IB internship in Paris without a Masters?

Hi guys,

I've got a niche question here but would appreciate any advice. 

Currently doing a dual degree bachelors (Bac+4) program with a tier 2 Grande École (Think SKEMA, KEDGE, NEOMA). I speak French fluently (C1 level). I need a 6 month off cycle from January 2025 to complete the French part of my degree and am wondering what my chances of getting an M&A internship in Paris are. I have completed four previous internships in other European countries including 6 months in Transaction Services at a Big 4 and an IB summer internship at a London MM bank. 

I know the French banks really favour masters students from a couple of elite schools, so I wanted to know if I really have no chance with my background or if it's possible even though unlikely. I'd be happy to work in a smaller boutique as long as its front office M&A. Am I being too optimistic? 

Any advice appreciated!

Cheers

11 Comments
 

Thanks for the reply. I don't suppose you have any recommendations on where to find smaller firms like that? I am also targeting the French banks but recently got rejected from CACIB :) Not sure if it's a problem with my cover letter / experience or if it was just not being a masters student. I guess I am having a reality check because from my experience in anglophone countries getting good internships from a non-target is very possible if you have strong experience. 

 
Most Helpful

Boutique : Alantra, Cambon, Bryan Garnier, Clipperton, Degroof, Goetz...
A lot of M&A boutiques in Paris.

Your best shot is to contact people directly, try by mail. Ask for a call, ask real questions, not things which can easily be found on Internet, then explain what you want. With TS xp, you should be able to find something.

 

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