Need Advice: Breaking into IB FT from LSE (Low GPA, Targeting London or Tokyo)
Hi everyone,
I’m a rising senior at Bentley University majoring in Economics and Finance. This fall, I’ll be attending the LSE General Course for my final year, and I’m hoping to use the experience to land a full-time IB role—ideally in London, or possibly at a Japanese bank (big fan of the culture and long-term outlook).
Quick background: • Cumulative GPA: 3.45 • Major GPA: 3.7 (Econ/Finance) • Current Experience: Doing PE/alternative investments work this summer at a small firm in Miami, and previously interned at Castle Placement (IB boutique)
I’m looking for advice on: 1. FT Recruiting Strategy: Is it realistic to land FT roles in London or Tokyo given my profile? Which firms/programs should I focus on? 2. Networking: How should I network while at LSE to stand out—especially with international offices or Japanese firms? 3. Skill Development: Any courses (modeling, accounting refreshers, etc.) I should take before/during senior year? 4. General Tips: Anything I can do to differentiate from UK/LSE peers with stronger academic stats?
I know my GPA isn’t perfect, but I’m hungry, globally minded, and putting in the work. Would really appreciate any feedback, brutal honesty welcome.
Thanks a lot in advance.
Are you Japanese/speak Japanese? If not, Tokyo is impossible, but you could try the Japanese banks outside of Japan.
For London, FT is even more limited than SA, and nothing in your profile really puts you in an ideal position. Have you considered a masters in finance?
Loads of posts on the London recruiting process/tips, but ultimately the biggest hurdle is getting past HR/the randomness for a first round.
Thanks for the advice. Unfortunately don’t know Japanese and def not Japanese.
Im not really considering a masters yet but definitely after getting some work experience.
Seems to me from ur advice that I’m severely cooked.
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