Finance · Role guide
Investment Banking Analyst Interview Questions & Preparation
Quick answer
An investment banking analyst interview combines technical finance questions (valuation, DCF, accounting, M&A), behavioural 'why banking / why this bank' questions, and a strong test of commercial awareness and attention to detail. Expect to walk through a DCF, explain how the three financial statements link, and show you understand current markets and deals.
Overview
Investment banking interviews are technically demanding and detail-obsessed. Banks want analysts who know valuation cold, can stay precise under pressure, and have genuine, well-researched motivation for the gruelling but high-paying role. Spring weeks and internships are the main entry routes.
The Investment Banking Analyst interview process
| Stage | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Application & tests | CV screen, online numerical/aptitude tests and sometimes a video interview. |
| First round | Technical and behavioural interviews, often with analysts and associates. |
| Assessment centre / superday | Multiple back-to-back interviews, a case or group exercise, with VPs and MDs. |
| Offer | Decision and offer, often with a fast deadline. |
Investment Banking Analyst interview questions
These are the questions you're most likely to be asked. Prepare a structured answer for each, and a STAR story for the behavioural ones.
- 1Walk me through a DCF.
- 2How do the three financial statements link together?
- 3What are the main valuation methodologies?
- 4Why investment banking, and why this bank?
- 5Walk me through an LBO at a high level.
- 6Tell me about a recent deal or market story that interests you.
- 7What happens to free cash flow if depreciation increases by £10?
- 8Tell me about a time you handled extreme pressure or detail.
Example STAR answer
Example answer to: “Tell me about a time you delivered precise work under intense pressure.”
Skills assessed
How to prepare for a Investment Banking Analyst interview
- Know valuation and accounting cold — technicals are non-negotiable.
- Have 1–2 recent deals or market stories ready to discuss.
- Make your 'why banking' genuine and specific, not generic.
- Be precise — small errors signal you'd be risky on live deals.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Shaky technicals (especially the DCF and statement links).
- Generic motivation for banking.
- No commercial awareness or current deal knowledge.
- Sloppiness that undermines the detail-obsessed culture.
Investment Banking Analyst salary
UK investment banking analysts typically earn £50k–£60k base in year one, with bonuses often taking total compensation to £70k–£90k+.
Frequently asked questions
What technical questions are asked in investment banking interviews?
Valuation (DCF, comparable companies, precedent transactions), how the three financial statements link, accounting basics, and at senior banks, LBO and M&A mechanics.
How do I get into investment banking?
The main routes are spring weeks and summer internships that convert to graduate offers. Strong technicals, commercial awareness and genuine motivation are essential.
How hard are investment banking interviews?
Technically demanding and detail-heavy — you're expected to know valuation and accounting thoroughly and to perform precisely under pressure.
Preparing for a Investment Banking Analyst interview?
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