The "Am I good enough for Investment Banking/Consultancy?" Thread

Hi guys,

I'd like to ask you how much does A-level (or european equivalent) count if you apply for a summer intenrship holding a first class undergrad and attending one of top MSc in finance?

It's not my case, if was just wondering.. Will (low) A-levels put you out from IB career slthough you had a very good pattern at university?

Depends on what you mean by low. A number filter out applications below the minimum threshold of around 340 UCAS points (AAB) despite undergrad achievements. It's to sort out the sheer number of applicants mostly.

Oh, okay, thanks for reply

As a foreign person, it is a little bit strange that although you are nearly closed to get a top MSc (I mean one of top business school worlwide), you can be cutted of because of your grades (that you achieve at 19.........)

Sucks and isn't really a true test of ability but I suppose it shows other strengths like a candidates consistency, drive & historical track record. Also it's fairly efficient in terms of cutting down numbers for interview stages.

Hi, I got into LSE's Bsc Management but even though I was predicted A*A*A I only achieved AAB. Would this hinder my chances in the future when applying for IB jobs even if I get at least a 2:1 at uni?

Wow, you're in LSE with those grades? No, it wouldn't hinder IB applications IMO, as you're pass the A-level filter. But wow, were you given an AAB conditional from LSE (which you just met)? This must be a decent/easier way to get to places... Management includes some Econ, right?

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Hi, I got into LSE's Bsc Management but even though I was predicted A*A*A I only achieved AAB. Would this hinder my chances in the future when applying for IB jobs even if I get at least a 2:1 at uni?

Management is considered as a very soft course by BB IBs, even if it's LSE, so your a levels shouldn't be your main cause for concern. Get a whole load of experience and network with the right people, and you should be fine. Sorry if it sounds harsh, but just thought I'd give you honest advice.


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Thank you for your honest advice, it is much appreciated. I understand that management is seen as a soft subject but a lot of lse management graduates have gotten into BB IBs so hopefully I'll stand a fighting chance. Any specific places you'd recommend gaining experience from in London? I have experience from KPMG, HSBC and BNP paribas even before university so I plan to stay on a similar level. Would a post-graduate degree help get rid of the soft impression of my application and if so in what course?
thanks

Yep.

Idgaf, yes, it is short talk now, but if I do manage get CRAZY grades, like A*A*A or better, or if I do that and successfully self-teach myself FM, I'll go for Land Economy at Cambridge. Extremely interesting course and blend of topics, and a absolutely insane life and job/money prospects...

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And yet here you are....still posting on TSR, adding no value whatsoever

This year I got AAAB in my AS levels and A*A*A predictions for my A-levels and UCAS form - so hopefully I have a good chance at LSE A&F because A*A*A is way above the AAA predictions needed.

I was just going to ask, is it better if I do an easier course at LSE such as A&F than a harder course like Economics at Bristol. I heard prestige of the university is much much more important for IB jobs.


Thanks.

Agreed.

So what about bristol and exeter ?

Thank you for your honest advice, it is much appreciated. I understand that management is seen as a soft subject but a lot of lse management graduates have gotten into BB IBs so hopefully I'll stand a fighting chance. Any specific places you'd recommend gaining experience from in London? I have experience from KPMG, HSBC and BNP paribas even before university so I plan to stay on a similar level. Would a post-graduate degree help get rid of the soft impression of my application and if so in what course?
thanks

. A masters in finance (or something along the same lines) would also be very beneficial, and you could possibly be looking at going straight away into IB as an Associate.