Investment Banking Recruiting 2026
Complete timeline for the 2026 summer analyst recruiting cycle. Application windows, interview dates, and what's changed this year.
2026 SA recruiting is actively underway. Applications at top banks close fast, don't wait.
2026 Recruiting Timeline
For students graduating in May 2027, recruiting for summer 2026 internships.
Early Networking Window
January - February 2025- Start reaching out to analysts and associates
- Attend virtual info sessions
- Build your target list of banks and groups
- Begin technical preparation
Application Flood
March - April 2025- Bulge bracket applications open
- Elite boutiques begin recruiting
- First round interviews start at some firms
- Resume drops and coffee chats peak
Interview Season
May - June 2025- Superdays at major banks
- Final round interviews
- Offers extended (often exploding)
- Middle market banks still recruiting
Late Cycle
July - August 2025- Remaining spots filled
- Some banks do second rounds
- Off-cycle opportunities emerge
- Diversity programs recruit
Internship Execution
Summer 2026- 10-week SA programs
- Conversion to full-time offers
- Network for PE/HF recruiting
- Build deal experience
2026 Dates by Bank
Approximate windows based on historical patterns. Check firm career pages for exact dates.
| Bank | Apps Open | Interviews |
|---|---|---|
| Goldman Sachs | Jan-Feb 2025 | Mar-May 2025 |
| Morgan Stanley | Feb-Mar 2025 | Apr-Jun 2025 |
| JP Morgan | Feb-Mar 2025 | Apr-Jun 2025 |
| Bank of America | Mar-Apr 2025 | May-Jul 2025 |
| Citi | Mar-Apr 2025 | May-Jul 2025 |
| Evercore | Mar-Apr 2025 | Apr-Jun 2025 |
| Lazard | Mar-May 2025 | May-Jul 2025 |
| Centerview | Apr-May 2025 | May-Jul 2025 |
| PJT Partners | Apr-May 2025 | Jun-Jul 2025 |
| Moelis | Apr-Jun 2025 | Jun-Aug 2025 |
*Dates are estimates based on prior cycles. Always verify with official sources.
What's Changed for 2026
Key shifts in the 2026 recruiting cycle you need to know.
Earlier Start
Recruiting continues to accelerate. Banks are opening applications 1-2 weeks earlier than 2025.
AI Screening
More banks using HireVue and AI-powered resume screening. Keywords matter more than ever.
Virtual Components
First rounds often virtual. Superdays typically in-person but some hybrid options remain.
Exploding Offers
24-72 hour deadlines are standard. Be prepared to decide fast.
Diversity Focus
Expanded diversity programs with earlier timelines. SEO, MLT, and firm-specific programs.
Get Ready for 2026 Recruiting
The timeline is compressed. Start preparing now.
Don't Miss the Window
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