Your Skills: Like teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
  • Your Character: Qualities like honesty, responsibility, and perseverance.
  • Examples: Specific stories that show your strengths.

Choose people who know you well and can provide detailed and positive insights about you.

USC Marshall MFin Interview & Common Questions

After reviewing applications, USC Marshall may invite some students for an interview. Here's what to expect:

• Format: The interview might be in person, over the phone, or via video call.
• Purpose: To learn more about you and see if you're a good fit for the program.

Common Questions:

• "Can you tell me about yourself?"
• "Why do you want to study finance?"
• "Why did you choose USC Marshall?"
• "What are your career goals?"
• "Can you discuss a challenge you've faced and how you overcame it?"

Preparation Tips:

• Know Your Application: Be ready to discuss anything you've mentioned.
• Practice: Think about your answers to common questions.
• Be Yourself: Let your true personality shine through.

The interview is a chance for the admissions team to get to know you better, so approach it with confidence and authenticity.

What Makes USC Marshall MFin Unique?

The USC Marshall MFin program stands out for several reasons:

• STEM-Designated Program: This means the program focuses on science, technology, engineering, and math, giving you strong skills in quantitative finance.
• Location in Los Angeles: Being in LA provides access to top financial firms and industries like entertainment, technology, and real estate.
• Industry Connections: USC Marshall has strong ties with various companies, offering networking opportunities, internships, and real-world projects.
• Research Opportunities: The program collaborates with research centers, allowing students to work on real financial challenges and stay updated with the latest industry trends.

These features make the USC Marshall MFin program a great choice for students aiming for a successful career in finance.

Useful Links

• Official USC Marshall MS in Finance Program Page
• Application Portal
• Career Placement Reports