Investment banking sounds fancy. High salaries, big deals, and a fast-paced lifestyle. But how does a BCom graduate get there? Is a degree enough, or do you need extra skills?
If you’re wondering how to break into investment banking jobs, this guide will walk you through everything, skills, certifications, internships, and real strategies to land a role.
But first, if you're serious about a career in finance, check out these investment banking courses designed to give you hands-on training and industry exposure.
Can a BCom Graduate Get into Investment Banking?
Yes, but it’s not easy. Unlike MBA grads from top-tier B-schools, BCom graduates don’t get direct placements in investment banks. However, it’s possible if you:
- Gain finance-specific skills
- Get an investment banking internship
- Earn relevant certifications
- Network aggressively
With the right approach, even a BCom graduate can land a solid role in investment banking.
What Does an Investment Banker Do?
Before jumping in, let’s break down what investment banking really involves.
Key responsibilities of an investment banker:
- Advising companies on mergers and acquisitions (M&A)
- Raising capital through IPO and bond issuances
- Performing financial modelling and valuation
- Managing risk and investment portfolios
Common Investment Banking Job Roles
| Job Role | Key Responsibilities |
| Analyst | Research, valuation models, preparing presentations |
| Associate | Client interactions, financial analysis, deal execution |
| Vice President (VP) | Leading teams, high-level deal structuring |
Most BCom graduates start as analysts, which is an entry-level role.
Investment Banking Jobs After BCom
Not every investment banking role requires an MBA. BCom graduates can get into these areas:
Equity Research Analyst
- Analysing stocks, preparing reports, predicting trends
- Requires strong financial analysis skills
Financial Analyst
- Budgeting, forecasting, and investment risk analysis
- Works closely with investment banking teams
Operations Analyst
- Handling trade settlements, compliance, and back-office tasks
- Entry-level but provides banking exposure
Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Analyst
- Assisting in company buyouts, due diligence, and valuations
- Requires investment banking certification for better chances
Each role has different requirements, but all need strong finance and analytical skills.
Skills You Need for a Career in Investment Banking
A BCom degree gives you the basics, but a career in investment banking requires specific skills.
Must-Have Skills:
- Financial Modelling and Valuation (DCF, LBO, M&A models)
- Excel and PowerPoint Proficiency
- Accounting and Financial Statements Analysis
- Investment Banking Terminology
- Presentation and Communication Skills
Technical vs Soft Skills in Investment Banking
| Technical Skills | Soft Skills |
| Financial modelling | Problem-solving |
| Valuation techniques | Communication |
| Market research | Time management |
| MS Excel and PowerPoint | Attention to detail |
Tip: Learning financial modelling and Excel tricks can give you an edge over competitors.
Do You Need an Investment Banking Internship?
Short answer: Yes! Investment banking internships open doors to full-time jobs.
How to Get an Internship?
- Apply at global banks (J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley)
- Look for roles in boutique investment firms and private equity firms
- Use LinkedIn and networking to find hidden opportunities
An internship helps you build a network, gain real experience, and improve your resume.
Certifications That Can Boost Your Career
BCom alone isn’t enough. Certifications help you stand out from other candidates.
Best Certifications for Investment Banking Jobs
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst): Best for deep finance knowledge
- Financial Modelling and Valuation Courses: Essential for analysts
- Certified Investment Banking Operations Professional (CIBOP): Covers banking operations
Getting certified gives you an edge and increases your job chances.
Best Investment Banking Courses
Want a structured way to learn investment banking? A proper course helps you:
- Learn financial modelling and valuation
- Understand mergers and acquisitions
- Gain hands-on training with case studies
Check out this Certified Investment Banking Operations Program, it’s designed specifically for those who want to break into investment banking.
Resume and Interview Tips for Investment Banking Jobs
Your resume and interview play a huge role in getting hired.
How to Build a Strong Resume?
- Highlight finance-related projects and coursework
- Mention internships and financial modelling skills
- Use numbers and achievements (e.g., Analysed 10+ company reports)
- Keep it short and well-structured
Investment Banking Resume Guide
Interview Questions You Might Face
- Why investment banking?
- Walk me through a DCF valuation.
- Explain a recent M&A deal you followed.
- What makes you a good fit for this role?
Practising these questions helps you prepare for real interviews.
Where to Apply for Investment Banking Jobs?
Once you're ready, it’s time to apply!
Best Places to Find Jobs
- Company Websites (J.P. Morgan, Goldman Sachs, Citi)
- LinkedIn and Naukri.com
- Finance-Specific Job Portals (eFinancialCareers, Wall Street Oasis)
Top Investment Banking Firms to Work For
Applying strategically increases your chances of getting hired.
Final Thoughts
Breaking into investment banking jobs after BCom takes effort. You need the right skills, internships, certifications, and networking strategies.
If you want structured learning, check out this Certified Investment Banking Operations Program to fast-track your career.
With hard work and the right strategy, landing a role in investment banking is absolutely possible.
FAQs
- Can a BCom graduate get an investment banking job?
Yes! But you need financial modelling skills, certifications, and an internship for a better chance.
- What is the best job after BCom in investment banking?
Common roles include Financial Analyst, Equity Research Analyst, and M&A Analyst.
- Do I need an MBA for investment banking?
No, but an MBA or CFA helps in career growth. Many enter the field through internships and courses.
- Which investment banking firms hire BCom graduates?
Firms like Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, and Citi hire entry-level analysts.
- How much do investment bankers earn?
Entry-level salaries in India range from ₹6-12 LPA, while senior roles earn much higher.
- What is the best investment banking certification?
CFA, CIBOP, and financial modelling courses help boost your career prospects.
- Is investment banking hard to get into?
Yes, but with the right skills, networking, and preparation, you can land a job.
