When to start preparing for IB summer internships

You should start preparing for investment banking summer internships now, during your 2nd year. Applications for the following summer (after your 3rd year) typically open between November and January, and many top firms recruit on a rolling basis, meaning early applicants have a clear advantage. Some roles fill by February or March, so waiting can limit your options.

Begin building your technical foundation in accounting, valuation, and financial modeling. At the same time, refine your resume to highlight analytical, leadership, and finance-related experience. Start networking with alumni and current analysts, and get involved in finance clubs or competitions to boost your profile. Interview prep—especially for technical and behavioral questions—should also start now. Early and consistent preparation is key.

Hey,
you’re asking at exactly the right time. Second year is when most people start preparing seriously.

How early to start can depend a bit on your style. Personally, I always recommend getting familiar with the process early and giving yourself time to prepare your CV, learn the basics, and practice interviews at a steady pace. It takes a lot of pressure off later.

That said, some people work best under time pressure and still get great results. The key is knowing what works for you and making sure you don’t miss early deadlines, especially for London or NY roles where apps open super early.

Rita

Hey There,

Starting early is definitely an advantage, especially for competitive IB summer internships. Since you’re in your second year, now is a great time to begin building a strong foundation. This means not only brushing up on technical skills like financial modeling and accounting but also gaining a solid understanding of the industry and the firms you want to target.

It’s also important to work on your networking—connecting with alumni, attending career fairs, and reaching out to professionals can make a big difference later. By preparing your CV, practicing interview questions, and staying updated on market trends well before applications open, you’ll put yourself in a much stronger position to succeed when the time comes.

Hey There!

It’s smart to start preparing now, especially if you’re aiming for investment banking roles at top firms. Most summer internship applications open around a year in advance, and many positions fill on a rolling basis. That means having your resume polished, cover letter ready, and technical prep underway by the start of your second year puts you in a strong position to apply early.

Beyond applications, now is the time to begin networking. Reach out to current analysts or alumni, attend virtual info sessions, and get a sense of what different banks are looking for. Start reviewing technical concepts like valuation, accounting, and financial modeling, even at a basic level: so you're comfortable in interviews. Preparing early not only gives you more confidence but also signals genuine interest and discipline to recruiters.