Morgan Stanley

How the process runsTypical for a bulge bracket trading floor

1. 1ApplicationTypicalOnline application with resume. Networking often decides who is read closely.
2. 2Online assessmentTypicalNumerical and logical tests at many large banks; speed and accuracy both count.
3. 3Video interviewTypicalA recorded video step is common: behavioral prompts and often a markets question.
4. 4First roundTypicalA trader or salesperson: why markets, a trade or stock pitch, mental math, what moved this week.
5. 5Final roundTypicalQuick rounds with several desks, each testing desk fit, market views, and how you think out loud.
6. 6OfferTypicalUsually within days of the final round.

Timing between stages shows on each program page once students report it. Firms change formats by year and office; the firm's own invite is the final word.

What it tends to weighStated, then typical

From Morgan Stanley's careers site: Know your resume cold, tell your story with varied examples, have a reason for the industry, firm, and division, follow financial news, and ask specific questions. Source

• A real market view you can defend for five minutes, with the risks to it.
• Mental math speed and staying calm when you are wrong in front of someone.
• Knowing the difference between sales and trading roles and which desks you want.

behavioral

4 questions

markets

7 questions

technicals

10 questions