Getting an online investment banking internship can be challenging but is very rewarding. With the rise of remote work, many top investment banks now offer virtual internship programs. Here are some tips to help you land a coveted online investment banking internship position: Start your search early, as many programs recruit a year in advance. Thoroughly research firms and roles of interest. Customize your resume and cover letter for each application. Network online via LinkedIn and alumni databases to make connections. Practice for assessments and interviews to showcase your skills. Highlight your interest in finance and relevant coursework. Emphasize transferable skills like teamwork, analysis, and communication. Be prepared to explain why you want a remote over in-person role. With preparation and persistence, you can get an online investment banking internship to gain experience and break into the industry.
Research investment banking firms and roles for online internships
Do your research on investment banks that offer virtual internships. Large banks like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, Citi and UBS have programs you can do remotely. Search their websites and set up job alerts. Reach out to campus career centers for insider tips. Identify 1-2 roles like investment banking, sales & trading, research that interest you. Study the requirements and responsibilities. Show your enthusiasm by knowing the firm’s business, clients and deals. Relate your skills to the day-to-day work.
Start early and prepare thoroughly for the online application
Online investment banking internships are very competitive, so start searching early. Applications often open 1-2 years in advance of the internship period. Once posted, submit yours ASAP before spots fill up. Firms review on a rolling basis. Expect multiple rounds including online tests, video interviews, assessments days. Use the job description to customize your resume and cover letter. Highlight coursework, finance skills and deal with examples. Brush up on accounting, financial modeling, valuation, Excel, PowerPoint and financial news.
Network online to connect with investment banking professionals
Online networking is key for a remote internship. Join LinkedIn groups and connect with alumni at your target firms. Utilize your school’s alumni database. Comment on posts to share insights. Ask for informational interviews to learn about different roles and teams. Build relationships over time by providing value. This will help when recruiting season comes. At info sessions and coffee chats, get professionals’ advice on how to break in.
Prepare thoroughly for assessments and interviews
Once your application is accepted, you’ll go through assessments and interviews to evaluate your skills, fit and motivation. Practice numerical, logical and verbal reasoning tests under timed conditions. Use resources from your career center. Expect behavioral and technical questions. Prepare stories using the STAR method. Research common questions and practice your answers. Schedule mock interviews to refine your answers and work on delivery. Show your interest in finance and personalize your pitch.
Emphasize transferable skills and interest in finance
While finance experience is great, many applicants come from non-business backgrounds. Tailor your application to highlight transferable skills. Emphasize analytical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, communication, leadership and resilience. Use class projects, clubs and jobs to demonstrate these abilities. Showcase finance interest through courses, books, competitions, games and news. At interviews, explain why you want to break into investment banking and the path that led you there.
Getting an online investment banking internship requires early preparation, thorough research, customized applications and online networking. By starting your search early, thoroughly preparing for tests and interviews, connecting with professionals, and highlighting your skills and passion, you can land a remote internship opportunity at a top firm to launch your finance career.