Thinking about a highly powered career in finance? How to Become an investment banker is one of the most prestigious and demanding paths in the financial world. With the right arrangement of education, skills and strategy you can land a role in this fast paced industry.
In this guide we will break down how to become an investment banker what you will need to achieve and the steps you can take even if you are starting from scratch.
What Does an Investment Banker Do?
Before we dive in lets clarify the role. Investment bankers help companies raise capital manage mergers and acquisitions and provide strategic financial advice. They typically work at:
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| Types of Investment Banks |
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Its a high pressure high reward job with long hours and a steep learning curve.
Step 1: Get the Right Education
Most investment bankers start with a bachelors degree in:
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Business
- Mathematics
Attending a target school (like Wharton, NYU Stern, or LSE) can significantly boost your chances but its not mandatory. Success is possible from a non target school if you work harder on networking and internships.
Step 2: Build Investment Banking Skills
| Core Skills Needed for Investment Banking |
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Many candidates improve these skills through online courses, bootcamps or certifications like:
- Wall Street Prep
- Breaking Into Wall Street
- Corporate Finance Institute (CFI)
Step 3: Secure the Right Internships
Getting an internship is crucial to breaking into investment banking. Summer Analyst programs at major firms often lead directly to full time offers.
Tips:
- Apply early (6–12 months in advance)
- Tailor your resume with finance related experience
- Ace both technical and behavioral interviews
- Network with alumni and professionals
If you can not land an investment banking internship immediately try related areas:
- Corporate finance
- Big 4 accounting firms
- Private equity or consulting internships
Step 4: Master the Interview Process
Investment banking interviews are intense. Expect:
- Technical questions (valuation methods, DCF, LBO models)
- Behavioral questions (teamwork, leadership, handling pressure)
- Why investment banking? be crystal clear on this
Practice using guides like:
- Mergers & Inquisitions Interview Prep
- 400 Questions Guide (WSP)
Mock interviews help a lot especially for those from non target schools.
Step 5: Land a Full Time Offer
Once you have completed a summer internship firms may offer a full time role as an Investment Banking Analyst. From there you will build a career that could lead to:
- Associate (often post-MBA)
- Vice President (VP)
- Director or Managing Director
Expect long hours (80 to 100 per week) but also high salaries and fast career growth.
Bonus: Alternative Routes into Investment Banking
Did not get in right after undergrad? Do not worry here are a few paths:
- Get an MBA from a top program (often leads to Associate roles)
- Work in corporate finance or consulting and lateral in
- Gain a CFA certification to prove technical competence
FAQs
Q: Do I need an MBA to become an investment banker?
A: Not for entry level Analyst roles but MBAs are common for mid career transitions and promotions.
Q: Is CFA helpful for investment banking?
A: Yes especially for those without finance backgrounds. It builds credibility and sharpens technical knowledge.
Q: Can I become an investment banker without a finance degree?
A: Yes but you will need to demonstrate skills through certifications, internships or networking.
Conclusion
Becoming an investment banker takes dedication, preparation and strategic planning but its absolutely achievable. Start with the right education build technical skills get relevant internships and nail the interview process.