2021 UK undergrad, no BB/EB summer, thoughts on SA/grad applications 2021?

Undergrad student in the UK at a top 10 uni but still non-target imo (think Bristol, Durham, Loughborough, Bath)

Missed out on 2020 SA opportunities due to current internship (Research in Global Markets running (Aug 19- Aug2020).

Anyone have thoughts on 2021 recruitment cycle for front office IB - M&A, or generalist role? - Do I go for SA position or apply FT grad at BB/EB?

Not planning to take a masters due to funding ...

Anyone have thoughts on chances / tips? Previous spring intern at a BB.

3 Comments
 
Most Helpful

Was in a similar position to you, decided just to apply for summers again and it paid off (very hard to get into IB FT without SA. A lot of the EBs and some BBs (barclays off the top of my head) open their internships for finalists as well.

For the places that don't, I just said I was planning on doing a masters, and if I got an offer I'd have just made an excuse as to why I can't do it (funding, family etc). The vibe I got from most places was that they really don't mind as long as they like you and are happy for you to take a year out and travel etc which is what I'm doing now.

Just make sure you build your story appropriately (i.e why you're moving from research into IB) and you'll be a very competitive candidate - best of luck

 

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