When should you start networking?

Start 6 to 9 months before applications open for your target banks.

What if deadlines move earlier?

Treat rolling postings as week-one priorities and update your tracker weekly.

Investment Banking Recruiting Timeline: Updated 2026 (2026)

A 2026 IB recruiting timeline with monthly milestones, prep priorities, and what to do when deadlines move, roll early, or re-open, plus a weekly tracker.

2026 timeline at a glance

Period	What happens	Your focus
Jan-Mar	Early outreach and prep	Build list, start technical reps, polish resume
Apr-Jun	Rolling opens begin	Apply early, pair each app with outreach
Jul-Aug	First rounds accelerate	Mock interviews, case reps, market briefings
Sep-Oct	Superdays peak	Refine answers, tighten story, follow up fast
Nov-Dec	Late openings and conversions	Target boutiques and off-cycle roles

What to do when timelines move

Assume rolling postings are week-one priorities.
Run a weekly tracker refresh every Friday.
Keep 3 ready-to-send outreach notes queued.

Use Applications & Timelines and the Sophomore Programs Tracker to stay current.