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Preparation is key. Completing strong applications can take a great deal of time, as can preparing sufficiently for interviews and internships. Application deadlines may well overlap with university assignment deadlines and exam revision periods, whilst I have heard many examples of people being offered interviews with only a couple of days’ notice. It’s therefore advisable that you start preparing as early as possible.

How many applications should you submit?

Many candidates ask how many applications they should submit, but there is no definitive answer. First off, there is no point wasting time on an application only to discover that you are not eligible to apply or that all the places have been taken, so do your research! For example, certain opportunities might only be available to students that are studying a particular degree or have reached a specific stage in their degrees (some might even be open only to graduates). In addition, some employers recruit on a rolling basis, meaning that they assess candidates and make offers as and when they receive applications. Beware, as this leads to the real risk that spaces may fill up before the application deadlines. Other recruiters read applications only once the deadline has passed, meaning it matters less when you submit your application. With all this in mind, the number of applications you submit should depend on:

1.     How much time you are willing and able to put in

Sending out 3 or 4 thoroughly researched and well written applications is more likely to result in you being offered interviews than if you send out 100 poorly researched, badly written applications. 

2.     How competitive it is to get the job for which you are applying

If 1 in 20 applicants get a place, you should consider hedging your bets and sending out a number of applications (perhaps 5-10 of high quality). Even if you believe you tick all the boxes, applying to only one firm is a risky strategy, as that firm may have particular requirements that you do not meet. Be realistic. If firms state they only accept applications from candidates with top grades or extensive experience, consider whether you meet these criteria and if not, focus your efforts elsewhere.

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