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The MSc Mathematics and Finance (MAF) at Imperial College London is a demanding but rewarding postgraduate programme in the UK. However, with its reputation comes intense competition. Thousands of mathematical students apply from around the world, but only the most exceptional applicants secure a place.
At The Profs, our students consistently outperform the odds. In this guide, Joe, The Profs’ award-winning Admissions Consultant and a former investment banker, shares his three insider tips for securing a place on Imperial’s MSc MAF. Our Imperial Admissions Tutors have helped hundreds of students secure life-changing offers, so if anyone knows how to maximise your chances of success, it’s us.
Keep reading to discover how to make your application stand out, or watch our video:
Contents:
- Entry Requirements: MSc Mathematics and Finance at Imperial
- Is the MSc Mathematics and Finance Right for You?
- Top 3 Tips to Get Into Imperial MSc Mathematics and Finance
- How The Profs Can Help You Secure Your Place at Imperial MSc Mathematics and Finance
Entry Requirements: MSc Mathematics and Finance at Imperial
MAF at Imperial is an academically rigorous course taught by the Department of Mathematics, not the Business School. So, they prioritise strong quantitative training and academic preparation over professional experience.
Academic Requirements
You must hold at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in a highly quantitative discipline. This can be Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, or Physics.
Because the course assumes significant mathematical depth, international applicants are advised to contact the Department of Mathematics in advance to confirm that their undergraduate modules meet the prerequisites.
If your degree is not substantially mathematical, you may be better suited to Imperial’s Business School finance programmes instead.
English Language Requirements
Imperial recognises two English language standards (Standard and Higher). Most students applying to this degree will need to meet the Higher level, which is commonly met through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE or Cambridge English.
You only need to fulfil one of the following:
- Achieve the required score in an approved English test.
- Qualify for an exemption based on prior study in English.
- Complete Imperial’s approved pre-sessional English course (postgraduates only).
Is the MSc Mathematics and Finance Right for You?
Before applying, it’s essential to understand what makes this degree unique. Many students confuse Imperial’s MSc MAF with its more widely known Finance Master’s offered by the Business School. However, these programmes differ significantly in their application expectations.
Taught by the Department of Mathematics
This MSc is taught entirely by the Department of Mathematics on the South Kensington campus. As a result, the programme is highly theoretical and conceptually demanding.
It is not a Business School programme, although a small number of elective modules may overlap with those taught in the Finance MSc. This distinction is crucial because it changes both the kind of applicant Imperial is looking for and the way you should approach your application.
Designed for Quantitative Applicants
Because it is mathematics-led, this programme prioritises academic preparation over professional experience. Strong performance in quantitative subjects, including exposure to relevant theories and research, will matter more than your internship or work history.
If your academic background sits outside mathematics, physics, or statistics, you may be better suited to a Finance programme within the Business School rather than this Mathematical Finance degree.
Imperial is looking for applicants who:
- Are comfortable with rigorous quantitative reasoning.
- Enjoy academic exploration.
- Value theory and research.
- Can demonstrate prior exposure to advanced mathematics.
A Better Fit If You Enjoy Theory and Research
This course is ideal for candidates who are excited by the theoretical foundation of quantitative finance, and enjoy working with models. It is also important that you are able to show prior academic exposure to advanced mathematics or statistics.
Top 3 Tips to Get Into Imperial MSc Mathematics and Finance
1. Know How the Application Process Differs
MSc Mathematics and Finance Applications:
The MSc MAF follows a traditional academic application process. You must submit a personal statement of one to two pages, similar to other UK postgraduate courses.
Applicants to non-Business School programmes may also apply to two Imperial programmes in the same cycle. You can either include both statements in one document or provide a second statement later if needed. Since the same admissions team reviews both applications, ensure your messaging remains consistent across them.
Business School Applications:
Imperial Business School uses a distinct admissions process compared to academic departments. Applicants do not submit a personal statement; instead, they answer a series of structured questions within the online application portal. These questions focus on motivation, career goals, and suitability for the programme.
Another key rule is that candidates may only apply to one Business School programme per admissions cycle. If unsuccessful, applicants may be automatically considered for other programmes within the same stream, but they cannot submit a second independent application.
Understanding these procedural differences early will help you plan strategically and present the strongest possible application.
2. Tailor Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement is central to this application because the Mathematics Department assesses your academic potential directly. You need to build a clear identity rooted in quantitative finance. The most competitive applications explain how your past studies and academic interests logically connect to mathematical finance.
If you have finance-related internships, include them, but focus on discussing them from a theoretical perspective. Instead of focusing on business operations, emphasise the models and mathematical concepts you applied.
The goal is to demonstrate that you are not only capable of handling the mathematical depth but also genuinely motivated by it.
Need guidance? Our Personal Statement Tutors can help you translate the motivation behind your chosen subject into a narrative that feels genuine and academically grounded. We have ex-admissions officers in our network with years, if not decades, of insider knowledge to give you the edge you need.
3. Manage Your References
Reference management is a common reason students submit late applications. Imperial requires two references, with at least one academic. It is preferable to obtain both of your references from academics, as you can always include a professional referee as additional documentation or email it to the department.
It is essential to build relationships with your referees early. Let them know about your plans and provide all the necessary information, such as your CV and personal statement, so that they can write a firm, detailed reference.
If you have weaknesses in your application, such as a low grade in a relevant module, do not attempt to justify it yourself. Instead, your referee should provide context on your behalf. This can make a significant difference in how the admissions team interprets your profile.
Here at The Profs, we provide our clients with templates and guidance to send to referees, ensuring the reference strategically supports the application.
How The Profs Can Help You Secure Your Place at Imperial MSc Mathematics and Finance
Gaining a place on Imperial’s MSc MAF is not easy. However, The Profs have all the expert knowledge and resources to maximise the success of your application.
Our expert Postgraduate Admissions Tutors understand exactly what Imperial’s mathematics department looks for. We can help you craft an application that sets you apart from the crowd by tailoring it for exactly what the Imperial admission team looks for. In fact, 89% of postgraduates who worked with The Profs tutors gain admission to their first-choice university.*
If you’re ready to start your application journey, our award-winning team of matching experts will personally connect you to one of our University Admissions Tutors.
*Source: Postgraduate applicant data from The Profs Client Feedback Survey 2025.
FAQs about How to get into MSc Mathematics and Finance at Imperial
Is the MSc Mathematics and Finance right for you?
The MSc Mathematics and Finance at Imperial is designed for prospective students who want to study at a high quantitative level and solve advanced problems in finance. The course combines mathematics, science and technology with applied learning in areas such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, algorithmic trading, stochastic control, mathematical optimisation and quantitative analysis (finance). You will apply methods used to solve financial problems, including numerical methods for partial differential equations, simulation, diffusion model techniques, stochastic differential equation modelling and probabilistic numerics.
It suits graduates in mathematical sciences who have already covered algebra, calculus, real analysis, numerical analysis, differential equation methods and statistics at undergraduate degree level. If you want to study at Imperial and pursue a career in the realm of quantitative finance, this MSc is a strong fit.
What is the hardest course to get into at Imperial?
While the level of competitiveness changes each year, the MSc in Computing is commonly considered one of the most demanding courses due to its technical entry requirements and high application volume.
What is better, LSE or Imperial?
Both universities have strong reputations in the United Kingdom and internationally. Imperial tends to rank higher in global university league tables, especially for STEM subjects and quantitative courses. LSE remains exceptional for social sciences and management. Your choice will depend on the programme, the department and whether you prefer a business school environment or one that is grounded in natural sciences, mathematics and engineering.
Is mathematical finance hard?
Yes. Mathematical finance draws on applied mathematics, financial theory and quantitative research. Students often work with differential equations, partial differential equation models, finite difference and finite difference method frameworks, numerical integration, stochastic process analysis and mathematical analysis techniques. This combination makes the field demanding for anyone without strong prior knowledge.
What can I do after I complete my MSc in Mathematics and Finance at Imperial?
Graduates typically move into roles in:
- Quantitative research.
- Trading.
- Asset management.
- Investment banking.
- Risk management.
- Data analysis.
- Financial modelling.
Many also work in financial services sectors such as investment management, algorithmic trading or technology-driven finance. Some graduates secure an internship or full-time position at a bank, hedge fund, fintech firm or consultancy.
Which scholarships are available for MSc Mathematics and Finance at Imperial?
Imperial College London offers internal scholarships for postgraduate programmes. These awards often consider academic excellence, financial need or specific eligibility conditions. International student applicants sometimes access alternative external scholarships, including support from foundations or industry organisations. Fees vary, so applicants should research tuition fees, fee status information and tuition payments early in the admissions process. Full details are available on Imperial College London’s site.
How hard is it to get into a master’s at Imperial?
Imperial uses a staged admissions process with several deadlines throughout the year. Applicants must research the entry requirements for their chosen MSc programme, including:
- The graduate management admission test (GMAT) or the graduate record examinations (GRE).
- At least a UK Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent.
- Relevant experience.
Imperial is looking for students who can achieve high standards in postgraduate programmes and demonstrate a clear interest in finance or mathematical sciences. Because the admissions team reviews many applications, applicants should submit ahead of the application deadline and contact the relevant admissions team if they need clarification about the programme.
Which is more prestigious, UCL or Imperial?
The answer will depend on the field. Imperial is often seen as stronger for mathematics, science, engineering and quantitative finance. UCL excels in social sciences, humanities, architecture and interdisciplinary study. Both universities have strong undergraduate education and postgraduate options, and both maintain close ties with the University of London. Applicants should consider the department, entry requirements, and the type of research or project work they want to pursue.
