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 is 24 November 2008.
Q: Do I need to submit an online application and provide a recommendation letter?
A: No you do not. To apply for the First Year Fast Track Programme, please submit a one page CV and cover letter to applications@seo-london.org
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.
Q: To whom should I address my cover letter?
A: You should address your covering letter to 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.
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 for XXX reason, what should I do?
A: You should submit a one page CV with your SEO application. If for XXX reason you need to submit a longer CV, please be aware that if you are successful in being offered a place on the SEO programme, you would then need to update your CV to be no longer than one page. You should try and cut your CV down appropriately, please use the sample CVs as a guide to the type of layout and things you should be including.
- 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