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Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Admissions, Curriculum, Career Outcomes & More

  • Masters Experts
  • Apr 14
  • 21 min read

For aspiring finance professionals seeking a transformative and globally respected education, the Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) program offers an unparalleled opportunity. Delivered jointly by the Saïd Business School and the University of Oxford’s Department of Economics, this nine-month, full-time program is consistently ranked among the world’s best. In fact, the MFE was ranked number 1 globally in the QS Global Business Master’s Rankings and number 2 in the UK by the Financial Times for 2023.


Table of Contents


Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Admissions, Curriculum, Career Outcomes & More


Introduction to Oxford MSc Financial Economics

The Oxford MFE is distinct for its interdisciplinary curriculum, blending rigorous academic theory in economics with practical, industry-facing finance training. Whether your goal is to launch a high-impact career in investment banking, asset management, or consulting—or to build a strong foundation for a PhD or research pathway—the MFE is structured to meet your ambitions.


Each year, the program attracts a highly diverse and academically accomplished cohort. The 2023–24 class included students from 27 nationalities, 47% women, with an average GMAT score of 747 and an average age of 23. Students typically have less than two years of work experience, making the MFE ideal for early-career candidates with strong quantitative and analytical capabilities.


What sets the MFE apart is its focus on career acceleration and real-world application. From day one, students engage in career-focused workshops, Python and finance bootcamps, and practical finance labs that mirror the workflows of leading global firms. The curriculum is further enhanced through elective offerings, case-based learning, and co-curricular programs such as the Oxford Saïd Finance Lab and the Asset Management Masterclass. These immersive experiences provide hands-on exposure to the tools and decision-making processes used in investment banking, M&A, equity valuation, and private equity.


The program is also known for its access to world-class faculty and practitioners, including renowned economists and finance experts. Alumni of the MFE program have gone on to build successful careers with employers such as Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Bank of America, McKinsey & Company, and Bain & Company, among others.

In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, the Oxford MFE offers more than just academic credentials. It provides a dynamic launchpad for future leaders in finance—those who are not only equipped with technical skills but also with the ethical grounding and global awareness necessary to thrive in high-stakes environments.


Why Choose the Oxford MSc Financial Economics?

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) stands out not just for the prestige of its name, but for its powerful combination of academic excellence, real-world training, and career-focused delivery. For candidates seeking to break into finance, consulting, or economics-oriented research roles, the MFE program offers a finely tuned bridge between the theoretical foundations of financial economics and the practical skills demanded by global employers.


Joint Delivery by Oxford's Leading Institutions

One of the most compelling reasons to choose the Oxford MFE is its interdisciplinary delivery. The program is taught collaboratively by Saïd Business School and the Department of Economics at the University of Oxford, ensuring students benefit from cutting-edge research in economics while also engaging with the financial tools and market understanding required by business professionals. This dual-structured format integrates economic theory with finance applications, preparing students to make informed and impactful decisions in dynamic markets.


Strong Global Reputation

Oxford University needs little introduction. As one of the world’s oldest and most respected institutions, its global brand recognition opens doors in nearly every geography and sector. For recruiters, the Oxford MFE credential signals academic rigor, analytical sharpness, and a deep understanding of complex financial systems. The program’s top-tier rankings in QS and FT further validate its position as a global leader in graduate finance education.


Intellectually Rigorous and Career-Focused

The Oxford MFE curriculum is designed to be intellectually tough yet highly practical. Students build solid foundations in asset pricing, corporate finance, and econometrics while learning to apply these principles in real-world contexts. Elective options, such as mergers & acquisitions, private equity, international finance, and financial market trading, allow participants to specialize in areas that match their career goals.

In addition to coursework, students benefit from practitioner-led modules and industry engagements such as:

  • Oxford Saïd Finance Lab: Offers hands-on learning in investment banking scenarios through modeling, valuation, and deal structuring workshops.

  • Asset Management Masterclass: Provides insight into fund management from both micro and macro investment perspectives.

  • CFA Integration: Approximately 70% of the CFA curriculum is embedded, making it ideal for candidates pursuing the charter.


Exceptional Career Support and Employer Access

From pre-arrival online bootcamps in Python, finance, and Excel to ongoing one-on-one career coaching, Oxford offers a robust career development ecosystem. Weekly recruitment-focused sessions, technical workshops, and alumni panels ensure students are continually exposed to hiring trends and talent expectations.

Moreover, the program’s alumni network and employer connections are world-class. Organizations like Goldman Sachs, UBS, McKinsey, and CPP Investments are frequent recruiters, with students placed across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East.


International and Diverse Cohort

Oxford’s MFE prides itself on cultivating a globally diverse learning environment. With over 97% international students and representation from 20+ countries, students gain not only academic insight but also the opportunity to learn from peers with varied cultural and professional perspectives. This diversity enriches classroom discussions and enhances global employability.


Program Overview and Key Highlights

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) is a nine-month, full-time program designed for early-career professionals aiming to build a career in finance, consulting, or economics-related fields. This intensive program combines world-class teaching in economic theory and financial practice with unmatched career development support—all within the intellectually rich and globally connected ecosystem of the University of Oxford.


A Timeline Designed for Impact

The MFE program runs from September to June, structured into three main terms:

  • Pre-Arrival (July–September): Online workshops in Python, financial reporting, and Wall Street Prep tools are combined with career coaching and employer insight sessions.

  • Michaelmas & Hilary Terms (Autumn–Winter): Students take five core courses covering foundational elements of financial economics. This includes:

    • Asset Pricing

    • Corporate Finance

    • Financial Econometrics

    • Economics (Micro and Macro)

    • Ethics & Finance

  • Trinity Term (Spring–Summer): Students personalize their learning with five electives (or four electives plus a project). Electives are chosen to match career goals and may span topics such as private equity, M&A, international finance, or fixed income derivatives.


Snapshot of the Class Profile (2023–24) of Oxford MSc Financial Economics

Metric

Value

Class Size

97 students

Average Age

23

Average Work Experience

6 months

Average GMAT Score

747

Female Participation

47%

International Students

97%

Number of Nationalities

27

These figures reflect the highly selective and global nature of the program, attracting top talent from leading institutions worldwide.


Industry-Relevant Learning and Tools

Beyond classroom instruction, Oxford MFE students participate in practical, co-curricular experiences that simulate real finance and consulting roles:

  • Oxford Saïd Finance Lab: An elite training platform with hands-on modeling tasks, valuation exercises, and real transaction analysis led by senior finance professionals.

  • Asset Management Masterclass: A selective elective focused on portfolio construction, market strategy, and fund operations.

  • CFA Embedded Curriculum: Approximately 70% of the CFA Body of Knowledge is covered in the MFE program, giving students a significant edge if they plan to pursue the CFA designation.


A Launchpad to Global Careers

The curriculum is intentionally aligned with the expectations of recruiters in investment banking, asset management, private equity, and strategy consulting. Students are supported through:

  • Dedicated career advisors and CV coaching

  • Interview workshops and technical test prep

  • Weekly recruiter panels and alumni sessions

Whether your goal is to join JP Morgan in London, McKinsey in Dubai, or Goldman Sachs in Hong Kong, the program is structured to support that vision from day one.


Oxford MFE Curriculum: Core Modules and Electives

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) curriculum is meticulously designed to bridge academic theory with practical financial application. It equips students with the analytical, technical, and ethical foundation required to navigate complex global financial markets. Delivered over three terms, the curriculum includes five core courses and a wide selection of career-focused electives, along with the option to complete a project in lieu of one elective.


Core Modules: Foundation for Financial Leadership

During the Michaelmas and Hilary terms, students undertake a rigorous set of five core modules. These are jointly delivered by faculty from Oxford’s Saïd Business School and the Department of Economics:

Core Module

Description

Asset Pricing

Covers valuation techniques for assets such as stocks, options, bonds, and foreign exchange. Includes CAPM, Black-Scholes, and consumption-based models with a strong empirical component.

Corporate Finance

Introduces firm valuation, capital structure, securities issuance, M&A, and the financial implications of corporate decisions.

Financial Econometrics

Focuses on modeling, testing, and forecasting financial data using advanced econometric techniques.

Economics

Merges microeconomic and macroeconomic theory with applications in market structure, game theory, auctions, and incentive systems.

Ethics & Finance

Encourages critical thinking about ethical dilemmas in finance. Includes practitioner sessions and a case-study-based assessment.

These modules provide students with robust technical tools and a deep understanding of the financial environment, enabling them to analyze and solve real-world challenges.


Oxford MSc Financial Economics Electives: Specialize and Customize

In the Trinity term, students personalize their academic experience by selecting five electives from a dynamic list that evolves each year. They may also opt to replace one elective with a written project on a relevant financial topic.

Sample Electives Previously Offered:

Elective Course

Focus Area

Advanced Econometrics: Forecasting

Predictive modeling using time-series and panel data

Continuous Time Finance

Stochastic calculus for pricing derivatives

Corporate Valuation

Valuing companies for M&A, PE deals, and project finance

Diversity, Inclusion, and Finance

Gender, race, and other dimensions in workplace finance

Financial Crises and Risk Management

Analyzing systemic risk and tools to mitigate financial crises

Financial Markets Trading

Market microstructure, trading strategies, and risk control

Fixed Income and Derivatives

Valuation of bonds, interest rate instruments, and swaps

Fundamental Analysis for Active Investing

Hands-on analysis of company financials for stock selection

Governance and Ethics

Corporate responsibility, board structures, and ethical failures

Identification: Causality in Economics

Techniques like RCTs and natural experiments to determine causality

International Finance

Currency markets, cross-border investing, and global macro issues

Investing in Private/Public Equity

Strategies and challenges in public and private equity domains

Mergers, Acquisitions & Restructuring

Deal mechanics, LBOs, and post-merger integration

Private Equity

Fund structures, deal sourcing, portfolio management

This range of electives allows students to build domain expertise that aligns with their career goals—whether in investment banking, asset management, consulting, or research.

Individual Project Option

Instead of one elective, students may undertake an individual project, conducting applied research or analytical work on a topic of professional or academic interest. This option is ideal for those targeting PhD programs or analytical roles in finance.


Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Admissions Criteria and Application Process

Admission to the Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) is highly competitive, reflecting the program's global reputation and its alignment with the career ambitions of top-tier finance professionals. The admissions committee seeks candidates with strong academic backgrounds, robust quantitative skills, and clear professional goals in finance, consulting, or economic policy. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the admissions requirements and process.


Academic Requirements

Applicants must have (or be expected to achieve) a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree (or international equivalent). While the degree does not have to be in finance or economics, candidates must demonstrate strong quantitative proficiency, typically in areas such as calculus, linear algebra, statistics, and econometrics.

If the degree result falls below the required classification, the likelihood of admission is extremely low, regardless of graduate-level qualifications. For international applicants, Oxford provides a detailed guide to equivalent international qualifications.


GMAT or GRE Test Scores

A valid GMAT or GRE score is mandatory. The program does not grant test waivers, and applications will not be considered without submitted scores. For context, here are the average test scores for the 2024 cohort:

Test Version

Average Score

GMAT (10th Edition)

743

GMAT (Focus Edition)

717

GRE (Quantitative)

169

All components of the test must be taken, and scores older than five years (at the program start date) are invalid. Both online and in-person versions are accepted. Applicants should upload their official score reports or screenshots with their application—provisional scores are not accepted.

Work Experience

While full-time work experience is not required, many successful applicants have some exposure through internships or short-term projects. The average work experience in the current cohort is 6 months. Applicants are expected to submit a one-page CV detailing all relevant academic and professional experience.


Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following materials:

  • Completed Online Application Form

  • Academic Transcripts (with grades for all courses)

  • One-page CV

  • 500-word Essay: “What has attracted you to the MSc Financial Economics and how do you think the programme will support your five-year career plan?”

  • Three References: Academic or professional. One reference must come from the institution awarding your current or most recent degree.

  • Kira Talent Video Assessment: A brief online interview with 4 verbal and 1 written response question.

  • Proof of English Proficiency: Required if the applicant is not from a majority English-speaking country and has not studied a degree entirely in English within the last two academic years.


Application Fee

A non-refundable £75 application fee must be paid via the University of Oxford's Online Store.


Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Application Deadlines

Oxford operates a staged admissions process, and applicants can only apply once per admissions cycle. Although the deadlines for the 2026 intake will be released in September 2025, early application is strongly encouraged—especially for those seeking scholarships or visas.


Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Fees, Scholarships, and Funding Options

Pursuing the Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) represents a significant investment in your future. While the cost is substantial, the program offers a variety of scholarship and funding opportunities to help deserving candidates manage tuition and living expenses. Below is a detailed overview of the financial aspects of the program.


Tuition Fees

The total tuition fee for the 2025–26 academic year is £59,360. This covers:

  • All teaching materials and program delivery

  • Access to the University of Oxford’s facilities, libraries, and computing services

  • Career support, employer events, and co-curricular programming

Students should also account for living expenses, estimated by the University to be approximately £15,000–£18,000 for the full nine-month program, depending on personal lifestyle and accommodation choices.


Scholarships Offered by Saïd Business School for Oxford MSc Financial Economics

Oxford Saïd offers a range of merit- and need-based scholarships that are either automatically considered at the time of application or require a separate essay or form. Notable scholarships include:

Scholarship Name

Eligibility / Criteria

Oxford Saïd Future Leaders Scholarship

Outstanding leadership and academic potential

Rewley Scholarships

Merit-based; awarded by the business school

Laidlaw Scholarships

Women demonstrating strong academic and leadership profile

Leo Tong Chen Scholarships

Students from East Asia (e.g., China, Hong Kong)

Forté Fellowships for Women

Women with leadership experience and strong academics

Oxford Black Leaders Scholarships

Open to Black or mixed Black heritage candidates

Pershing Square Scholarships

Dual-degree 1+1 MBA applicants with a global impact vision

Most of these scholarships do not require a separate application—applicants are considered automatically if they apply by the relevant stage deadlines.


University-Wide and College Funding

In addition to school-level awards, Oxford students may be eligible for scholarships offered by Oxford colleges, the University, and external bodies. These may include:

  • Clarendon Fund Scholarships

  • Weidenfeld-Hoffmann Scholarships

  • Oxford Graduate Scholarships

Some colleges also offer accommodation subsidies or travel grants. Upon admission, students are automatically assigned to a college, and details about funding from the assigned college will be provided during onboarding.


Loans and External Funding

Oxford Saïd encourages applicants to explore loan options and third-party funding sources, including:

  • Prodigy Finance

  • Lendwise

  • Oxford’s list of external scholarships and country-specific grants

  • Employer sponsorship or government fellowships

The school provides a helpful breakdown on how to pay your fees and manage living expenses, accessible via the Oxford Saïd Scholarships & Funding Portal.


Key Advice for Applicants to Oxford MSc Financial Economics

  • Apply early: Scholarships often run out in earlier stages of admission.

  • Prepare financial documentation in advance: Especially important for student visa applications and college placement.

  • Be proactive: Consider a blend of scholarships, external funding, and personal savings to create a stable financial plan.


Career Support and Job Outcomes

A major strength of the Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) lies in its robust, personalized, and globally connected career support ecosystem. Whether your target is investment banking, consulting, asset management, or fintech, the MFE program offers structured pathways to help you succeed in the competitive global job market.


Tailored Career Development

Career preparation begins before you even arrive in Oxford. Over the summer, MFE students attend a pre-arrival careers program, featuring weekend workshops, employer-led webinars, and personalized resume reviews. These sessions are led by industry experts and senior career coaches to ensure you’re application-ready for early internship cycles and fast-moving recruitment windows.

Once on campus, you gain access to:

  • One-to-one coaching

  • Weekly career workshops and market updates

  • Employer presentations and networking events

  • Technical interview prep and trading simulations

  • Sector-specific career tracks (e.g., investment banking, private equity, consulting)

These offerings are designed not only to help students secure roles, but also to refine long-term career strategies aligned with personal goals.


Oxford Saïd Finance Lab and Masterclasses

The Oxford Saïd Finance Lab is a powerful, experiential learning module that simulates real-world scenarios in finance. Students work on financial modeling, LBO analysis, and M&A case studies guided by professionals from firms like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and Blackstone. Participants also engage in challenges like the Investment Banking Simulation and the Global Private Equity Challenge, which offer networking and internship opportunities.

Exceptional students may be selected for the Asset Management Masterclass, which explores fund management practices and macro-level investment decision-making. These experiences sharpen technical skills and boost visibility with employers.


Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Top Employers and Career Outcomes

Despite a challenging global hiring climate in 2022–23, the MFE program reported 92% of graduates accepting job offers within six months of completion. Graduates secured roles across 14 countries, with particularly strong representation in the UK (47%), Asia (26%), Europe (11%), and North America (9%).


Breakdown by Industry:

  • 70% entered Finance (e.g., investment banking, asset management, private equity)

  • 25% joined Consulting (e.g., strategy, management consulting)

  • 5% pursued Other industries or ventures

Average Salary by Industry (2022–23):

Sector

Average Salary

Finance

£66,761

Consulting

£53,547

Top Hiring Companies:

Finance:

  • Goldman Sachs

  • Morgan Stanley

  • UBS

  • Bank of America

  • CPP Investments

  • Barclays

  • Citibank (APAC)

  • Oakley Capital

  • Rothschild & Co

  • PIMCO

Consulting:

  • McKinsey & Company

  • Bain & Company

  • BCG

  • EY-Parthenon

  • Deloitte

  • Strategy&

  • Roland Berger

These strong employment figures reflect the MFE’s close alignment with industry expectations and its capacity to produce highly capable, hire-ready talent.


Alumni Network and Industry Advisors

Students benefit from an extensive global alumni network and access to industry mentors, many of whom actively engage in interview prep, case panels, and informal networking. Alumni from Oxford’s MFE hold leadership roles across the world, and often return to campus to recruit, mentor, and guide the next generation.


Global Exposure of Oxford MSc Financial Economics

One of the most unique and enriching aspects of the Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) is the immersive environment it offers both academically and culturally. The program’s global cohort, combined with Oxford’s distinctive collegiate system, provides students with unparalleled international exposure and a deeply rooted sense of community.


A Truly Global Cohort

The MFE draws exceptional talent from around the world, creating a vibrant, international classroom environment. In the most recent cohort:

  • 97% of students were international

  • Students represented over 27 nationalities

  • The class included 47% female participants

  • Average age: 23

  • Backgrounds spanned economics, finance, engineering, and social sciences

This diversity fuels intellectually dynamic discussions, group collaborations, and friendships that stretch across continents. Students not only learn from world-class faculty but also from peers with different cultural lenses and financial market insights.

The internationalism of the program also plays a critical role in career development. Employers value globally minded candidates who can navigate multicultural environments, and the Oxford MFE fosters this outlook from day one.


Oxford College Experience: A Life Beyond the Classroom

Upon admission, all MFE students become members of an Oxford college—a hallmark of the University experience. Oxford has 43 colleges, many of which accept MSc Financial Economics students, including:

  • Balliol College

  • Brasenose College

  • Exeter College

  • Green Templeton College

  • Harris Manchester College

  • Jesus College

  • Keble College

  • Lincoln College

  • Magdalen College

Each college functions as a mini-campus within the university, offering a tight-knit academic and social community. Here, you’ll dine in historic halls, engage in cross-disciplinary seminars, join sports teams, or attend formal events like college balls and debates. It's a rare chance to build friendships with students from law, engineering, medicine, and the humanities—all under one roof.


Colleges also often provide accommodation, library access, and welfare services. Some offer scholarships, bursaries, or travel grants that MFE students can apply for upon enrolment.


Strategic Location and Global Networking

Oxford's location places it within close reach of London, one of the world’s major financial centers. The program takes full advantage of this proximity, hosting:

  • Regular networking events with London-based alumni

  • Employer visits from bulge-bracket banks and top consultancies

  • Career treks and panel sessions hosted in London finance hubs

These touchpoints provide real-world context, create internship opportunities, and expand students’ professional networks within global finance.


Cross-Disciplinary Exposure and Lifelong Community

Being part of the broader Oxford ecosystem means you're not just confined to the business school. You'll have the opportunity to:

  • Attend public lectures by Nobel laureates, economists, and global leaders

  • Join university-wide societies and student groups

  • Collaborate with peers from the Blavatnik School of Government, Mathematical Institute, and Oxford Internet Institute

This interdisciplinary exposure ensures you graduate not just as a technical expert, but as a well-rounded global professional with a rich cultural and intellectual foundation.


Who Should Apply to the Oxford MFE?

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) is a program designed for early-career professionals and exceptional recent graduates who are looking to build or pivot into high-impact careers in finance, consulting, economic policy, or academia. Its rigorous curriculum, international profile, and experiential learning focus make it ideal for candidates who are intellectually curious, analytically strong, and professionally ambitious.


Ideal Candidate Profile for Oxford MSc Financial Economics

Oxford Saïd looks for a blend of academic strength, quantitative ability, and clear career intent. Successful applicants typically demonstrate:

  • A strong academic track record, often in economics, mathematics, finance, engineering, or another quantitative discipline

  • Exceptional quantitative and analytical skills, with experience in calculus, probability, statistics, and econometrics

  • A high GMAT or GRE score, with the 2024 class averaging:

    • GMAT (10th Edition): 743

    • GMAT (Focus Edition): 717

    • GRE Quantitative: 169

  • Evidence of motivation for a finance or economics-related career, clearly articulated through the required 500-word essay and the Kira video interview

  • Some prior exposure to the financial world, either through internships, coursework, research, or relevant work experience (though not mandatory)


Who Will Benefit Most from Oxford MSc Financial Economics?

The program is ideal for candidates who:

  • Aspire to launch a career in investment banking, asset management, private equity, or consulting

  • Plan to work in policy, economic analysis, or central banking, where a deep understanding of financial markets is essential

  • Are considering PhD or academic research and want a rigorous foundation in financial economics before applying

  • Want access to a global network of alumni, employers, and thought leaders in finance and economics

  • Thrive in fast-paced, intellectually demanding environments and want to be challenged by both faculty and peers


Not Just for Finance Majors

While many MFE students have undergraduate degrees in finance, business, or economics, the program also welcomes candidates from STEM fields, liberal arts, and other non-traditional backgrounds, provided they can demonstrate quantitative aptitude. Candidates from diverse academic paths who can show alignment with the program’s goals and outcomes are encouraged to apply.


Additional Considerations

  • International exposure and multilingualism are advantages, given the global nature of the class and recruiting base

  • Leadership roles in student organizations, research projects, or competitions (e.g., CFA Research Challenge, case competitions) can help strengthen the application

  • Early application is advised, particularly for those seeking scholarships or applying from visa-restricted countries


Who Should Not Apply

Applicants without demonstrated quantitative ability or with poor academic performance in relevant fields are unlikely to be competitive. Similarly, candidates seeking a general management degree or those looking for part-time or remote study should consider other options.


Conclusion

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) is more than just a finance master’s degree—it’s a career-defining experience delivered at one of the world’s most prestigious universities. For driven, intellectually curious individuals with a passion for finance, economics, or consulting, the MFE offers an unmatched platform to launch or elevate a global career.

From its rigorous academic foundation in economic theory and financial practice, to its career-oriented co-curriculars like the Finance Lab and Asset Management Masterclass, the Oxford MFE is designed to deliver both depth and versatility. The program combines academic intensity with real-world relevance, preparing graduates not just to succeed, but to lead in fast-paced and high-stakes professional environments.


What truly sets the MFE apart is the Oxford experience itself: a diverse, global student body, the historic and intellectually rich college system, and access to global recruiters and industry leaders who actively engage with the school’s programs. Whether your aspirations lie in investment banking, strategy consulting, asset management, public policy, or research, the MFE program gives you the knowledge, skills, and connections to make them a reality.


With an average GMAT of 747, and over 90% job placement within six months, Oxford MFE students consistently demonstrate excellence in both academic performance and career outcomes. For those ready to compete—and thrive—on the world stage, this program offers the preparation and prestige to stand out.

If you’re looking for a transformative educational journey at the intersection of finance, economics, and global impact, the Oxford MSc Financial Economics may be the perfect next step.


Want expert feedback on your Oxford MFE application profile? 

Speak to a mentor at GOALisB for personalized guidance on GMAT strategy, essay writing, and career alignment.


FAQ: Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE)


1. What is the ranking of MSc Financial Economics at Oxford? 

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics (MFE) is ranked #1 globally in the 2025 QS Master in Finance rankings out of 222 programmes. It also ranks joint first for Alumni Outcomes and Employability, and first for Thought Leadership.


2. How much is MSc Financial Economics at Oxford? 

For the 2025–26 academic year, the tuition fee is £59,360. Students should also budget £15,000–£18,000 for living expenses in Oxford.


3. How to get into Oxford MSc Financial Economics? 

Applicants must have a strong undergraduate degree, GMAT or GRE scores, a 500-word career essay, three references, English proficiency, and complete the Kira Talent video interview. Work experience is preferred but not required.


4. How long is the MSc Financial Economics program at Oxford? 

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics is a full-time, nine-month program running from September to June.


5. Is MSc Financial Economics worth it? 

Yes, the program offers high employability, strong alumni outcomes, and global brand recognition. Graduates enter careers in banking, consulting, asset management, and policy. The curriculum is rigorous and industry-aligned, making it a valuable investment for early-career professionals.


6. What is the acceptance rate for Oxford Financial Economics Masters? 

The Oxford MFE program has an estimated acceptance rate of approximately 9.3%, making it highly competitive.


7. Is Oxford MFE worth it? 

Absolutely. With top global rankings, strong salaries, and access to recruiters like Goldman Sachs and McKinsey, the Oxford MFE delivers excellent ROI for aspiring finance professionals.


8. How competitive is Oxford Economics? 

Oxford’s Economics programs, including the MFE, are among the most competitive globally, requiring top academic and quantitative credentials.


9. How much do you get paid in MSc finance Oxford? 

Graduates from the MFE program earn an average of £66,761 in finance roles and £53,547 in consulting roles, according to the 2022–23 placement report.


10. Is it hard to get into Oxford MSc? 

Yes, the Oxford MSc Financial Economics is highly selective. Applicants need exceptional grades, quantitative skills, and strong test scores.


11. Does Oxford MFE have an interview? 

Yes, all applicants must complete a Kira Talent video interview, which includes 4 verbal and 1 written response questions.


12. Is Oxford Economics prestigious? 

Yes, Oxford’s Department of Economics is internationally renowned for its research, academic excellence, and policy influence.


13. What is Oxford MSc Financial Economics ranked? 

The Oxford MFE is ranked #1 globally in the QS Master in Finance 2025 rankings and leads in Thought Leadership, Employability, and Alumni Outcomes.


14. What is the scholarship for MSc Financial Economics at Oxford? 

Scholarships include the Oxford Saïd Future Leaders Scholarship, Rewley Scholarships, Forté Fellowships, and regional scholarships. Many are merit-based and do not require a separate application.


15. What is the acceptance rate for Oxford Economics? 

While full program-wide stats are not published, the MFE has an approximate acceptance rate of 9.3%, indicating Oxford Economics’ elite status.


16. Is Oxford good for finance? 

Yes. Oxford offers a world-class finance education, delivered jointly by its business school and economics department, with strong placement outcomes and employer connections.


17. What is MSc in financial economics MFE Oxford? 

It’s a nine-month graduate degree jointly delivered by Saïd Business School and the Department of Economics, designed to combine finance theory with applied analytical skills.


18. Which is better MA Economics or MSc Economics? 

An MSc in Economics is typically more quantitative and analytical than an MA, making it better suited for careers in finance or advanced economic research.


19. Is economics at Oxford hard? 

Yes, the economics curriculum at Oxford is rigorous and math-heavy, demanding a strong foundation in analytical and quantitative thinking.


20. Is Oxford Masters competitive? 

Very much so. Oxford’s master's programs receive thousands of applications annually, and programs like the MFE have single-digit acceptance rates.


21. Is MSc finance at LSE hard? 

Yes, LSE’s MSc Finance is academically demanding and known for its intensive quantitative focus, comparable in rigor to the Oxford MFE.


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🇦🇺 Masters Degrees in Australia: From PR Pathways to Industry Focus

  • What It Covers: Explores Australia’s unique combination of high academic standards and immigration-friendly policies.

  • Why It’s Valuable: Great for applicants balancing career growth, global mobility, and a relaxed lifestyle.

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🎯 Domain-Specific Masters Programs

🇺🇸 Specialized Masters Degrees in the USA: Beyond the MBA

  • What It Covers: Covers niche programs in analytics, marketing, finance, and more, with a spotlight on top-ranked schools.

  • Why It’s Valuable: For applicants seeking deep expertise without the time or cost commitment of a full MBA.

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🎨 Masters in Branding: The Ultimate Guide to Specialized Graduate Programs

  • What It Covers: Deep dive into programs like the Masters in Branding from SVA, NYU, and European schools.

  • Why It’s Valuable: A rare and highly focused guide for creative professionals transitioning into strategic roles.

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🌱 Climate Education from Europe’s Premier Master’s Degrees

  • What It Covers: Highlights top programs in environmental sustainability, climate change, and policy from universities in Sweden, France, and the Netherlands.

  • Why It’s Valuable: For future sustainability leaders looking to gain interdisciplinary training and policy-level insights.

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📊 Masters in Analytics in Europe: Data-Driven Careers Begin Here

  • What It Covers: Covers the rise of data-focused programs across Europe—curriculum, admissions, and post-study job opportunities.

  • Why It’s Valuable: Perfect for tech-savvy professionals pivoting into data science, business analytics, or AI roles.

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📚 Masters in Education in Europe: For Change-Makers in the Classroom

  • What It Covers: Profiles top universities offering innovative education and pedagogy programs focused on impact.

  • Why It’s Valuable: A solid starting point for future educators, curriculum designers, or education policy professionals.

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💰 Masters in Finance in Europe: Strong Academia Meets Global Careers

  • What It Covers: Breakdown of elite finance programs like HEC Paris, Bocconi, and SSE with career data and program highlights.

  • Why It’s Valuable: Ideal for those targeting roles in investment banking, asset management, or fintech across Europe and beyond.

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