CFA & GMAT for endowment / foundations

Hi everyone! I'm a recent college graduate and I've been giving a lot of thought to what I'd like to do in the long run. I'm super interested in the endowment / foundations space. Right now, I'm signed to start a job at a very big LP (on the direct investments side). I considered going straight for endowments right out of college, but one of my contacts at a big endowment said I should take the LP offer instead. After doing some research, I've seen that most people in higher levels in E/F have gotten their MBAs and also taken the CFA. I think I'd need to do both as well, especially because there aren't a lot of seats / turnover in the E/F space. I was wondering what you guys think my timeline should be? Should I take CFA or GMAT first? 

Also, I've heard that it's hard to promote from analyst to associate at E/F. After doing 2 years at the LP, would I still be starting out as an analyst at an E/F? 

Thanks! 

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about pursuing a career in endowments and foundations (E/F) and the role of CFA and GMAT in your journey:

Timeline for CFA and GMAT:

  1. GMAT First:

    • Priority: Focus on crushing the GMAT first. A high GMAT score (750 or better) can significantly enhance your MBA application.
    • Preparation: Prepare for 2-3 months, take 6-10 practice tests, and review explanations for each. Consider Kaplan or Manhattan prep for courses and materials.
    • Timing: Statistically, test-takers score higher when still in college or soon after, so take advantage of this period.
  2. CFA Next:

    • CFA as Icing: Once you have a strong GMAT score, you can move on to the CFA. The CFA is valuable, especially if you aim to move into hedge funds or portfolio management.
    • Workload: Be prepared for the intense workload. Passing all three levels while working in investment banking is challenging. You might manage Level 1, but Levels II and III require significant dedication.

Career Path and Promotion:

  • Starting Position: After two years at the LP, transitioning to an E/F might still mean starting as an analyst. Promotion from analyst to associate in E/F is known to be challenging due to limited seats and turnover.
  • MBA and CFA: Most higher-level professionals in E/F have both an MBA and CFA. This combination can make you a more competitive candidate for promotions and higher-level roles.

Additional Tips:

  • Networking: Continue to network and seek advice from contacts in the E/F space. Their insights can be invaluable.
  • Leadership and Community Roles: Consider taking on additional leadership or community roles to strengthen your profile for MBA applications.

By following this timeline and focusing on both the GMAT and CFA, you'll be well-prepared for a successful career in endowments and foundations. Good luck!

Sources: Ask mbaMission about Business School Admissions, Does having the CFA help for MBA admission?, Does the CFA® help you get into Business School?, Why Canadians get an MBA AND the CFA, WSO Hall of Fame: Business School and GMAT Forum

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

If you’re already in LP world, you don’t need an MBA. A CFA will take you further from a career advancement perspective and you don’t have to take the time out of the workforce. Career switchers need an MBA to get the job you already have. Since E&Fs don’t recruit from MBA programs (at least not intentionally the way banks and consulting firms do), you’re taking career risk by going to business school in order to go right back to the industry you have already been in.

 

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