Breaking into AM from a non target

Is recruitment in AM as competitive as IB interms of the schools they recruit from? Possibly going to UCL/Bath/Kings/Bayes/Manchester, certain I don't want to work in IB but what are the odds of getting into front office asset management from one of these schools? 

2 Comments
 

Breaking into front office asset management (AM) from non-target schools can indeed be challenging, but it's not impossible. Here’s what you need to know based on the most helpful WSO content:

  1. Target Schools Predominance: Top asset managers tend to recruit almost exclusively from top target schools. However, schools like UCL, King's College, and Manchester are well-regarded and can be considered strong semi-targets, especially in the UK. This increases your chances compared to other non-target institutions.

  2. Internships and Networking: Securing internships is crucial. Most roles in AM are filled through internships, similar to the banking sector. Leverage any internships and use them as a stepping stone to demonstrate your skills and commitment to a career in AM.

  3. Boutique Firms: While larger firms have rigorous recruitment processes favoring target schools, boutique asset managers might offer more flexibility. They often value direct applications and networking. The culture in these firms is typically tight-knit, and they may prioritize finding the right fit for their team over pedigree.

  4. Resume and GPA: Ensure your resume is polished and highlights relevant experience and skills. A strong GPA and relevant coursework or projects can also significantly bolster your application.

  5. Utilize Available Resources: Make the most of your school's career services, alumni network, and any finance clubs or societies. Attending industry talks and networking events can also provide valuable connections and insights into the industry.

  6. Persistence and Broad Applications: Be persistent and apply broadly. Consider various roles within AM firms, including those that might not be your first choice, to get your foot in the door.

While the competition might not be as fierce as in investment banking, the smaller intake in AM does make it competitive. Equip yourself with a strong application, and leverage every opportunity to network and gain relevant experience.

Sources: How competitive is it to get asset management out of undergrad?, Asset Management vs Investment Banking 101, Breaking into long only Asset Management, Asset Management vs Investment Banking for exit opps into value-based hedge funds

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

Sit veniam ipsum minus quaerat. Consequatur ex similique quo adipisci aut cumque. Nulla sapiente numquam nulla et ullam eaque. Ut cumque accusamus sed nihil dolores tempora vel. Architecto ipsum fugit adipisci ratione.

Totam dolor qui omnis eos. Ut consequatur et ut excepturi molestias perferendis.

Suscipit sunt autem quam ipsa officia nobis. Impedit quam ut amet enim eum laudantium libero. Voluptatem quas dolorem modi. Et est molestiae ipsam labore. Vel explicabo esse sit quam.

Neque cum consectetur reprehenderit. Molestias repudiandae occaecati et non ea. Qui tempora optio debitis veniam enim explicabo omnis minima. Minima aspernatur molestiae amet placeat facere beatae. Maiores neque harum laborum vitae. Reiciendis qui atque sed similique voluptas ut qui.

Career Advancement Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.2%

Professional Growth Opportunities

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.7%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.2%

Total Avg Compensation

July 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (46) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (80) $150
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (73) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
10
Linda Abraham's picture
Linda Abraham
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”