University Options (saftey/int)
Hi all,
I’m trying to figure out how much university rankings (target, semit-target) matter for breaking into investment banking, especially if I plan to work internationally.
Here’s my situation: I’m thinking of applying to UCL, Bristol, and Bath with predicted grades of A*AA in Design Technology, Maths, and Physics. I’m studying in the UK, but my long-term goal is to work in the UAE or a similar international market.
A few questions:
- I know target schools matter for IB recruitment in London, but does that carry over when applying in regions like the UAE, or would attending a highly ranked university but not necessarily target, e.g., Leeds or Manchester, be sufficient for my remaining slots?
- Which universities would you recommend as safeteis with entry requirements around AAB-ABB to ensure I have solid backup options?
Any advice or experiences would be really helpful,
Thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know:
Target Schools and International Markets (UAE): While target schools like UCL, LSE, and Oxbridge are highly regarded for IB recruitment in London, their prestige does carry weight internationally, including in markets like the UAE. However, the UAE market is less rigid about UK target schools compared to London. Universities like Leeds or Manchester, while not top-tier targets, are still well-regarded and could suffice, especially if you build a strong profile with internships, extracurriculars, and networking.
Safety Options (AAB-ABB): For solid backup options, consider universities within the Russell Group that have slightly lower entry requirements but are still respected. Examples include:
These schools are considered Tier 2 or semi-targets and can still provide opportunities for IB recruitment, especially if you excel academically and leverage internships.
Good luck with your applications!
Sources: Investment Banking University Recruiting Report – 7 Key Takeaways, Investment Banking University Recruiting Report – 7 Key Takeaways, Intro to Investment Banking, Help me choose the right university for Investment Banking, UK Target Universities Discussion Thread
Just apply to the best universities you can, look at the UK target list on this forum.
I wouldn't be too fixated on the international aspect upfront - opportunities for this will come relatively easily over time assuming that you make it into the industry (particularly Middle East). That said, I don't think that the university decision matters for UK versus international recruiting anyway - target schools absolutely matter both at home and abroad. Another user has noted this, but just apply for the best universities at which you think you have a good opportunity of getting in and which you think you'll enjoy.
University choice is a very important variable for entering the industry (as well as your actions while you're there), so do try to get into a target (Oxbridge, LSE, UCL, ICL) or good semi-target (Warwick, Durham, etc.) I'm less in touch with the target / semi-target lists, but you can search for these on the WSO forum - plenty of threads about this. Good luck!
Do note that warwick is a target as well. However its reputation and prestige is a bit weaker in overseas.
what courses were you planning on applying to?
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