How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
University
You could study for a degree or postgraduate award before applying for a graduate management trainee scheme. Most degrees are acceptable, though you may have an advantage with a subject like:
- business management
- accounting
- economics
- finance
- law
- maths
It can help if you do a course which offers work experience opportunities, such as:
- taster days or work shadowing
- banking internship schemes
- a year in industry placement
Your university careers service can help you to find work experience opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to join a bank as an apprentice and train on the job for a management position.
Apprenticeships include:
- Financial Services Administrator Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Senior Financial Services Customer Adviser Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Financial Services Professional Level 6 Apprenticeship
- Chartered Manager Level 6 Apprenticeship
If you want to work in commercial or investment banking you could do a Senior Investment and Commercial Banking Professional Level 7 Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start in banking in a customer service role and work your way up through training and promotion to assistant manager then manager.
You'll usually need a least 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including English and maths. Some employers may ask for A levels or equivalent qualifications.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. You'll need qualifications and experience in financial services, sales, business development or customer service management.
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Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Chartered Banking Institute for professional development opportunities, industry news and to expand your network of contacts.
Further information
You can find more advice about careers in banking from the Walbrook Institute London and the Chartered Banker Institute.