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Cambridge MFin Review – Admissions, Curriculum & Career Prospects

Dhruvin Jain

Dhruvin Jain

Jun 20, 2025

25 mins read

Cambridge MFin Review – Admissions, Curriculum & Career Prospects

Key Takeaways

Category

Details

Program NameMaster of Finance (MFin)
SchoolCambridge Judge Business School, University of Cambridge
Program Duration1 year (Full-time)
FormatIn-person, intensive, experience-focused
LocationCambridge, United Kingdom
Class SizeApproximately 60–70 students
Work Experience RequiredYes – minimum 2 years (average 7 years)
Tuition (2024/25)£59,000
Application RoundsRolling admissions with 5 rounds (final deadline in May)
Average Age30 years
STEM DesignationNo official STEM designation
Employment Rate (3 months post-graduation)91%
Average Salary~£85,000–£100,000
Top EmployersGoldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, HSBC, PwC, BlackRock, Credit Suisse
ScholarshipsMerit-based and diversity-focused scholarships available

What is the Cambridge MFin?

The Cambridge Master of Finance (MFin) is a one-year program for people who already have work experience in finance. It’s offered by Cambridge Judge Business School, part of the famous University of Cambridge in the UK.

This program is not for beginners. Most students have worked in finance for a few years — in jobs like banking, investing, or consulting. It’s made for professionals who want to learn more, grow their careers, or switch to a new area in finance.

At Cambridge, students learn not just from books, but also from real-world projects, guest speakers, and team work. It’s a full-time, hands-on program that helps students become leaders in the finance world.

Why Study Finance at Cambridge?

There are many reasons why people choose the Cambridge MFin:

  • Cambridge is one of the top universities in the world
  • The program is focused on real finance problems, not just theory
  • You study with a small, experienced group of students
  • You get personal career support from experts
  • Companies from around the world recruit students from this program
  • You become part of the Cambridge alumni network, with thousands of successful professionals around the world

The program mixes classroom learning with real business cases and projects, helping you build skills that are useful in top finance jobs.

Women in Finance at Cambridge

Cambridge Judge Business School wants to support more women in the finance world. That’s why they started a Women in Finance initiative.

Here’s what they offer:

  • Scholarships for women who want to study finance
  • Events and mentoring to help women build strong careers
  • A friendly and supportive environment where everyone can succeed

Cambridge believes that finance should include people from all backgrounds — and that more women leaders make the finance industry better.

Cambridge MFin Rankings & Recognition

The Cambridge MFin is one of the top finance programs in the world. It’s well-known for its quality, strong teaching, and the success of its graduates.

How is the Cambridge MFin Ranked?

Each year, different organizations rank finance programs based on things like jobs after graduation, how much students earn, and how strong the program is. The Cambridge MFin regularly ranks in the top 10 in the world for Master of Finance programs.

Ranking Source

Latest Position

Financial Times (Global MFin ranking)Top 10 worldwide (among post-experience finance programs)
QS Business Master’s RankingsOne of the top-ranked finance programs in the UK
Cambridge University ReputationRanked among the top 5 universities globally

These rankings show that employers trust the program, and that students who graduate from it do very well in their careers.

What Do Employers Think?

Many companies in banking, consulting, and finance know about the Cambridge MFin. When employers see “University of Cambridge” on a résumé, they know the candidate has strong skillsprofessional experience, and has learned from top professors.

Graduates from the program work at places like:

  • Goldman Sachs
  • HSBC
  • Credit Suisse
  • BlackRock
  • PwC
  • Barclays

This strong reputation means students have a better chance of getting great jobs after graduation — not just in the UK, but all over the world.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Cambridge MFin Class Profile

The Cambridge MFin brings together a small group of students from around the world. These students have different backgrounds but all share one goal — to grow their careers in finance.

Who Studies in the Cambridge MFin?

The class is small, so students get more attention from teachers and more chances to speak and work with each other. Most students already have jobs in finance before joining the program.

Feature

Details

Class SizeAbout 65 students
Average Age30 years
Work ExperienceMinimum 2 years (average is 7 years)
Countries Represented30+ nationalities
Women in the ClassAbout 30–35%
BackgroundsBanking, asset management, consulting, fintech, accounting

Students come from all over the world, so you get to learn with people who have different ideas, cultures, and finance experience.

What Are the GMAT/GRE Scores and GPA Like?

Cambridge does not require GMAT or GRE, but you can send your score if you want to make your application stronger.

Requirement

Details

GMAT/GRENot required, but average GMAT (if submitted) is around 680
GPANo official cutoff, but strong academic records are expected
English TestRequired if your degree wasn’t taught in English (IELTS 7.5 or TOEFL 110 recommended)

Best Cambridge Colleges for MFin Students

At Cambridge, every student belongs to a college — a smaller community within the university. MFin students can choose their preferred college when they apply.

Some popular colleges for finance students include:

College Name

Why Students Choose It

St. Edmund’s CollegeGreat for mature and international students
Hughes HallFriendly for postgraduates and professionals
Sidney SussexClose to Judge Business School
Queens’ CollegeBeautiful campus and central location

Each college offers housing, dining, and community events — it’s a big part of student life at Cambridge.

Cambridge MFin Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Getting into the Cambridge MFin is not easy — it’s a competitive program. Cambridge looks for students who have strong academic records, good work experience, and a clear reason for wanting to study finance.

How Hard Is It to Get In?

The acceptance rate is estimated to be around 15–20%, which means only about 1 in 5 applicants gets in.

Admissions Detail

Info

Estimated Acceptance Rate15–20%
Number of ApplicantsAround 600+ per year
Class SizeAbout 65 students
Work Experience NeededMinimum 2 years (average is 7 years)
Who Gets In?Strong academic background + real finance experience

Cambridge doesn’t just want smart students. They want people who have already worked in finance and can add value to class discussions.

Cambridge MFin Application Deadline and Rounds

The MFin uses rolling admissions, which means applications are reviewed as they come in. There are 5 rounds, and the earlier you apply, the better.

Application Round

Deadline

Round 1September
Round 2November
Round 3January
Round 4March
Round 5 (Final)Early May

Tip: Apply by January or earlier if you want to improve your chances and apply for scholarships.

University of Cambridge MFin Curriculum

The Cambridge MFin is a one-year program with a mix of required courseselectives, and practical projects. Everything is designed to help students grow their finance skills and apply what they learn to real jobs.

Core Courses & Specialization Tracks

Every student takes a set of core courses. These are the foundation of the program and cover the most important parts of finance.

Core Courses Include:
  • Corporate Finance
  • Investments
  • Financial Accounting
  • Management Practice
  • Ethics in Finance
  • Macroeconomics and Finance

These courses teach you how companies raise money, invest, and manage risks. You also learn how markets work and how financial data is used to make decisions.

Specialization Areas (Choose Electives To Focus):

While there are no formal “tracks,” students can choose electives to focus on areas like:

Focus Area

Example Topics

Financial AnalysisFinancial Modelling, Equity Valuation
Investment BankingMergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Restructuring
Risk ManagementDerivatives, Credit Risk, Financial Regulation

Electives & Customization Options

Students can choose from a wide range of elective courses to match their interests and career goals.

Examples of Electives:
  • Alternative Investments
  • Emerging Markets
  • Venture Capital and Private Equity
  • Quantitative Finance
  • Energy and Commodities Markets

Electives allow students to go deeper into the topics they care about most.

The Learning Experience at Cambridge Judge

Learning at Cambridge is not just about sitting in a classroom. The program includes:

  • Workshops and simulations that mirror real finance challenges
  • Guest speakers from big finance firms
  • Group projects where you solve real business problems
  • Global consulting project (working with a real client)

This hands-on style helps you practice what you learn, not just read about it

Research Centers & Resources

Cambridge students have access to world-class resources, including:

  • Cambridge Endowment for Research in Finance (CERF)
  • Financial databases like Bloomberg, Refinitiv, and FactSet
  • Cambridge University Libraries and research journals
  • Finance-related events and seminars led by experts

These resources support both classroom learning and your final project or researc

Cambridge Master of Finance – A Transformational Year

The program is intense, but it’s also designed to change how you think and work in finance. In one year, you:

  • Grow your technical finance knowledge
  • Build global business skills
  • Make connections with classmates, professors, and employers
  • Prepare for leadership roles in the finance industry

Many students say the Cambridge MFin was a life-changing year that helped them move into better jobs, new countries, or even new industries.

Want help with your study abroad journey?

Cambridge MFin Fees, Scholarships & Financial Aid

Studying at Cambridge is a big investment, but the university also offers scholarships and funding support to help strong students afford the program.

Tuition Costs and Living Expenses

The tuition fee for the Cambridge MFin (2024–2025) is:

Item

Cost

Tuition Fee£59,000
Estimated Living Expenses (for 1 year)£15,000 – £20,000
Total Estimated Cost£74,000 – £79,000

Living costs include housing, food, transport, and personal spending. The cost depends on your lifestyle and college accommodation.

Scholarships and Funding Options

Cambridge Judge Business School offers a number of scholarships based on merit, background, and experience. You don’t need a separate application for most scholarships — you are automatically considered when you apply.

Scholarship Name

Who Can Apply

Amount

Cambridge MFin ScholarshipAll applicants (based on merit)Up to £15,000
Women in Finance ScholarshipFemale applicantsVariable
Diversity & Inclusion AwardsApplicants from underrepresented groupsVariable
College ScholarshipsOffered by individual Cambridge collegesVaries by college

Tip: Apply early. Scholarship funds are limited and are often given in the earlier application rounds.

Cambridge MFin Employment & Placement

The Cambridge MFin is designed to help students get better jobs in finance. Whether you want to switch roles, move up in your career, or work in a new country, the school provides strong career support to help you succeed.

What Jobs Do Cambridge MFin Graduates Get?

Most students find good jobs within three months after finishing the program. Many go into banking, asset management, consulting, or fintech.

Placement Rate

Within 3 months of graduation: 91%

Average Salary£85,000 – £100,000+
Top Hiring RegionsUK, Europe, Asia, Middle East
Typical RolesInvestment Analyst, Finance Manager, Consultant, Risk Analyst

Top Companies That Hire Cambridge MFin Graduates

Graduates work at well-known finance companies and banks around the world. Here are some of the top employers:

Sector

Companies

Investment BankingGoldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley
ConsultingMcKinsey & Company, Bain & Company, EY
Asset ManagementBlackRock, Fidelity, UBS
Technology & FintechAmazon, Revolut, Bloomberg
CorporatesBP, Shell, Unilever

Career Support at Cambridge Judge Business School

Cambridge offers personal career help during the program. The Career Development team helps students:

  • Write a strong CV and cover letter
  • Practice interviews
  • Prepare for case studies
  • Meet recruiters through networking events
  • Attend company presentations and career fairs
  • Get advice from Cambridge alumni in the finance industry

Students also take part in a Global Consulting Project, where they work with real companies on real problems — a great way to get experience and impress future employers.

Cambridge MFin Application Process

Getting into the Cambridge MFin program takes planning and preparation. The school looks for smart, motivated people who already have experience working in finance. Here’s how the process works.

Application Essays & Tips for Writing a Strong SOP

You’ll need to write a Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal statement as part of your application. This is your chance to explain why you want to study at Cambridge, what your career goals are, and how this program will help you.

What to include in your essay:
  • Your academic background (what you studied in college)
  • Your work experience in finance
  • Why you're interested in the Cambridge MFin
  • Your career goals after graduation
  • What you can bring to the class
Tips for writing:
  • Be honest and clear
  • Show passion for finance
  • Keep it well-organized and under 1,000 words
  • Use simple language and examples from your own life
  • Make it personal, not just a list of facts

Interview Process & Questions

If your application is strong, you may be invited for an interview. This usually happens online. The interview helps the school understand your motivation, communication skills, and career goals.

Common Interview Questions:
  • Why do you want to study finance at Cambridge?
  • Tell us about your job experience in finance.
  • What are your career goals after this program?
  • Describe a time you worked on a team.
  • How do you handle challenges or pressure at work?
How to prepare:
  • Practice your answers with a friend
  • Read your personal statement again — they may ask about it
  • Be confident and professional
  • Be clear about why this program is the right fit for you
Want help with your study abroad journey?

Why Cambridge MFin is Unique?

There are many finance programs around the world, but the Cambridge MFin stands out because of its strong reputation, practical learning, and powerful global network.

Strong Industry Connections and Global Finance Network

Cambridge has deep ties to the finance world. Big companies know and respect the MFin program. Many employers come to campus to meet students, give talks, and recruit.

  • The school invites guest speakers from top finance firms
  • Students join career workshops and networking events
  • You get to work on a real-world consulting project with a company
  • The program includes visits to finance firms and conferences

These opportunities help students build skills and connect with future employers while still studying.

Focus on Real-World Application and Hands-On Learning

The Cambridge MFin is not just about textbooks. The program helps you use what you learn in real business situations.

  • Courses include case studies, teamwork, and simulations
  • You learn from professors who have worked in the finance industry
  • You work with classmates from around the world who bring real job experience
  • You apply what you learn through projects, presentations, and class discussions

This hands-on style makes sure you're job-ready when you graduate.

Prestigious Alumni Network and Career Opportunities

When you graduate from Cambridge, you join a global network of alumni — people who studied at Cambridge and now work around the world.

  • MFin alumni work at banks, investment firms, consulting companies, and more
  • You can connect with alumni through networking events and mentoring
  • The Cambridge name opens doors in many countries and industries

Being part of the Cambridge network is something that helps throughout your career, not just after graduation.

Useful Resources & Next Steps

Thinking about applying to the Cambridge MFin? Here are the best links and tools to help you learn more, connect with others, and plan your next steps.

Official Program Page

This is the main page with all the latest details about the Cambridge MFin, including curriculum, deadlines, and how to apply.

Cambridge MFin Official Website

Career & Alumni Resources

FAQs
What is the Cambridge MFin acceptance rate?
The Cambridge MFin is very competitive. Only about 15–20% of applicants are accepted. You’ll need good grades, strong work experience, and a clear reason for applying.
What are the Cambridge MFin requirements for admission?
To apply, you need: A strong bachelor’s degree (in any subject) At least two years of work experience in finance English test scores if your first language isn’t English A personal essay and one reference GMAT or GRE is optional, but can help
What is the best Cambridge University college for MFin?
Popular colleges for MFin students include: St. Edmund’s College – great for older and international students Hughes Hall – focused on postgraduates Sidney Sussex – close to the business school Queens’ College – beautiful and central You can request your preferred college in the application.
What are the Cambridge MFin application deadlines?
There are five rounds, and the final deadline is in early May. It’s best to apply by January or March if you want a better chance and want to be considered for scholarships. What is the cost of tuition and financial aid options? Tuition: £59,000 Living expenses: £15,000–£20,000 Scholarships: Up to £15,000 available for strong applicants, women in finance, and diverse backgrounds
What are the top hiring sectors for Cambridge MFin graduates?
Cambridge MFin graduates work in: Investment banking Asset management Consulting Fintech Corporate finance Employers include Goldman Sachs, BlackRock, PwC, and Amazon.
Does the Cambridge MFin program offer internship opportunities?
There is no formal internship, but many students find internships or jobs through: Career events Networking The Global Consulting Project, which gives real work experience
How does Cambridge MFin compare to other top finance programs?
Cambridge MFin is one of the best finance programs in the world. It’s different because: It’s made for professionals, not fresh graduates It offers real-world learning and small class sizes You join the University of Cambridge network for life
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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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