Joining FT but need to delay Graduation

TLDR: need to delay grad, will not impact work, do I tell HR?

Keeping vague for obvious reasons. I'm joining FT this summer, but need to delay grad to take 1-2 elective courses. I will be finished them over a month before starting FT, and my school will provide transcripts and letters saying my "degree is complete" or something along those lines.

I know other people in my bank in different business lines across IB/S&T who have joined before officially graduating their undergrad / masters, but after finishing their courses (due to start dates, or other factors), but IDK if they told HR before hitting the desk or not.

My official grad date will be in the fall, I don't care for the ceremony so will get it mailed and won't cause delay on work. Idk if I should tell HR / the new grad support now, or wait until someone asks me about it after I've hit the desk, and I can provide the proof from school that says I finished the degree

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's the playbook for your situation:

  1. Check Your Offer Letter: Review the terms of your full-time offer. If it explicitly states that graduation is a requirement before starting, you may need to address this proactively with HR. However, if it doesn't specify, you might have more flexibility.

  2. Leverage Precedents: As you've mentioned, others in your bank have joined before officially graduating but after completing their coursework. This suggests that banks are often flexible as long as you can prove your degree requirements are complete.

  3. Proactive Communication: It's generally better to be upfront with HR. Inform them that your coursework will be completed before your start date and that your school can provide documentation confirming your degree is complete. This transparency can prevent any potential issues later.

  4. Provide Documentation: When you inform HR, have your school's letter or transcript ready to show that your degree requirements are fulfilled. This will help reassure them that your situation won't impact your ability to start work.

  5. Timing Matters: If you're hesitant to bring it up now, you could wait until closer to your start date or until someone asks. However, delaying the conversation might create unnecessary stress or complications if HR finds out later.

  6. Focus on the Impact: Emphasize that your delayed official graduation date will not affect your ability to start work or perform your role. Highlight that you’ll have completed all coursework and can provide proof.

Ultimately, being upfront and prepared with documentation is usually the safest route. Banks value transparency, and as long as you can demonstrate that your degree requirements are complete, this should not be a major issue.

Sources: Got a SA Offer at BB...but I'm a current junior help!!, Should I Slow Down?, International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, How does Opt-in Pass/Fail look for IB Recruiting?, I need your advice

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

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