London Applying Early

I know applying early helps, but how early are we exactly expected to apply?

I've heard there are literally 100s of people that wait for applications to go live and apply within the hour, which is fucking crazy to me.

I thought you could apply within the first week or two but given what so many other people are doing it might be too late?

What do you recommend for internships apps? Obvs the earlier the better but is it really necessary to apply same day? 

8 Comments
 

Just apply as early as possible. Nobody cares if you apply on day 1 or day 10 - but as applications are rolling if you apply on the day of the deadline, you've fucked it.

Also remember it pretty much all goes in to a computer and churned for keywords etc before making it in to the hands of a human being anyway and that computer won't differentiate on something like time stamp of application.

 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about applying early for internships in London:

  1. Timing of Application:

    • Rolling Basis: For applications on a rolling basis, the earlier you apply, the better. There are often "mini deadlines" within the rolling process. For example, if the application opens on June 1st, there might be a first review deadline on June 15th, and subsequent ones every two weeks. Applying early increases your chances of being reviewed in the initial cycles.
    • Deadline Basis: If the application has a set deadline, you should still aim to apply early. Some recruiters start reviewing applications before the official deadline to manage their workload. Being an early applicant can help you get noticed sooner and potentially start the interview process earlier.
  2. Strength of Application:

    • It's crucial to balance the timing of your application with the strength of your resume. If waiting a few days will significantly improve your resume (e.g., adding a new internship or relevant experience), it might be worth the wait. However, don't delay too long, especially for rolling applications.
  3. Application Strategy:

    • Non-Target Schools: If you're from a non-target school or lack significant finance experience, applying as soon as the application opens can be more critical. This is because the competition is fierce, and early applications can demonstrate your eagerness and commitment.
    • Target Schools: If you have a strong background and relevant experience, you might have a bit more flexibility, but applying within the first week or two is still advisable.
  4. General Advice:

    • Early Applications: While it might seem extreme to apply within the hour of the application opening, being among the first to apply can give you an edge. However, ensure your application is polished and complete.
    • Confidence: Applying early can also signal confidence to recruiters, which is a positive trait.

In summary, for internship applications in London, aim to apply as early as possible, ideally within the first few days of the application opening. Ensure your resume is strong, but don't delay too long, especially for rolling applications.

Sources: 2018 Full-Time IB Recruiting Timeline Megathread Page, 2018 Full-Time IB Recruiting Timeline Megathread Page, Consulting Recruiting 2023, Dear College Students..., London SA 2021 Spreadsheet

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

During a spring insight one of the HR ladies at Goldman told us to apply for summer internships on day 1 because they get thousands on that first day. So for big firms I’d say apply the same day simply because your competition is also applying the same day but as you go down the ranks you have more leeway I think.

Had a call on the day Goldman opened and the amount of people who said they had already applied before 10am baffled me so yeah that’s the situation

 

chocoicecream2582

In my exp within 7-10 days of opening has been completely fine

Seconding this - as long as you apply well BEFORE the given deadline, you are good. Please please please do not apply a day before the given deadline as deadlines are rolling and that means once places are gone, they're gone! Think of it like a ticketing system for a concert. Apply early and don't miss out. 7 to 10 days is reasonably good but the earlier, the better. In past years, I've applied to places that opened on July 7 and received first round interviews October 17th (this experience may vary). 

 

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