Leaving Graduate Scheme during probation for another offer

Currently completing a graduate scheme in IBD coverage at a large bank. The probation period is 6 months and the scheme is a contract for ~ 2 years. 

I've recently received an offer that would result in me leaving slightly over 4 months into the graduate scheme. It's also worth mentioning the offer is for a firm where I feel I am a much better fit, and where I can follow my interests (chance to choose my coverage). 

My question is basically is this something I really shouldn't be doing, and why? Or is it fairly reasonable to leave after the 4 month mark for something I deem as a better fit?

Thanks in advance, all. 

6 Comments
 
Most Helpful

You should make the move.

The risks are (1) it makes your CV a bit more messy, and (2) it disrupts the relationship with your current employer.

On (1), this is manageable, but I'd try to stay at your new firm for a good amount of time. At least 2 years but more ideally. You don't want to be seen as a mercenary or permanent flight risk. At the junior level though, this industry is known for frequent moves, so it'll be forgiveable (especially if it makes sense optically for most people).

On (2), really try to leave on good terms with your existing employer. I mean it's the right thing to do but practically you never know where people end up or how your future will change. Work hard in the time before you leave, maybe make some nice gestures like cleaning up a comps file or something lasting that will benefit the firm.

But if this is the right decision for you (and it sounds like it is), you should go for it.

 

I did this, just two things to note.

You will pay back any signing bonus and have pretty much 0 notice period. So you can start next day if you wanted to.

 

That’s not a problem at all!

I have done the exact same thing, although I left after only 2 months. I don’t even mention on my CV / LinkedIn my very short stint at this company.

I left for a fund where I felt I would thrive and had a better fit with the team. I don’t regret it at all.

Think about yourself, if you want this job, then no need to think twice.

 

Laudantium quibusdam consequatur beatae. Ut molestiae unde corporis sit amet. Et quisquam sequi velit aut perspiciatis.

Tempore quaerat natus in dignissimos maxime recusandae qui sed. Sit ratione sunt vero repudiandae voluptate. Amet rerum provident minus quis optio. A maiores odit quia voluptatum quia porro. Esse sit facilis quia cupiditate minus rerum fugiat tempora.

Career Advancement Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Guggenheim Partners 02 97.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 97.4%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 99.0%
  • Evercore 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.9%
  • BMO Capital Markets 13 97.4%

Professional Growth Opportunities

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 99.0%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.9%
  • JPMorgan No 97.4%

Total Avg Compensation

November 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (57) $264
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (29) $183
  • Intern/Summer Associate (16) $161
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (77) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
3
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
8
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
9
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”