For IBD, a NORMAL minimum would probably be much higher than 3.0, more like 3.5. If you had a 3.0 at a target, you probably wouldn't even get an interview unless you had something that's damned impressive on your resume. Even if you did, it's highly unlikely you would get past that, and then further, it would be terrible for group placement.

In any case, does it really matter? Try to get as high a gpa as possible. If your gpa doesn't cut it, will that change your mind about where you apply? If not, then this question is trivial.

 
Mr. White:
For IBD, a NORMAL minimum would probably be much higher than 3.0, more like 3.5. If you had a 3.0 at a target, you probably wouldn't even get an interview unless you had something that's damned impressive on your resume.
what would be something impressive?
 

Out of curiosity, what is your target gpa? And just as an aside do you actually care what other people have to say, or are you just looking for someone to agree with what you're asking?

 

Technically, if you have a good model you think you can use to trade and, in fact, show them that you used that model to generate even 10% return over a certain period....they'll hire you right away without looking at transcript.

Other than that, yes, they are a little easy on the requirements as compared to IBD.

 

Structuring definately requires a quant skillset out of college, math, engineering, physics etc, plus some pretty strong computer skills.

Im not sure about the 3.0 minimum, most people i know who work in sales and trading had gpas over 3.5, need a higher one if you arent from a target school

 
dmoran101:
Structuring definately requires a quant skillset out of college, math, engineering, physics etc, plus some pretty strong computer skills.

Im not sure about the 3.0 minimum, most people i know who work in sales and trading had gpas over 3.5, need a higher one if you arent from a target school

The minimum in screening is definitely lower than M/A but not by much. And yes you're right, most guys in the DCM/ECM are just as smart as the corporate finance/Mergers & Acquisitions group.

I remember GS' FICC (Fixed Income/Commodities and Currencies) division specifically stated it rathered engineers, physicists and math majors over finance majors.

 

I don't think anyone here can answer that question with certainty. It surely would at least partially depend on where you go to school and what you study. I know of at least one kid at my school (target) that got into gs securities with below a 3.5, but he was an engineering student.

 

Grades might get you simply an interview, but it matters very little for the actual interview. Know these things daily as youre interviewing.

S&P (or Dow) FTSE (one more random EU index, Dax or Cac should do) US 3mo, 10yr, 30yr yields LIBOR A credit index or 2 might help (SovX, Xover) EURUSD Gold, Oil If youre London based, know a bit about the bailouts and conditions, EFSF, etc.

Focus more on one aspect depending on the actual desk the interview is for. Oh and always be ready to pitch an investment idea. And dont say 'i like aapl bro:)'

 

yeah, I'll be honest, I'm a bit concerned about getting that first interview to begin with. Most people say its a faux pas to apply for both IBD and S&T at the same bank so I want to apply where I think I have a shot.

 

You are probably fine if you start moving now. With S&T in particular, my understanding is there is more flexibility with grades than IBD. However, as a non-target, it will be incumbent on you to find people at these firms so your resume doesn't get thrown out by the screener.

"There are three ways to make a living in this business: be first, be smarter, or cheat."
 

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