Starting a career in IB at 25.
Dear WSO community,
Im facing a issue I would need advice with. As I did not get in at my desired MSc choice, I am considering taking another gap year for this.
As I want to work in London, coming from a small CEE country means that my only way through is with a target MSc in Finance. The issue is that I am already in my gap year and this would mean taking another. Bare in mind that I am not sitting around I am working in this time frame.
What would you recommend ? Is it too late to be an analyst in a bank at 25? Or am I exaggerating?
Thanks
Starting a career in investment banking at 25 is not too late, and you're likely exaggerating the concern. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and advice:
Age Concerns Are Overblown: Many individuals start their IB careers later than the traditional path. For example, in one WSO thread, a 32-year-old started as an analyst after completing an MBA. Another user highlighted that career pivots in your mid-to-late 20s are not uncommon, especially if you bring valuable experience or a strong academic background.
Target MSc in Finance: If a target MSc in Finance is your best route to breaking into London IB, taking another gap year to secure admission could be a worthwhile investment. Top MSc programs are highly regarded by banks and can significantly improve your chances of landing a role.
Leverage Your Gap Year: Since you're working during your gap year, ensure that your experience is relevant or adds value to your profile. Highlight transferable skills like financial modeling, analytical thinking, or teamwork in your applications.
Networking Is Key: Use this time to build connections. Reach out to alumni from your target MSc programs, attend industry events, and aim for informational interviews. Networking can help you stand out when applying for roles.
Focus on the Long-Term Goal: While starting at 25 might feel late compared to peers, the long-term trajectory of your career matters more. If you secure a strong foundation in IB, your age will become irrelevant as you progress.
In summary, taking another gap year for a target MSc in Finance is a strategic move if it significantly enhances your chances of breaking into London IB. Age is not a barrier as long as you demonstrate commitment, relevant skills, and a clear career trajectory.
Sources: 34 year old day trader to investment banker, Life after Investment Banking, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/private-equity/going-from-mm-investment-bank-to-mega-fund?customgpt=1, Pro ball to Pro Analyst, Starting as IB analyst at age 27
Definitely not. You may be a “little behind” but 1) in the grand scheme of things, IB is a fantastic career starter and it doesn’t matter remotely if u start at 25 or not 2) many other demanding roles (Big Law, Medicine, Etc) all begin even later then that with sometimes more demanding schedules. Making 200K at 25 is phenomenal and if u stick it out to Associate ur clearing 300K-400K at 28-29, which firmly puts you in the 99th percentile for your age.
At a BB in London and quite a lot of the new analysts (usually European) are 24/25/26. You’re fine
No I wouldn’t say so by 29-30 you’re pretty much you’ll be clearing a lot more than you would have otherwise in a traditional big 4 or corporate finance firm. So in the long term no.
I think the most important thing is to never let your age affect your ego or sense of progression. Back when I was an analyst, we had a guy who joined in his 30's (as an analyst) and man he was hungry. Obviously, the older you get, the more your personal life starts to conflict with your career, but 25 is perfectly fine and normal, especially in Europe.
I was a 26 year old An1..dont worry
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