Bocconi Undergrad to London IB
Hi everyone,
I am a bocconi bachelor student (2nd year) and I would like to apply to investment banking internships in London for the next summer. However, I have read and talked to several people who told me that it is almost impossible to get straight into IB during your bachelor and that I need to get a master’s, since only UK local students are used to going into IB with their bachelor only. Is this true? Is it because of Italian students habits that they only apply after their master’s or is it really that difficult to get into IB being a Bocconi student only with a bachelor?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, breaking into London IB directly from a bachelor's degree, especially as an international student, can indeed be challenging but not impossible. Here's what you need to know:
Master's Degree Preference: In Europe, it's common for students to pursue a Master's in Finance or a related field before applying for investment banking roles. This is partly due to the competitive nature of the industry and the perception that a Master's provides additional technical skills and maturity.
UK Local Students vs. International Students: UK students often enter IB roles directly after their bachelor's because of structured programs like spring weeks and summer internships, which are heavily targeted at penultimate-year students. For international students, especially from non-UK universities, the path is less straightforward due to visa requirements and the need to stand out in a highly competitive pool.
Bocconi Advantage: As a Bocconi student, you already have a strong brand name on your CV, which is well-recognized in the finance industry. However, leveraging this advantage requires strategic planning:
Timing and Applications: If you decide to apply during your bachelor's, ensure your CV is optimized for the London market and that you apply as early as possible. Timing is critical, as many banks have rolling applications.
Alternative Path: If you don't secure a role during your bachelor's, pursuing a Master's in Finance at a top institution (e.g., LSE, Oxford, or even Bocconi's own Master's program) can significantly enhance your chances. Many students from Bocconi follow this route and successfully break into London IB.
In summary, while it is more common for Bocconi students to enter IB after a Master's, it is not impossible to do so with just a bachelor's. Focus on gaining relevant experience, networking, and applying strategically to maximize your chances.
Sources: International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, London IB Summer Internship Discussion 2018
Every year thousands of kids get the bocconi brand on their CV. Not everyone lands into London Finance. Yes it's a good school but its not automatic
Option 1: Get a spring, convert it into summer. Not a unique path, even semi targets can do this.
Option 2: get experiences in Italy (big 4, boutique etc), then apply for a 1 year master (LSE/LBS etc.) in the UK
Option 3 (which most Italians do) : go to a 2 year master (HEC/ESCP etc.) right away with a gap year in between to get experience
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