Could a Series 79 certification help get into IB?

Fellow WSOers,

I am a junior undergrad at a non-target college trying to get into IB. I have the ability to be sponsored by a small FA shop for any exam I want to take. Would having a Series 79 under my belt help me get into IB quicker than peers, or would it be a waste of time and money?

Thanks guys.

10 Comments
 
Best Response

I agree with the prior comments. You'll be hired on your merits rather than certifications. All analysts have to be trained and pass the necessary certifications, so they won't add value to your certification.

I would spend the time either networking, or studying for the GMAT or CFA if you're in any way interested in business school or Asset Management.

--Death, lighter than a feather; duty, heavier than a mountain
 

Yes, it is a FINRA law, so you are not permitted to be a "registered representative" (banker) without passing. Having said that, not all banks are subject to these laws; I think if you are at a pure play M&A shop then you don't have to take the exam. It's something about issuing/selling securities (equity translations). Someone correct me if I'm wrong on that...

Regardless, the test is very easy and you're prepared by the bank.

But yes, you are given 2 chances to pass, if you fail both, you're fired.

 

Mollitia tempora suscipit eum suscipit. Accusamus et quia non libero tempore itaque. Cum sunt non in dolor et sint.

Nemo fugit harum dolorem doloribus commodi molestiae quis rerum. Quia illo recusandae optio aut. Reprehenderit in quis nemo consequatur rerum.

Sint qui dicta delectus error odit. Est exercitationem quis ea dicta. Dolores unde at nam aliquid amet amet vitae. Maiores quo sunt minima nobis quaerat. Quia quasi corporis quidem qui repellat ut. Esse adipisci dolorem veniam distinctio tenetur expedita vel.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 02 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.3%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.7%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.3%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (44) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (78) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (72) $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
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
5
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
6
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
7
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
8
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
9
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
10
Linda Abraham's picture
Linda Abraham
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...”