Let’s be honest-I didn’t always know what an investment banker even did. I just kept hearing the words “big money” and “Wall Street vibes” and assumed it was out of reach.
But here’s the plot twist: it’s not.
If you’re wondering how to become a investment banker, even without a finance degree or MBA, you’re asking the right question. This blog is for the ones who didn’t come from a fancy school or a financial background-but are ready to hustle.
This is the real guide. From one regular person to another.
Why People Chase Investment Banking
Not gonna lie-one of the biggest reasons is money.
But that’s not all. It’s also:
- Fast-paced
- Strategic
- High impact
- Globally respected
You get to work on real deals, talk to smart people, and make decisions that actually move markets.
What Do Investment Bankers Really Do?
No fluff. Here’s what your job will look like:
- Crunch numbers to value companies
- Help them raise money or get acquired
- Make pitch decks and financial models
- Present ideas to clients and investors
Yes, there’s a lot of Excel. But it’s more about business logic than math formulas.
How to Become a Investment Banker (Step-by-Step)
Here’s the game plan I wish someone gave me earlier.
Step 1: Know What You’re Signing Up For
You’re not just entering finance-you’re entering high-performance territory. You’ll need:
- Strong Excel + finance basics
- Great communication (seriously, this matters)
- Thick skin (there’s pressure, deadlines, clients)
Step 2: Learn the Skills That Actually Matter
Forget textbook theory. Learn what bankers use every day:
- Financial modeling (building forecasts in Excel)
- Valuation (how much is this company worth?)
- Pitchbooks (your slide decks for convincing investors)
- M&A basics (what happens when companies buy each other)
Step 3: Choose a No-Nonsense Course
You don’t need a ₹20L MBA to break in. You need a placement-focused course with practical training.
Check out Itvedant’s Investment Banking Course - it’s made for people starting from scratch.
You’ll get:
- Real-world projects
- Resume & LinkedIn help
- Interview prep
- Support until you land a job
How to Become a Investment Banker Without a Degree
Yeah, I know-it sounds wild. But I’ve seen it happen.
Banks and financial firms don’t always care about where you studied. They care if:
- You can build a model
- You understand how deals work
- You can speak the language of business
So if you’re serious and asking how to become an investment banker without a degree, here’s the answer: build your skill set and prove it.
Start with small firms. Apply like crazy. Get your foot in the door. The degree becomes secondary real quick.
Do You Need an MBA or Finance Degree?
Nope. Helpful? Sure. Essential? Not even close.
We’ve trained people from:
- Engineering
- Media and design
- List goes on
If you’re willing to learn, you're eligible. End of story.
How to Become a Successful Investment Banker
Getting hired is one thing. Staying in-and growing-is another.
Here’s what makes someone stand out:
Be Reliable
Show up. Meet deadlines. Deliver.
Be Curious
The best bankers I know are always learning. They ask questions. They read filings. They reverse-engineer pitch decks.
Be Sharp on Calls
Clients don’t care about your degree. They care if you understand their business and can give them a solution.
That’s how to become a successful investment banker. It’s more grit than glory.
Traits of the Best Investment Banker
You want to be the best investment banker? Here’s what to work on:
- Stay calm under pressure
- Think like a business owner
- Communicate like a storyteller
- Handle feedback without ego
Also-remember people’s names. It helps more than you think.
Real Story: Saurabh Shelar
The teacher makes every topic super easy to understand and always encourages us to ask questions. Classes feel interactive and fun, not boring lectures. The environment is really positive and inclusive-I feel confident speaking up, which wasn’t the case before.
What Happens After You Get In?
You’ve got options:
- Investment Banking Analyst
- M&A Associate
- Corporate Finance Executive
- Private Equity Trainee
- Business Valuation Analyst
Starting salaries? Usually ₹8–20 LPA. But the real value is in the network, the skill set, and the doors it opens.
Okay, So What Now?
If you’ve been searching how to become a investment banker, here’s your answer:
- Don’t wait for perfect timing
- Don’t stress about your background
- Start learning and apply what you learn
👉 Join Itvedant’s Investment Banking Course and get the roadmap most people never find.
You don’t need to “belong” in this world. You just need to show up ready.
Let’s go.