Investment banking recruiting continues to shift earlier each year. Here's what you need to know about the 2026 summer analyst recruiting cycle.
The New Normal
Recruiting for summer 2027 internships is now effectively year-round, with many banks opening applications in early 2026 for positions starting in summer 2027. This means sophomores need to be preparing during freshman year.
Key Dates for 2026
January through February marks early application windows when bulge bracket banks open applications. Networking should already be underway. March through April sees first round interviews begin at many firms. HireVue assessments become active during this period. May through June brings Superdays and offer decisions at early-moving banks. This is crunch time for preparation. July through August is when later-cycle banks continue recruiting. Second-wave opportunities open up. September through December covers off-cycle recruiting and diversity programs.
Bank-by-Bank Timing
Early movers like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and JP Morgan typically have the earliest timelines. Banks following slightly later include Bank of America, Citi, and Barclays. Boutiques like Evercore, Moelis, Lazard, and PJT often recruit later in the cycle.
How to Stay Prepared
Start networking 6-12 months before applications open. Have your resume polished and ready by December of the year before. Begin technical preparation early since you can't cram this material. Apply broadly because the process is unpredictable.
Important Notes
Timelines vary by region and specific bank. Diversity programs often have earlier deadlines. Off-cycle opportunities exist year-round. Lateral recruiting follows different timelines.