Applying for IBD Grad scheme after 4 years at Big 4 audit? (London)

Hey all,

Im currently on a hybrid programme with one of the Big 4 in Bank audit which also allows me to get a degree from a Russell group university (non-target). I work half the time and got to university the other half. I walk out with a Bsc Accountancy degree after 4 years and the ACA after 5 years.

I want to eventually make the jump to IBD and was considering the best way to do it.

1) Would I stand a chance applying for IBD grad schemes in my last year with no internships, SA's and so forth, but with 3/4 years of Big 4 Bank audit experience under my belt? I would be part ACA qualified at this time.

2) Would I be precluded from applying for grad roles because of my experience? I hoped it wouldn't be an issue because when I get my degree, I will be on par with a "normal" grad (albeit with the experience).

3) Is it worth lateralling from audit to TS/CF after getting the ACA, then to IBD? I understand this is not as easy as it sounds.

Any advice on the above would be appreciated.

Cheers.