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How to Become an Investment Banker after 12th: Career Guide, Courses, Eligibility, Top Colleges, Salary

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Ahana Bhaduri

Content Writer

The job of an investment banker is one of the most sought-after jobs in our country in terms of future security or a higher salary package, this job covers it all. When it comes to becoming an investment banker there is no specific education qualification required, but a bachelor's degree in Finance or any other related field, such as economics is greatly valued. Candidates who are deeply interested in this field also tend to do an MBA in Finance or a Masters's in Finance to achieve a higher skill set. In short, any finance-related degree can help one get ahead in becoming an Investment banker.

Becoming an Investment Banker is not an easy task as it looks. In fact it is a challenging task. It is a high-pressure job that requires excellence in mathematical and financial concepts and a lot of working hours are demanded to achieve the required goal. But the hard work pays off well as it is a really high-paying job and if one is experienced and has got the skill set, then the Salary of an Investment Banker can go up to a whopping INR 85 LPA and above. Read: Investment Banker Jobs

Table of Contents

  1. How to Become an Investment Banker after 12th: Quick Facts
  2. Eligibility to Become an Investment Banker after 12th 
  3. Steps to Become an Investment Banker after 12th 
  4. Courses to Become an Investment Banker after 12th
    4.1 Entrance Exams
  5. Top Investment Banking Colleges
  6. Skills Required to Become an Investment Banker after 12th 
  7. Benefits of Becoming an Investment Banker after 12th 
  8. Salary of an Investment Banker
  9. How to Become an Investment Banker after 12th: FAQs

How to Become an Investment Banker after 12th: Quick Facts

Eligibility Criteria

Educational Qualification: Completion of 12th grade or equivalent examination in any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts).

Entrance Exams: Qualify for entrance exams conducted by top colleges or universities offering undergraduate programs in finance or related fields
Skills Required Strong Analytical Skills Excellent Numerical Skills Communication and Presentation Skills Problem-solving Abilities Attention to Detail
Starting Salary (INR) 4 LPA - 7 LPA
Average Salary (INR) 15 LPA & above
Highest Salary (INR) 40 LPA & above

Eligibility to Become an Investment Banker after 12th 

The basic eligibility criteria required to become an Investment Banker after 12th are listed below for your reference.

  • Candidates aspiring to become an investment banker must complete 12th board exams with a minimum aggregate score of 50% or CGPA
  • A bachelor's and masters degree in finance can really help in pursuing a career of an investment banker. So a lot of candidates look forward to it
  • Candidates should have strong mathematical skills and a passion towards the finance industry to achieve a good career in investment banking
  • For admissions in some colleges, the candidate is also required to clear the entrance exams such as the Common Admission Test (CAT), the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), or other specific entrance exams

Steps to Become an Investment Banker after 12th 

Candidates aspiring to become Investment Bankers can follow the steps discussed below for your reference.

  • Candidates should clear class 12th with mandatory subjects such as Economics, Commerce and Maths.
  • They should then pursue a bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related field from a reputed college or university.
  • Gain practical experience through internships or part-time jobs in the finance industry.
  • If possible and attainable, they should try pursuing a Masters's degree in finance or doing an MBA in finance.
  • Start building a network with people who have great finance industry knowledge and can help you enhance your career.
  • Apply for entry-level positions in investment banking firms and gradually work their way up the career ladder.

Courses to Become an Investment Banker after 12th 

There are numerous courses that one can do that can lead him to become an investment banker. These courses are undergraduate programmes, postgraduate programmes and professional certifications. There are various courses that attract a lot of individuals and lean towards. Some of them are Bachelor of business administration, (BBA) in Finance, Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) in Finance, Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program, and Financial Risk Manager (FRM) program.

Parameters Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance
Duration 3 years 2-3 years 2 years
Eligibility Criteria Completion of 10+2 or equivalent Completion of 10+2 or equivalent Completion of bachelor's degree
Top Colleges NMIMS Mumbai - IIM Bangalore, FMS Delhi
Entrance Exams SET, NPAT CFA Level Exams CAT, XAT, CMAT, GMAT, MAT
Average Course Fees (INR) 4,00,000 - 6,00,000 2,00,000 - 3,00,000 10,00,000 - 25,00,000
Average Salary (INR) 5 LPA - 10 LPA 8 LPA - 15 LPA 12 LPA - 30 LPA

Entrance Exams

There are various entrance exams that are required to get admission to a college that provide financial-related courses. The most popular courses are CAT, GMAT, XAT,etc. These exams are intended to test the candidate’s quantitative ability, logical reasoning, verbal ability, and data interpretation. Below is the table of the entrance exams for Investment Banking:

Name of the Exams Application Deadlines Exam Dates
CAT  September 2024 November 2024
XAT  July 15 – November 30, 2024 January 7, 2024
CMAT  2nd week of February – 2nd week of March 2024 1st week of May 2024
MAT  4th week of March – 1st week of May 2024 3rd week of May 2024
NMAT  August 1 – October 10, 2024 December 19, 2024

Top Investment Banking Colleges

Some of the top colleges in India that offer excellent finance and investment banking programs include:

Name of the Colleges Location Average Fees
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad Ahmedabad, Gujarat INR 23,00,000 - 25,00,000
Indian School of Business (ISB) Hyderabad, Telangana INR 34,63,000
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore Bangalore, Karnataka INR 21,00,000 - 23,00,000
Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) New Delhi INR 10,480 (per semester)
Xavier School of Management (XLRI) Jamshedpur, Jharkhand INR 25,00,000 - 27,00,000
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta Kolkata, West Bengal INR 27,00,000 - 28,00,000
Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh INR 19,25,000 - 21,00,000
Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) New Delhi INR 16,25,000 - 18,75,000
Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) Mumbai, Maharashtra INR 14,50,000
S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research Mumbai, Maharashtra INR 17,50,000

Skills Required to Become an Investment Banker After 12th 

To excel in the field of investment banking, aspiring professionals need to develop a set of essential skills, including,

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities Excellent financial and quantitative skills Proficiency in data analysis and financial modelling
Effective communication and presentation skills Attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure Good interpersonal and teamwork skills
Knowledge of financial markets, regulations, and economic trends Adaptability and willingness to learn and update knowledge in a dynamic industry

Benefits of Becoming an Investment Banker after 12th 

Pursuing a career in investment banking offers several advantages, such as:

  • Lucrative salary packages and attractive financial incentives
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement in prestigious organisations
  • Exposure to diverse financial transactions and challenging projects
  • Networking opportunities with industry professionals and global financial institutions
  • Enhancing financial knowledge and understanding of market dynamics
  • Contributing to important financial decisions and shaping the economy
  • International job prospects and opportunities for global mobility

Investment Banker Salary

The salary of an investment banker can vary based on factors such as experience, job role, location, and the employing firm. Entry-level positions may have a lower salary range, while senior-level positions and top-tier investment banks offer substantial compensation packages. On average, investment bankers in India can expect to earn salaries ranging from INR 4 LPA - 7 LPA at the initial stages, and with experience, the salary can significantly increase.

Designations Average Annual Salary (INR)
0 - 1 year 4 LPA - 7 LPA
2 - 5 years 7 LPA - 20 LPA
6 - 10 years 20 LPA - 30 LPA
10 - 15 years 30 LPA - 40 LPA
15 - 20 years 40 LPA - 50 LPA
20 years and above 60 LPA

How to Become an Investment Banker after 12th: FAQ’s

Ques: Can international experience or language proficiency be beneficial in investment banking?

Ans: International experience and language proficiency can be advantageous in investment banking, especially in a globalised business environment. Knowledge of different markets, cultures, and languages can open doors to international deals and client opportunities.

Ques: Are there any specific skills related to financial software or tools that are valuable in investment banking?

Ans: Proficiency in financial software and tools such as Excel, Bloomberg Terminal, PowerPoint, financial modelling software, and data analysis tools can significantly enhance your value as an investment banking professional.

Ques: Can I start my own investment banking firm after gaining experience?

Ans: Starting your own investment banking firm requires extensive experience, industry knowledge, network, and financial resources.

Ques: How important is continuing professional development in investment banking?

Ans: Continuing professional development is vital in investment banking to stay updated with industry trends, regulatory changes, and new financial tools and techniques.

Ques: Is it mandatory to pursue a master's degree in finance or a related field to boost my career prospects in investment banking?

Ans: Masters degree in finance would be helpful in upgrading the skills and enhancing the knowledge of the candidate. But, it is not mandatory and one can do well with a bachelor’s degree as well .

Ques: What are some key interview preparation tips for investment banking roles?

Ans: Prepare for technical questions related to financial concepts, valuation methods, and financial modelling. Additionally, focus on developing your communication and presentation skills to effectively articulate your ideas and analyses.

Ques: Are there any specific internships or work experiences that are highly valued in investment banking?

Ans: Internships that are based in the field of finance such as investment banks, financial institutions or corporate finance help the candidate in gaining practical exposure and are a vital part of the work profile.

Ques: How can I stay updated with industry trends and developments in investment banking?

Ans: Stay informed by reading financial news, industry publications, and research reports. Following reputable financial websites, attending seminars or webinars, and joining relevant professional associations can also help you stay abreast of industry trends.

Ques: Is it common for investment bankers to work long hours?

Ans: Yes, investment banking is known for its demanding work hours. It often involves long working days, especially during important transactions or deals. However, work-life balance can vary depending on the specific firm and role.

Ques: Can I switch from another career field to investment banking later in my professional journey?

Ans: Yes, it is possible to transition into investment banking from another career field. You may need to acquire relevant skills, network with professionals in the industry, and possibly pursue additional education or certifications to enhance your chances of successfully making the switch.

Master of Business Administration [MBA] (Finance) : 70 answered questions

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Ques. How good is the department of financial studies MBA (FM), Delhi University?

● Top Answer By Akriti Banerjee on 15 Sept 23

Ans. My brother was a student at this college and so this answer is based on his experience solely. The Department of Financial Studies is a CFA-affiliated college wherein you can get a scholarship for pursuing a CFA degree. Its MBA program is highly coveted. It's the best option for you if you want to pursue a career in Finance and fail to make it to other B Schools. Here are some factors to consider  Fees: The low fees charged by DFS is the USP of the college. You can pursue an MBA at just 26000. IIMs fees on the other end are very high Around 13–24 lakhs. So DFS offers a better ROI than IIMs. Curriculum: Curriculum-wise, DFS cannot be compared to IIMs that have excellent course structure at par with foreign universities. DFS follows the semester pattern, unlike the trimester pattern in IIMs. IIMs conduct case study competitions but this is not the case at DFS. Faculty : DFS has some very well-educated and experienced faculty members much better than at least the new IIMs. Placement: The placements at DFS are at par with new IIMs only and not other top IIMs.  Alumni: The small batch size of DFS has failed to establish an elaborate alumni base in contrast to IIM Ahmedabad. Ultimately, if you don’t want a huge loan to repay at the end of 2 years or the IIM tag, DFS is the best optionRead more
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Ques. How are the placements in the NL Dalmia College for an MBA in finance?

● Top Answer By Tanisha Jain on 27 May 22

Ans. NL Dalmia placements are good for MBA in Finance. During 2022 placements Finance was the top sector recruiting students. Students received an average CTC of INR 6.5 LPA. The highest CTC offered in this sector goes up to INR 13 LPA. Some of the major recruiters from the Finance sector are Crisil, HDFC, Amul, City Bank, etc. Read more
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Ques. How is IMT Ghaziabad if you get a PGDM (finance) here?

● Top Answer By Tanuj Chandra on 16 Feb 23

Ans. IMT Ghaziabad consistently ranks amongst the top 20 MBA colleges in the country. In terms of exposure, you will have the opportunity to interact with good visiting faculty and your batchmates will be people who have ranked amongst the top percentile in CAT. The college also has a vibrant campus life with lots of extra-curricular activities. However, like all private-funded colleges, there are certain seats allotted to the management quota. When considering attending IMT Ghaziabad, it is important to consider your career goals. If you are looking for a pure finance role (PGDM) in front-end Investment banking or PE, IMT Ghaziabad may not be the best fit, as core finance roles are limited. However, there are opportunities for corporate finance jobs and banks visit campus for recruitment.Read more
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Ques. What is the difference between PGDM BFSI and PGDM Finance at IMT Ghaziabad ?

● Top Answer By Sreetoma Gupta on 04 Jun 23

Ans. The emphasis of the curriculum distinguishes the IMT Ghaziabad PGDM Finance programme from the full-time PGDM program. A general management education, including instruction in marketing, finance, operations, and strategy, is provided via the full-time PGDM programme. The program's participants will enroll in a range of business-related courses. On the other side, the PGDM Finance programme specialises in finance and related fields. With the option to specialise in fields including corporate finance, investment banking, and financial analysis, students in this programme will take courses that are highly focused on accounting and finance.Read more
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Ques. How good is IMT Hyderabad for MBA in Finance in terms of ROI?

● Top Answer By Nivedita Trivedi on 11 Jul 23

Ans. There is no fixed ROI one can expect after completing MBA in Finance from IMT Hyderabad. It all depends on your academic profile and the way you spent 2 years here. Some students here come just for enjoying campus life while some take academics seriously and give it their all. The ROI directly depends on your skills and performance in the interview and cannot be generalized.Read more
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Ques. Which is better, IMI Delhi PGDM or IMT-G PGDM Finance?

● Top Answer By Ankit Bhansali on 03 Mar 23

Ans. Both the options you mentioned, IMI Delhi PGDM and IMT G Finance are good in their own individual aspects. So you should rather be asking which is better for you. Now this depends on what you really want from your PGDM. By choosing PGDM Finance you will limit yourself only to the Finance sector, whereas a PGDM core will give you a chance to explore various domains before selecting your specialization. The former is a good option if you are certain about your interest in Finance and want to excel in that sector no matter what while the latter is good if you are open to all options. Talking about IMI Delhi in general, the B School offers an abundance of opportunities through student bodies and other student driven activities. Moreover the additional locational advantage is what makes it a fairly good option. The batch size is also not too big and thus balances the student teacher ratio. Placements are pretty decent at IMI Delhi. The IMI Delhi average package (overall) offered during 2023 placements was INR 17.01 LPA. For PGDM, PGDM (B&FS), and PGDM (HR) the average package stood at INR 17.20 LPA, INR 16.48 LPA, and INR 15.58 LPA, respectively. The primary highlight of the B School is its student exchange program wherein students from foreign universities join the B School for a fixed period while students from IMI Delhi visit a foreign university in exchange. All these factors make IMI Delhi a very good choice in comparison to IMT G.Read more
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Ques. Which is best -MBA in finance from ISB Hyderabad or top IIMS A/B/C?

● Top Answer By Prakriti Sharma on 30 Jan 23

Ans. ISB Hyderabad is known for its lack of specialization in Finance. It’s a common understanding now that even if one is preferring ISB Hyderabad for admission, they know that they should go for anything but Finance. Studying some aspects will give you a deeper insight as to why MBA in Finance from ISB Hyderabad is not recommended. Faculty: Although the visiting faculty is quite decent, it’s the domestic faculty that has ruined the culture at ISB. They are arrogant, pathetic, and extremely incapable. They insult the students regularly and disturb student-teacher relations. Placements: The roles offered in Finance were below average like Operations, Sales, and BD roles. Such roles were offered in abundance by the banks or start-ups. However, the superior roles like IB/PE/VC/M&A/FP&A/Equity Research/Credit Rating/Asset Management/TAS were offered scarcely. For instance  only 10 FP and A roles were allotted that too only to CAs Only one Investment banking role was offered by Barclays Only 5 PE/bc roles were offered and there was a strong preference for a prior IB/PE/VC experience and IIT undergraduate background. One M and A role was offered only 4 Asset Management and zero Equity Research and Credit Rating roles were offered. So the best roles were offered limitedly while the batch size stood at 900. Most students ended up with unsatisfactory placements. Now you can decide whether or not to join if you are confident to face the placement scenario.Read more
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Ques. Which college would you go for if you were interested in an MBA in finance among new IIMs and IIT Madras?

● Top Answer By Lovish Bajaj on 21 Jun 24

Ans. Almost all of the colleges listed here are in the top 20 list of MBA colleges in India for Finance. Among the new IIMs, the ones good for Finance are IIM Ranchi, IIM Rohtak, IIM Raipur, IIM Udaipur, and IIM Kashipur.  The table below draws a comparison of the MBA programs offered by the institutes. Institute Fees Average CTC New IIMs IIM Ranchi- 17.5 Lakh IIM Ranchi- 18.37 LPA IIM Rohtak- 17.6 Lakh IIM Rohtak- 19.27 LPA IIM Raipur- 16.1 Lakh IIM Raipur- 19.7 LPA IIM Udaipur- 19 Lakh IIM Udaipur- 20.3 LPA IIM Kashipur- 17.3 Lakh IIM Kashipur- 18.10 LPA IIM Shillong 22.71 Lakh 26.1 LPA XIMB 21.3 lakh 15.12 LPA IMT Ghaziabad 21.5 lakhs 16.56 LPA IIT Madras 10.9 lakhs 16.93 LPA IMI Delhi 22.25 LPA 17.20 LPA TAPMI  19.45 LPA 13.84 LPA Top recruiters at these institutes include Tata Steel, Cognizant, Capgemini, Accenture, Apollo Munich, Godrej, Emami, Nestle, Titan, Maruti Suzuki, PCBL, HDFC Bank, Mu Sigma, Larsen & Toubro, GMR, Tata Steel, Godrej & Boyce, and Vedanta and many more.  All of the mentioned institutes are good for MBA in Finance. However I would recommend IIT Madras as it has the lowest fees and a good average package.Read more
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Ques. How good is NL Dalmia for MBA in finance? My other options are SIES (MMS) & Welingkar (PGDM). Any help will be appreciated?

● Top Answer By Akash Roychowdhury on 08 Jun 21

Ans. Before joining any college it's better to perform some research on it. The foremost thing is you need to know all the placement details from alumni or the students who are currently studying in that college. Don’t choose a college based only on their advertisement. Dalmia NL, SIES (MMS), and Welingker(PGDM) all these colleges are well-reputed institutions in Mumbai for management studies. I have friends pursuing their studies at these colleges. Based on what I heard, I will say N L Dalmia is the best college among these three. It has better placement records, ranking, and reputation. For Finance specialization, N L Dalmia has a limited student intake, i.e. 60 seats. Additionally, the institute has Mumbai's first Bloomberg Finance Lab. It has a placement average of 100%. The average package for placement in the finance stream is around 6.5 lacs, while the highest package offered is above 13 lacs. So, N L Dalmia is definitely a better choice. But before making a decision, do your own research first.Read more
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Ques. What is the cutoff of NL Dalmia for a PGDM in finance?

● Top Answer By Tithi Aggrawal on 05 Sept 23

Ans. NL Dalmia does not follow the exact cutoff criteria. The cutoff ranges from 92 to 95% for the general category. The admission process is based on your score in the entrance examination and the interview conducted by the institute. This institute accepts various entrance examinations like XAT, CAT, CMAT, ATMA, etc. for a PGDM program. Read more
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