Eligibility Questions
Q: I am not a first year university student. May I still apply for the First Year Fast Track Programme?
A: Only first year university students (or second year students on a four year degree course) are eligible to apply for the First Year Fast Track Programme. If you are in your penultimate year of study or in your final year and intending to pursue a one year master’s degree after graduation, you may be eligible to apply for the Investment Banking Internship Programme.
Q: Is there a grade requirement for the First Year Fast Track Programme?
A: SEO's minimum grade requirement for the First Year Fast Track is equivalent to 'BBB' at A-level.
Q: I did not achieve BBB equivalent at A-level. Can I still apply for the First Year Fast Track Programme?
A: Applicants who do not achieve a minimum of BBB at A-level will generally not be considered unless there are mitigating circumstances (e.g. medical issues, for which the applicant would have to provide official documentation).
Application Questions
Q: When is the deadline for applications?
A: The deadline for applications to the First Year Fast Track Programme has been extended to 22 November 2009.
Q: Do I need to submit an online application and provide a recommendation letter?
A: Yes. To apply for the First Year Fast Track Programme, please make an online application and ensure that you have one recommendation from a college/school tutor.
Q: Will there be a numeracy test, interview or assessment centre for First Year Fast Track applicants?
A: No, candidates will be screened based on their CVs and cover letters only. You may also be required to undertake a telephone interview.
Q: To whom should I address my cover letter?
A: You should address your covering letter to Miss Carmen Wan (Programme Coordinator).
Q: A significant portion of my education has taken place outside of the UK. How do you advise that I fill out the education portion of my CV?
A: You should include as best you can the international equivalent for each academic qualification. As we will be assessing your application along side your CV (which should include all the relevant details) any questions we have we will contact you about.
Q: I am applying to some Spring Insight programmes at some of SEO’s sponsor firms. May I still apply to the SEO First Year Fast Track?
A: Yes.
Q: My CV is longer than one page, what should I do?
A: It is an industry standard that for Investment Banking and Corporate Law that you supply a one page CV. At this stage you should use this opportunity to create a concise and professional CV in line with what would be expected in your internship applications next year and of course subsequent job applications.
- What is First Year Fast Track?
- First Year Fast Track Key Dates
- Making a Strong Application
- First Year Fast Track FAQs
- Sponsor Investment Banks
When I applied, I believed that the SEO First Year Fast Track Programme would provide me with an excellent introductory platform to learn about the investment banking industry, the major banks and their business areas. I was not disappointed. The programme fulfilled all my expectations. In addition, I obtained an insight into the different banks’ cultures and learnt a great deal more about SEO as an organisation. SEO also provided me with invaluable networking opportunities with its sponsor banks and alumni. Without a doubt, the key thing for me is the wonderful people I met during the programme, which included both the SEO staff and my peers.
Gordon Chua First Year Programme Participant March 2008