Is it realistically possible to break into Singapore IB as a non-target Thai student?

I study at a top university in Thailand in finance, currently on track for first class honors. I’ve interned at a leading local IB, an international boutique private fund, and a Singaporean PE firm’s Thailand office. I also have multiple academic and leadership achievements.

But despite that, it still feels nearly impossible to even get past the first CV screening for Singapore entry level/Intern IB roles.

Would genuinely appreciate hearing from anyone who has successfully made the jump from a non-target Southeast Asian background.

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Have seen one analyst transfer from a BB’s Thailand or Vietnam office to SG office over the years, but straight out of undergrad I’d say it’s pretty impossible given your need for an employment pass. They’re making it more difficult to hire foreigners especially for entry level roles in SG, and there are hardly any BB/EB IBD analyst spots that will also surely all go to:
1) ultra sweaty Singaporeans studying in NUS/NTU/SMU who completed 6-8 front office internships in college by taking multiple semesters off to work

2) ultra sweaty Singaporeans studying abroad at U.S. / UK target schools with a few internships under their belt

When competition is this stiff, don’t think you stand much chance given the nationality situation. Best bet work in Thailand for a big bank and then transfer to their SG branch.

 

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