If you’re a finance, accounting, or economics student in South Africa, landing a finance internship is one of the smartest steps you can take to kickstart your career. Whether you’re studying toward a BCom, National Diploma, or CA(SA), internships help you gain real-world experience and get your foot in the door at top companies.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- ✅ Why finance internships matter
- 🏦 Top places to find finance internships
- 📝 Tips to help you get hired
- 📩 Example email to apply
📊 Why Do a Finance Internship?
A finance internship gives you:
- Real-world experience with budgets, reporting, and financial systems
- A chance to apply theory to practice
- Exposure to tools like Excel, Sage, SAP, or QuickBooks
- Opportunities to network with professionals in your field
- An advantage when applying for full-time graduate jobs or SAICA articles
🏆 Top Companies Offering Finance Internships in South Africa
1. Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG
These Big 4 firms offer structured graduate and internship programmes for students in accounting, auditing, tax, and finance.
2. Absa, FNB, Standard Bank, Nedbank
South Africa’s major banks regularly recruit interns in finance, economics, risk, and investment roles.
3. National Treasury & SARS
The public sector offers excellent training for finance students interested in economics, auditing, and public finance.
4. MTN, Vodacom, Shoprite, Unilever, Tiger Brands
These top corporates offer finance internships in budgeting, reporting, and commercial analysis.
5. Asset Management & Investment Firms
Companies like Allan Gray, Coronation, Sanlam, and Ninety One offer graduate and vacation work in asset management, research, and finance.
🔍 Where to find finance internships:
- GoIntern.co.za/internships
- Pnet.co.za
- GradConnection
- University career offices and faculty notices
📝 How to Get a Finance Internship: 5 Key Tips
1. Start Early
Applications for 2025 internships often open in mid-2024. Don’t wait until your final semester!
2. Build a Standout CV
Highlight:
- Subjects like Financial Accounting, Tax, or Corporate Finance
- Any volunteer work, tutoring, or part-time jobs
- Excel, PowerPoint, or financial system skills
3. Write a Tailored Cover Letter
Show that you understand the company’s values and explain why you’re a good fit.
✅ How to Write a Cover Letter for a Finance Internship
4. Upskill Online
Take free online courses in:
- Excel & Financial Modelling (Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning)
- Accounting Software (e.g. Sage or QuickBooks)
- Financial Analysis & Investment Principles
5. Practice Interview Questions
You might be asked:
- “Why finance?”
- “Tell us about a time you solved a problem.”
- “What financial trends do you follow?”
- “What is EBITDA?” or “What is the purpose of a cash flow statement?”
🧠 Top 20 Internship Interview Questions & Answers
📩 Example Email to Apply for a Finance Internship
Subject: Application for Finance Internship – [Your Name]
pythonCopyEditDear [Hiring Manager's Name],
I hope you're well. I’m writing to apply for the Finance Internship position at [Company Name], as advertised on [platform].
I am a final-year BCom Accounting student at [Your University], passionate about financial analysis, reporting, and learning in a real-world environment. I have strong Excel skills and recently completed an online financial modelling course.
Please find my CV and academic record attached. I would be grateful for the opportunity to contribute to your finance team and learn from industry professionals.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
[Phone Number]
[Email Address]
🚀 Final Thoughts
A finance internship could be the launchpad to your career in accounting, investment, or corporate finance. With the right preparation, CV, and timing—you can land an internship that sets you apart in a competitive job market.
📚 Related Resources
- How to Write a CV for Internships in South Africa
- How to Follow Up After an Interview (With Example)
- What to Say When Asked “Tell Me About Yourself” in an Internship Interview
Need help applying? Email us at 📧 info@gointern.co.za or browse the latest internships on our Internships Page
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