We know that your Master of Finance (MFin) interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, so in this article we share some advice on how to prepare for your interview.
Why the interview process is so important
Your interview is an opportunity to showcase your experience, achievements and goals beyond your written application and personal statement. It’s a chance for the interviewer to understand your motivation for applying to the programme and what you can contribute to the cohort. But remember, it is also a two-way conversation, and you should find it a valuable experience too. All prospective candidates will be interviewed by a member of our finance faculty, so it is also a unique opportunity to meet with the individuals who will be teaching you on the programme.
Preparing for your interview
Just like a job interview, you should spend some time researching the programme and be able to clearly articulate your reasons for applying. Think about your academic and professional achievements and how the MFin will help you achieve your career goals. Learning from your peer group is an important element of the programme, so consider how your background, skills, personality and experience will add value to the cohort. Dr Pedro Saffi, Director of the MFin Programme, advises candidates to “Think about why you have chosen Cambridge. In terms of your future career goals, what are your plans after graduation?”
What to expect at a Cambridge MFin interview
Your interview will be with a member of our finance faculty and last up to 45 minutes. There are no set questions, and it is not a technical interview. Your interviewer will ask you about your academic and professional experience, your career objectives and your quantitative skills relevant to finance.
We recommend that you re-read your application ahead of your interview and think about the key points you want to convey during your interview. Try to give direct answers with specific examples and prepare a few questions about the programme or the Business School. “The interviewer will also spend some time talking about the programme itself, and there is usually time at the end for interviewees to ask questions about the programme.” says Dr Saffi. After the interview, applicants often tell us how much they enjoyed talking to the member of faculty and the range of topics covered during their interview.
After the interview
Interview candidates will normally be contacted within a week of their interview to be informed of the Admissions Committee’s final decision. If we offer you a place on the Cambridge MFin, you will be notified by email. This email will contain details of your offer deadline – which is normally four weeks after you receive your offer – and outline any offer conditions that you might have. We will also ask you to demonstrate how you plan fund the programme and for a reservation fee of 10% of the programme fee.
Some final advice
If you are being interviewed online, we recommend that you do a test call first and make sure that you have a steady internet connection. Make that sure you are well-presented and talk directly to the camera. Remember, you have been asked for an interview because we already think you are a good fit for Cambridge Judge. Good luck!