A degree from a top university is a big advantage in investment banking, especially at bulge bracket banks in the US or London. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get a job at an investment bank even if you go to a school which isn’t a targeted school or even semi-target. It’s just more work and a more extensive network to be able to find a job.
The most important factor is whether your school is an “target.” These are schools that regularly send a significant number of investment bankers to the largest firms. Banks choose these schools because they know that their students possess the appropriate skills and fit within their culture.
Harvard, MIT Wharton, Columbia Chicago Booth, Kellogg Northwestern Darden UVA and Fuqua Duke are all on the list. Other prestigious schools like Imperial College London and New York City’s Baruch College also make the list. In terms of their curriculum the finance courses at many of these schools are known for their analytical rigor and practical applications, helping to prepare students for careers in investment banking. These schools offer a range of educational and networking events for students who are interested in the field.
Apart from attending a specific school, you can also increase your chances of success by taking part in extracurricular activities that deal with investment banking. You can accomplish this by attending seminars in investment banking as well as joining finance clubs or coops, or internship in finance during your sophomore year. It is recommended to include two or more leadership experience on your resume prior to when the recruiting season starts in your junior year.