lilahozi

On most (if not all) of the online IBD applications, it asks for you to upload your unofficial transcript (optional). I'm wondering if the recruiters ever take a look at the uploaded transcript.

I am currently a sophomore and my current cumulative GPA hovers around a 3.5. My GPA started out in freshman year at around a 3.1. However, ever since then it has steadily rose up, and hit approximately a 3.8 last quarter. The difficulty of the classes I've taken has also increased, all concentrated within my area of study, so it's not like I'm taking a bunch of useless classes to boost my GPA up.

Since 3.5 is borderline for many IBD internships, I'm wondering if recruiters will ever look at the transcript closely. If they do, it may work in my favor since they'll see a drastic improvement. If not, then a 3.5 may work against me, and I'll have to pull it up some more.

Anyone has advice/insight/opinions?

ixjunitxi

Yes they all will, that is why they ask for it. However, what they aren't going to do is analyze every semester you have taken. When a bank does this they want to verify GPA and look at rigor of course load/ see that you have taken courses in finance to prepare yourself

Awped

I'm pretty sure you won't have much luck applying for IBD internship on company websites as a sophomore...and no I doubt they look at your grades that closely

lilahozi

@awped: I'm targeting the sophomore-specific applications.

C-Revs

Are you an URM?

lilahozi

Minority? Yes.

Underrepresented? No.

C-Revs

You're going to have trouble, but can't hurt to get interview practice.

ixjunitxi

C-Revs really has very little idea what he is talking about. I dont even know what your ethnicity has to do with anything. I dont know what school you go to, but a 3.5 will enable you to get a majority of interviews assuming you have decent work experience and good leadership activities...after that its all about how well you interview. Make sure you are prepared for the technicals and have your story (why banking.why specific bank) down well.

Awped

^OP is a sophomore so a 3.5 will not be getting him "a majority of interviews" at BBs. Also, sophomore programs are much more competitive than regular SA recruitment, especially if you're an overrepresented minority (Asian?)

C-Revs

Lol say what you want but I know what I'm talking about. If you worked at a bank at any point during your career you'd understand why I ask the question, particularly to a Sophomore. You may get interviews, but to get beyond that stage is very very difficult... honestly. But if you get interviews and not the job its not a huge deal. That you get interviews as a Soph to begin with is a good sign, and you will have a better understanding of what to expect.

hmom5

Sure, they take a hard look. Very interested in the courses you've taken and shows strengths and weaknesses.