Thanks. We cover the lists of target universities in different regions here:

https://mergersandinquisitions.com/investment-banking-target-schools/

I don’t think it’s 100% impossible, but I would say there’s a ~95% chance you won’t be able to get in at this point. A better alternative in a case like this if you want more excitement / higher compensation is to pursue something like corporate development at your company (or a related one in the industry) so you can work on deals and joint ventures and so on without the crazy hours/lifestyle of IB (and the huge bias against more experienced candidates).

Unfortunately, i graduated college a few months after 9/11 and this particular firm (like many at the time) had a hiring freeze with some even moving out of NYC with everything going on. This made me go an alternate path in my career leading to where I’m at today. Getting married and having children earlier on also pushed my decision away from pursuing this career at the time due to the long hours required. The work I do now is interesting but doesn’t obviously come with the bonuses that are inherent in the IB world. Plus, I always wanted to work in the IB industry and know family and friends currently at varying levels at GS, Barclays etc. Would it be 100% impossible to get into this industry at this point in my career? Why do I ask this question almost 20yrs later? I don’t know…maybe a mid-career itch? I think I already know the answer to this question unfortunately but I just had to ask! Thank you

You don’t need a business degree, but you do need good academic results and previous relevant internships. Please see:

https://mergersandinquisitions.com/how-to-get-into-investment-banking/

Hi, Brian. I am Dion who just graduated with the BA degree of art history. I consider breaking into the IB industry in the future but before that, I would like to find some internships to see if I am a good fit. I wonder if it is okay to get an IB internship without a business degree. I am currently doing some entry level client service job at an auction house and doing a part-time job at a real estate company.

If you can get into the well-known “Investment Banking Workshop” there, yes (and assuming you have everything else required). If not, it will be more difficult because IU Kelley is otherwise more of a semi-target.

No. No one will question your technical skills if you have public accounting experience and a CPA. Focus on boutique banks / get valuation experience and aim for a lateral move.