How late is too late to apply to banks?

I will be applying to a variety of BBs and Boutiques (full-time analyst) and was curious about when I should be applying. I go to a target and some friends have already sent in multiple applications. I was planning on sending mine in around the first week of October so I can have ample time to revise and edit my documents as well as prepare for technicals. Would that be too late?

Input is appreciated

When is it too late to apply for full time positions in investment banking?

The recruiting process for full-time positions in target schools. The bank will open a resume drop a few weeks after their visit. After that, they will begin inviting candidates for on-campus interviews. The interview process goes from there until some time in December.

It is important to mindful of deadlines for applications. Early applications don’t get you any bonus points. Just get the application in before the deadline. Full-time positions are scarce and the competition is fierce. Your chances of getting an interview are slim to none if you haven't submitted an application by the deadline.

There is an exception to this. If you have a senior connection in the bank who already has your resume (through networking) they may be able to help you out. However, this has to be a really strong connection to omit something like the application process altogether.

from certified user @NorthSider"

It doesn't matter: firms will make decisions on the candidates they give interviews after the deadline and will not consider the time your application was submitted (as long as it wasn't late).

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20 Comments
 
WSOWillI go to a non target, start applying now?

I need a few more weeks to buff up the resume with substance; don't want to BS it

I don't see how you can fundamentally change your credentials in a few weeks. Updating your resume and getting some second opinions should take no more than a few days.

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Yea Ive check OCR and a few banks have posted but some still refer to the online document. So im not sure if I should apply closer to their deadlines or just get it in early...

 

Honestly, if you're starting now you're already pretty late. I'd get a move on as fast as I can if I were you, there aren't that many spots across the street that weren't taken up by summers and they're being snatched up fast.

 
batchavisAlready too late son. Most banks are pretty much done/wrapping up recruiting.

this is wrong, but you are late bro.

'Before you enter... be willing to pay the price'
 

The first recruiting partners event is on campus tomorrow... Goldman, MS, DB, CS, Nomura, BoA, HSBC, Barcap, etc all attending... The only reason I haven't sent in applications was to see if they put a school specific one up on my career site but, so far only Citigroup has... So should I just send them all anyways or hold off another week?

 

I go to a non-target, right now you are on the late side of the BB, but maybe you shouldn't focus on them and instead focus on Middle Markets to small boutique.

 

Never to early to start, I would get on top if it now. Get familiar withe banks that your are interested in, if they are boutique a lot of the times the will hire as staff is needed. It doesn't hurt utilizing any network to build upon the network now. It's pretty much your only hope to get into banking--also is the best chance of getting in regardless if your from a target or not.

 

It doesn't matter: firms will make decisions on the candidates they give interviews after the deadline and will not consider the time your application was submitted (as long as it wasn't late).

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Prospector101so candidates who applied earlier dont have an advantage? its not like rolling admissions then

....wondering same thing: points for being super early?

Get busy living
 

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