Western University Investment Banking Placement (2026)

Western University's Ivey Business School is the undisputed top feeder into Canadian investment banking and one of the strongest IB pipelines globally. Ivey's case-based HBA program produces graduates who are polished, client-ready, and technically proficient—a combination that both Canadian Big Five banks and global firms find irresistible. Every major Canadian bank's IB division (RBC, TD, BMO, CIBC, Scotiabank) recruits heavily at Ivey, and the school also places into US bulge brackets and elite boutiques. Ivey's AEO pathway lets students commit to the business school early, creating a pipeline of motivated, finance-focused students. The Ivey alumni network in Canadian banking is extraordinarily deep—many of Canada's most senior bankers are Ivey graduates, creating a powerful top-down recruitment dynamic. Ivey is to Canadian IB what Wharton is to US IB.

Ivey sends more students into Canadian IB than any other school. RBC Capital Markets, TD Securities, BMO Capital Markets, and CIBC Capital Markets each hire large Ivey cohorts. Scotiabank and National Bank are also active. Ivey also places into US banks—Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Morgan Stanley hire Ivey graduates for both NYC and Toronto roles. Placement spans M&A, leveraged finance, equity capital markets, and industry coverage across Toronto, Calgary, and NYC.

Get AEO status and enter Ivey—it's the most important step. Once in Ivey, the infrastructure supports you. Join the IB Club immediately for structured preparation. The Ivey alumni network is your greatest asset; Canadian banking is relationship-driven, and Ivey connections run deep. Case-method skills translate directly to banking—be prepared to discuss business cases in interviews. Consider both Canadian Big Five banks and US firms to maximize optionality. A 80%+ average in HBA is competitive.