Accounting Internships: The Ultimate Guide to Landing Your First Opportunity to Gain Experience

Landing your first accounting internship can feel like trying to crack a complex financial statement, but it’s one of the most valuable investments you’ll make in your career. These structured, time-limited positions offer hands-on experience with real clients, exposure to industry-standard software, and networking opportunities that textbooks cannot replicate. More importantly, accounting internships serve as extended job interviews, with overall conversion rates to full-time positions averaging 68%, and some firms reporting rates as high as 95%.

The accounting profession faces a significant talent shortage, with the number of CPA exam candidates declining by approximately 33% from 2016 to 2022. This creates unprecedented opportunities for students who position themselves strategically. Understanding how to secure and maximize an accounting internship can significantly accelerate your career trajectory, helping you stand out in interviews, build professional confidence, and establish a solid foundation for long-term success in public accounting, corporate finance, or specialized fields such as forensic accounting and tax.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every stage of the internship journey, from understanding different types of opportunities and navigating recruitment timelines to acing interviews and converting your experience into a full-time offer. Whether you’re a sophomore exploring options or a junior preparing to apply, this resource provides the strategic insights and practical advice you need to launch your accounting career.

Key Takeaway:
Accounting internships are structured positions that provide students with hands-on experience in real-world financial environments, typically lasting 8-12 weeks. These opportunities bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice, offering exposure to industry software, client interactions, and mentorship from experienced CPAs. With conversion rates to full-time employment exceeding 75% at most firms, internships represent the most direct pathway to launching a successful accounting career.

Why Accounting Internships Are Essential for Career Success

Accounting internships serve as the bridge between academic theory and professional reality. While your coursework teaches you debits, credits, and financial statement preparation, internships show you how these concepts apply when dealing with actual client deadlines, regulatory requirements, and team dynamics. You’ll learn to use industry-standard software like QuickBooks, SAP, or specialized tax preparation platforms that your classes may have only mentioned in passing.

The networking value of internships cannot be overstated. During your internship, you’ll interact with partners, managers, senior accountants, and fellow interns who can become valuable professional contacts throughout your career. Many accounting professionals credit their internship supervisors as mentors who provided career guidance, wrote recommendation letters, or helped them navigate challenging decisions years after the internship ended.

Perhaps most importantly, internships dramatically increase your employability. Research consistently shows that candidates with internship experience receive more interview invitations and job offers than those with academic credentials alone. Having “Accounting Intern, [Firm Name]” on your resume immediately signals to potential employers that you understand professional accounting environments, can meet deadlines under pressure, and have been vetted by other professionals in the field.

The financial benefits extend beyond immediate compensation. Limited academic research suggests that students who have completed internships may score approximately 1.38 points higher on the Audit section of the CPA exam compared to those without internship experience, although results can vary by program. This advantage reflects the practical understanding of audit procedures, internal controls, and client documentation that you gain through hands-on work. When you’re studying for the CPA exam, those real-world experiences make abstract concepts concrete and memorable.

Types of Accounting Internships Available

Public Accounting Internships

Public accounting internships place you within firms that serve multiple clients across diverse industries. These positions are ideal for those pursuing CPA licensure and seeking exposure to diverse business sectors, including manufacturing companies, healthcare organizations, and technology startups. Public accounting internships typically focus on audit, tax, or advisory services, though some firms offer rotational programs that expose you to multiple service lines.

The Big Four firms (Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC) represent the most prestigious and competitive public accounting opportunities. These global organizations offer comprehensive training programs, structured mentorship, and compensation typically ranging from $25 to $30 per hour in major metropolitan areas as of 2024, with rates varying by location. Interns at Big Four firms work alongside large audit teams, often traveling to client sites and participating in high-stakes financial statement audits for publicly traded companies. The prestige factor can significantly enhance your resume, and the professional network you build can open doors throughout your career.

Mid-tier firms, such as RSM, Grant Thornton, and BDO, offer similar experiences with some distinct advantages. You’ll often receive more personalized attention from partners and managers, work on smaller teams where your contributions are more visible, and gain exposure to middle-market clients that span diverse industries. Many interns appreciate the balance these firms strike between comprehensive resources and personal mentorship, with hourly rates comparable to Big Four positions.

Regional and local CPA firms offer intimate learning environments where you might work directly with partners and see the complete lifecycle of client engagements. These internships provide broader exposure to various types of work, ranging from individual tax returns to small business audits and compilation services. While the name recognition may be lower than that of national firms, the hands-on experience and client interaction opportunities can be exceptional. Compensation varies significantly by market but generally ranges from $18 to $25 per hour.

Corporate Accounting Internships

Corporate accounting internships involve working within a company’s in-house accounting department, focusing on internal financial operations rather than serving external clients. You’ll help prepare monthly financial statements, reconcile accounts, assist with budget planning, track expenses, and support audit preparation. Major corporations, such as JPMorgan Chase and Johnson & Johnson, as well as technology companies, offer formal internship programs that provide structured training and mentorship.

Corporate internships typically provide better work-life balance compared to public accounting. You’ll generally work standard business hours with minimal overtime, giving you more predictability in your schedule. The dress code is often more relaxed, the environment less client-driven, and the pace steadier throughout the year without the intense “busy season” that characterizes public accounting.

The experience you gain in corporate settings is particularly valuable if you’re interested in financial planning and analysis, cost accounting, or management accounting careers. You’ll develop deep knowledge of one company’s operations, understand how accounting supports business decision-making, and build relationships within a single organization rather than jumping between multiple clients. Understanding entry-level accounting salaries across different sectors helps you evaluate how corporate internship compensation compares to public accounting opportunities and full-time starting positions. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that median wages vary significantly by industry.

Government and Nonprofit Accounting Internships

Government accounting internships with federal agencies, state departments, or local municipalities provide exposure to public sector financial management. You’ll learn about fund accounting, grant reporting, compliance requirements, and the unique regulations governing governmental entities. These internships are ideal if you’re interested in public service, governmental auditing, or understanding how taxpayer dollars are tracked and reported.

Nonprofit accounting internships offer similar experiences but in organizations focused on charitable missions rather than government functions. You’ll work with restricted funds, learn about program accounting, and understand the specialized reporting requirements for tax-exempt organizations. Many students find these positions particularly rewarding because they combine accounting skills with social impact, whether working for healthcare systems, educational institutions, environmental organizations, or community development nonprofits.

Government and nonprofit internships often offer the most consistent work-life balance, typically adhering strictly to 40-hour workweeks. Compensation tends to be lower than that in the private sector, usually ranging from $15 to $20 per hour. Still, the mission-driven work and specialized knowledge you gain can be invaluable for specific career paths. These positions also provide excellent preparation for those interested in becoming a Certified Government Financial Manager or pursuing a career in governmental auditing.

Remote and Hybrid Accounting Internships

The rise of cloud-based accounting systems, accelerated significantly by the COVID-19 pandemic, has made remote accounting internships increasingly common and legitimate since 2020. These positions enable you to work from anywhere while gaining valuable experience with platforms such as QuickBooks Online, Xero, and virtual collaboration tools. Remote interns assist with bookkeeping, financial reporting, data entry, accounts payable and receivable processing, and supporting virtual audit procedures.

Remote internships offer unmatched flexibility for students balancing coursework, family responsibilities, or geographical limitations. You can work around your class schedule, avoid commuting costs and time, and potentially continue your internship during academic terms. Many students pursue remote internships during the summer but transition to part-time hours during fall and spring semesters, building continuous professional experience throughout their college years.

The skills you develop in remote settings are increasingly valuable as hybrid and remote work becomes standard in the accounting profession. You’ll become proficient with virtual communication tools, learn to manage your time independently, and demonstrate self-motivation that employers highly value. Compensation varies widely but typically ranges from $15 to $22 per hour, depending on the firm’s location and the responsibilities assigned to you. The key is to ensure the internship provides substantive work, rather than just administrative tasks, so you gain legitimate professional experience that strengthens your resume.

Understanding your year in school helps you strategize effectively. Sophomores should focus on attending informational events, joining Beta Alpha Psi or accounting student organizations, and exploring Discovery programs offered by major firms. These early connections can give you a significant advantage when formal recruiting begins. Juniors should treat the fall semester as a job search season, prioritizing networking events and applications above social activities. By your senior year, you should ideally have secured your internship or be focusing on full-time positions rather than internships.

One critical mistake students make is assuming summer internships are their only option. Many firms actually prefer busy season interns (January through April) because that’s when they need the most help. Busy season internships offer intensive learning experiences, higher pay due to overtime hours, and often lead to higher conversion rates, as firms can thoroughly evaluate your capabilities during their most demanding period. Consider whether a busy season internship aligns with your academic schedule, potentially graduating in December and then interning from January to April before starting full-time in the fall.

Essential Qualifications and Requirements

Academic Prerequisites

Most accounting internships require you to be enrolled in an accounting or finance degree program, typically at the junior or senior undergraduate level or in a graduate program. Firms want to see that you’re committed to the accounting profession and have completed foundational coursework that prepares you for intern-level responsibilities. The specific credit hour requirements vary, but most firms require at least 90 credit hours to be completed, with candidates working toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited university.

GPA requirements represent a common source of anxiety for candidates. While standards vary by firm, a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is typical, with more competitive positions preferring a GPA of 3.5 or higher. However, don’t let a GPA below 3.0 automatically disqualify you in your mind. Some candidates successfully highlight their accounting course GPA separately if it’s stronger than their cumulative average. You can also offset a lower GPA by demonstrating leadership in student organizations, relevant work experience, or exceptional performance in core accounting classes.

Course prerequisites typically include completion of intermediate accounting sequences, which cover financial statement preparation, revenue recognition, and complex accounting topics. Many firms also prefer or require coursework in auditing, federal taxation, and accounting information systems before you start your internship. For graduate-level internships, you may need to complete specific core courses in your master’s program before becoming eligible. Review target firms’ requirements carefully when planning your course schedule to ensure you’ll qualify when recruitment season arrives.

The 150 credit hour rule for CPA licensure creates an important strategic consideration. While internships don’t typically require you to have 150 hours completed, firms strongly prefer candidates with a clear plan to reach this threshold. Many accounting master’s programs offer integrated 4+1 bachelor’s/master’s programs, dual degree options, or extended bachelor’s programs that efficiently meet the 150-hour requirement—having your pathway mapped out and articulated demonstrates your commitment to CPA licensure, making you a more attractive candidate than someone who hasn’t considered this requirement.

Technical Skills That Matter

Microsoft Excel proficiency stands as the most critical technical skill for accounting interns. You should be comfortable with formulas and functions, pivot tables and data analysis tools, VLOOKUP and XLOOKUP functions, basic charts and data visualization, and conditional formatting. Many candidates underestimate the amount of time accountants spend in Excel, from reconciling accounts to preparing audit workpapers and analyzing financial trends. You don’t need to be an Excel expert before your internship, but basic competency will help you contribute immediately and learn advanced techniques on the job.

Familiarity with accounting software demonstrates initiative and preparedness; however, firms typically expect to provide training on their specific platforms. Experience with QuickBooks (especially QuickBooks Online), basic exposure to ERP systems such as SAP or Oracle, an understanding of cloud-based accounting platforms, or knowledge of tax preparation software provides a competitive edge. Many universities provide students with access to these platforms, or you can pursue free trials or YouTube tutorials to gain a basic familiarity. Even if you end up using different software in your internship, understanding the general principles of how accounting systems work will accelerate your learning curve.

A solid grasp of fundamental accounting principles is non-negotiable. You should understand debits and credits without needing to think through the logic, the accounting equation, and how transactions affect financial statements, basic journal entries and account reconciliations, financial statement preparation fundamentals, and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) basics. Your intermediate accounting courses should provide this foundation, but reviewing these concepts before your internship begins ensures you’re not relearning fundamentals when you should be applying them.

Soft Skills Employers Seek

Communication skills consistently rank among the top qualities firms seek in intern candidates. You’ll need to explain complex financial information clearly to non-accountants, write professional emails and documentation, listen actively to instructions and feedback, and ask clarifying questions when you don’t understand something. Many accounting students assume the profession is purely technical, but success actually requires constant communication with clients, team members, and supervisors. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, both verbally and in writing, as these skills will set you apart from technically competent candidates who struggle to communicate effectively.

Attention to detail can make or break your internship success. Accounting work requires precision, from ensuring journal entries balance to identifying discrepancies in financial reports and adhering to specific formatting requirements in workpapers. Minor errors can have significant consequences, affecting audit opinions, tax calculations, or financial statement accuracy. During your internship, you’ll be evaluated on your ability to produce accurate work, catch your own mistakes before submission, and demonstrate care in even routine tasks.

Time management and the ability to juggle multiple assignments simultaneously are essential skills in accounting environments. You might work on several clients or projects concurrently, each with different deadlines, requirements, and priorities. Successful interns track their time accurately, meet deadlines consistently, communicate proactively if they’re running behind, and learn to batch similar tasks for efficiency. Poor time management not only affects your work quality but also creates problems for team members who depend on your deliverables.

Teamwork and collaboration matter more than many accounting students expect. Modern accounting work rarely happens in isolation. You’ll collaborate with audit team members on client engagements, coordinate with tax colleagues on complex returns, and work alongside consultants on advisory projects. Your ability to contribute positively to team dynamics, share information openly, offer help when colleagues need it, and maintain professionalism even under pressure significantly influences whether you’ll receive a full-time offer.

How to Find and Apply for Accounting Internships

Leveraging Campus Recruitment

University career services and campus recruitment events represent your primary pathway to securing competitive internships and employment opportunities. Most major accounting firms actively recruit at target universities through formal programs, and taking full advantage of these on-campus opportunities gives you significant advantages over external applicants. Start by registering with your career services office, attending their orientation sessions, and signing up for accounting-specific events on your campus career portal.

Career fairs provide concentrated opportunities to meet multiple employers in a single event. Arrive early to avoid the most enormous crowds and demonstrate enthusiasm by bringing numerous copies of your resume on professional paper. Research attending employers beforehand so you can ask intelligent questions about their service offerings, office locations, and internship structure. Prepare a concise 30-60 second introduction covering your name, year in school, major, and why you’re interested in accounting. Even if you feel nervous, approach company representatives confidently and treat each conversation as practice for formal interviews.

“Meet the Firms” events specifically focus on accounting employers and typically happen early in the fall semester. These evening networking opportunities provide a more relaxed setting for conversations than career fairs, often featuring food, informal presentations about each firm, and opportunities to speak with recruiters and recent hires. Dress in business casual or business professional attire, bring business cards if you have them, and focus on building genuine connections rather than just submitting your resume. The relationships you establish at these events often matter more than the documents you distribute.

Joining Beta Alpha Psi or your university’s accounting student organization provides structured access to firm representatives throughout the year. These professional organizations host firm presentations, panel discussions with practicing accountants, resume workshops, and interview preparation sessions. Many firms recruit exclusively through these organizations at certain universities, making membership essential rather than optional. Active participation in these groups also develops leadership experience that strengthens your resume and demonstrates your commitment to the university.

Online Applications and Job Boards

Beyond campus recruitment, several online platforms offer extensive listings for accounting internships. Handshake serves as the primary career services platform for many universities, with employers posting positions specifically for students at partner institutions. Your university’s Handshake account gives you access to curated opportunities that other students at non-partner schools cannot see, making it your first stop for online applications.

LinkedIn has evolved into a critical professional networking platform with robust job search functionality. Create a complete, professional profile including a professional headshot, detailed descriptions of your coursework and any relevant experience, and an unambiguous indication of your interest in accounting internships. Set your profile to indicate you’re open to opportunities, join accounting professional groups, and follow target firms to stay updated on their posts. LinkedIn’s application tracking and networking features make it particularly valuable for connecting directly with recruiters.

Company career websites allow you to apply directly to firms without intermediaries. Bookmark the careers pages of your target firms, check them regularly for new postings, and submit applications through their official portals. Many firms prefer candidates who apply directly through their websites because it demonstrates genuine interest in that specific organization. Create accounts on these portals early so you can complete applications quickly when positions open.

General job boards, such as Indeed and ZipRecruiter, aggregate listings from multiple sources, providing broad exposure to opportunities that you might otherwise miss. Use specific search terms, such as “accounting intern,” “audit intern,” or “tax intern,” combined with your location. Set up job alerts so you receive notifications when new positions matching your criteria are posted. While competition may be higher on these platforms, they often feature opportunities from University firms that don’t recruit extensively on campuses.

Strategic Networking and Direct Outreach

Personal connections have a significant impact on internship success that cannot be achieved solely through pure qualifications. LinkedIn networking allows you to identify and connect with accounting professionals, particularly alums from your university working at target firms. When sending connection requests, always include a personalized message expressing genuine interest in learning about their career path and experiences. Many alums are happy to help fellow graduates and may offer valuable insights, advice, or introductions that lead to new opportunities.

Informational interviews represent one of the most effective yet underutilized networking strategies. Request brief 15-20 minute phone calls or coffee meetings with professionals whose career paths interest you, emphasizing that you’re seeking advice rather than asking for jobs. Prepare thoughtful questions about their experiences, career decisions, and recommendations for students. These conversations build relationships that often lead to referrals, mentorship, or consideration for future openings. Always send thank-you notes after informational interviews and update your contacts periodically on your progress.

Direct outreach to local firms can uncover opportunities that never appear on job boards. Smaller and mid-sized CPA firms often welcome proactive students even if they haven’t formally posted internship positions. Visit local firm websites to identify potential partners or recruitment contacts, craft personalized emails expressing your interest in their practice areas, and attach your resume. Follow up if you don’t hear back within two weeks. This approach works particularly well during the spring semester when firms may have immediate needs that weren’t planned during fall recruitment.

Alum networks provide built-in connections to professionals who share your educational background. Search your university’s alum database for graduates working in accounting, filter by graduation years to identify recent alums whose experiences closely match your situation, and reach out through your school’s alum platform or LinkedIn. Recent graduates often remember their own job search struggles and are particularly willing to help current students navigate similar challenges. Many students also discover that Big Four scholarship programs offer additional networking opportunities and pathways to internships beyond traditional recruitment channels.

Crafting Application Materials That Stand Out

Resume Best Practices for Accounting Internships

Your resume serves as your first impression with potential employers, and in competitive accounting recruitment, it needs to be flawless. Use a clean, professional format with consistent fonts (typically 10-12 point Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri), clear section headers, and reverse chronological order for your experiences. Accounting employers tend to prefer traditional resume formats over creative designs, so prioritize clarity and professionalism over visual flair. Save and submit your resume as a PDF to ensure consistent formatting across different devices and operating systems.

Your education section should appear near the top of your resume since you’re currently a student. Include your university name and location, your major and expected graduation date, your cumulative GPA if it’s 3.0 or higher, and relevant coursework if you haven’t completed many accounting classes yet. If your accounting GPA significantly exceeds your cumulative GPA, consider listing both separately (for example, “Cumulative GPA: 3.2, Accounting GPA: 3.7”). This approach highlights your strong performance in major-specific courses that directly relate to the internship position.

The experience section requires careful attention, even if you have limited work history. Include any previous internships, part-time jobs, volunteer positions, or significant academic projects that demonstrate relevant skills. Use action verbs to start each bullet point (analyzed, prepared, reconciled, managed, coordinated), quantify your accomplishments whenever possible (“Reconciled 50+ accounts monthly with 99% accuracy” rather than “Reconciled accounts”), and tailor descriptions to highlight transferable skills like attention to detail, time management, Excel proficiency, or customer service. Even experience in retail or food service can demonstrate valuable professional qualities when presented effectively.

Your skills section should prominently feature technical proficiencies relevant to accounting roles. List specific software you’ve used (Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks, SAP), relevant coursework or certifications, language abilities if applicable, and any specialized skills like data analysis or financial modeling. Be honest about your proficiency levels, as you may be asked about these skills during the interview process. Many firms use applicant tracking systems that scan resumes for specific keywords, so including relevant technical terms from the job description can help your resume pass initial screenings.

Writing Effective Cover Letters

While not always required, a well-crafted cover letter can differentiate your application from dozens of similar candidates. Use standard business letter formatting with your contact information at the top, the date, the employer’s address, and a formal salutation. Whenever possible, address the letter to a specific person (like “Dear Ms. Johnson” or “Dear Hiring Manager”) rather than using generic greetings. This small detail shows you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in this specific opportunity.

Your opening paragraph should capture attention by stating the specific position you’re applying for, mentioning where you found the posting, and briefly explaining why you’re interested and qualified. For example: “I am writing to apply for the Tax Intern position posted on your firm’s career portal. As a junior accounting major at [University] with a 3.6 GPA and strong interest in tax planning, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to [Firm’s] nationally recognized tax practice.”

The body paragraphs should highlight 2-3 specific experiences or skills that directly align with the internship requirements. Rather than simply repeating information from your resume, provide context and detail that bring your qualifications to life. Connect your experiences to the company’s values or specializations when possible. For instance, if the firm emphasizes service to healthcare clients, mention any relevant experience with healthcare accounting or explain why you’re interested in this specialization.

Your conclusion should convey enthusiasm for the opportunity, express gratitude to the employer for considering your application, and indicate your availability for an interview. Close professionally with “Sincerely” or “Best regards” followed by your full name. Before sending any cover letter, proofread it multiple times, have someone else review it for errors, and verify that you’ve customized all details for this specific firm (accidentally leaving another company’s name is a common and fatal mistake).

Preparing for Interviews

Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them

Accounting internship interviews focus primarily on behavioral questions rather than testing your technical accounting knowledge. Employers assume you’re learning the technical material in classes and want to assess your professionalism, work ethic, communication skills, and cultural fit. The most common opening question, “Tell me about yourself,” requires a concise 1-2 minute overview covering your educational background, relevant experiences, why you’re interested in accounting, and what attracted you to this particular firm. Practice this response until it flows naturally without sounding memorized.

Expect questions about your interest in accounting and the specific firm: “Why do you want to work in public accounting?” or “Why are you interested in our firm specifically?” Research each firm’s service lines, major clients, office culture, and recent news before interviews so you can provide informed, genuine responses. Avoid generic answers like “I’m good with numbers” or “Your firm has a good reputation.” Instead, connect specific aspects of the firm to your career goals or values, such as mentioning their specialized industry focus, commitment to professional development, or involvement in community service that resonates with you.

Behavioral questions typically ask you to describe past situations demonstrating specific qualities. Common examples include “Describe a time you worked on a team project,” “Give an example of overcoming a challenge,” “Tell me about a time you demonstrated leadership,” or “Describe a situation where you had to manage competing priorities.” These questions assess how you’ve handled real scenarios in the past as a predictor of future performance. Even if you haven’t had formal work experience, you can draw examples from group projects, student organization involvement, volunteer experiences, or challenging academic situations.

Questions about your career planning signal the firm’s interest in your long-term commitment: “What is your CPA timeline and plan?” “When do you expect to complete 150 credit hours?” “What areas of accounting interest you most?” Be prepared with clear, realistic answers about your path to CPA licensure, your timeline for completing educational requirements, and which service lines or specializations appeal to you. Understanding CPA licensure requirements from authoritative sources, such as the AICPA, helps you discuss your career plans confidently and accurately.

Using the STAR Method Effectively

The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) provides a framework for structuring compelling responses to behavioral questions. This approach ensures you provide complete, relevant answers without rambling or getting lost in unnecessary details. When preparing for interviews, develop 5-10 stories from your academic, work, or extracurricular experiences that can be adapted to different behavioral questions.

The Situation component sets the context by briefly describing the circumstances you faced. For example: “During my junior year, I served as treasurer for our accounting club, which had been struggling with disorganized financial records from previous administrations.” Keep this part concise, providing just enough background for the interviewer to understand the scenario without excessive detail.

The Task portion explains what you needed to accomplish or what challenge you faced. Using the same example: “I needed to reconcile two years of incomplete records, establish a proper bookkeeping system, and prepare accurate financial reports for our faculty advisor and club members.” This section clarifies your specific responsibilities and outlines the actions you took.

The Action section, typically the longest part of your response, details the specific steps you took to address the situation. Be specific about your contributions, using “I” statements to clarify your role: “I created an Excel template to track all income and expenses, worked with the business office to obtain bank statements, reconciled accounts month by month, identifying discrepancies, and trained the incoming treasurer on the new system.” This demonstrates initiative, problem-solving skills, and technical expertise.

The Result concludes your story by explaining the positive outcome of your actions. Quantify results whenever possible: “I successfully reconciled all accounts, recovered $200 in unrecorded income, and established a bookkeeping system that saved the club 5+ hours per month on financial administration. The faculty advisor praised the new system, and it’s still being used three years later.” Results prove the value of your actions and leave a strong final impression.

Interview Preparation Timeline

Professional Presentation and Follow-Up

A professional presentation extends beyond your resume and interview responses to encompass your appearance, punctuality, and demeanor. When interviewing for accounting positions, dress in business professional attire (a full suit is recommended for both men and women) unless you are explicitly informed that the interview is business casual. Arrive 10-15 minutes early for in-person interviews, allowing time to find parking, locate the correct office, and compose yourself. For virtual interviews, test your technology 30 minutes before the interview to ensure proper lighting and a professional background, and eliminate potential distractions.

Bring a professional portfolio to in-person interviews containing extra copies of your resume, a notepad and pen for taking notes, any requested documents, and a list of your references. Taking notes during the interview demonstrates engagement and professionalism; however, maintaining eye contact and avoiding note-taking distractions from the conversation is also essential. Jot down key points or questions that arise so you can follow up appropriately in your thank-you note.

Always prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions to ask your interviewer at the end of each conversation. Asking questions demonstrates genuine interest and provides you with valuable information about the position and the firm’s culture. Strong questions include: “What does a typical day look like for interns in your department?” “How does the firm support CPA exam preparation?” “What opportunities exist for professional development and continuing education?” “What do you enjoy most about working here?” “What types of clients will I work with during my internship?” Avoid asking about salary, time off, or benefits during initial interviews, as these topics are best saved for when you receive an offer.

Send thank-you emails within 24 hours of each interview to everyone you met. Personalize each message by referencing specific topics discussed, reiterating your interest in the position, and expressing gratitude to the interviewer for their time. A thoughtful thank-you note demonstrates professionalism, keeps you top of mind during the decision-making process, and provides an opportunity to address any points you may have forgotten to mention during the interview. This simple gesture can make the difference between receiving an offer and being passed over for equally qualified candidates who failed to follow up.

Maximizing Your Internship Experience

First Week Survival Strategies

The first week of any internship feels overwhelming as you’re bombarded with new information, unfamiliar systems, complex terminology, and higher expectations than you’ve likely faced in academic settings. Accept this learning curve as completely usual rather than evidence that you’re unprepared or inadequate. Every intern, regardless of their GPA or preparation, experiences some degree of confusion and anxiety during the initial weeks. Your ability to handle this discomfort professionally, ask questions appropriately, and steadily improve matters far more than understanding everything immediately.

Carry a notebook everywhere and document everything obsessively. Write down instructions for logging into systems, notes about where files are stored, explanations of acronyms and terminology, names and roles of people you meet, and feedback you receive on assignments. This habit serves multiple purposes: it helps you remember important details, demonstrates that you take your work seriously, prevents you from asking the same questions repeatedly, and creates a reference guide for future tasks—many successful interns credit detailed note-taking as the single most valuable practice for navigating their internships successfully.

Ask questions strategically rather than immediately interrupting supervisors every time you encounter uncertainty. Try spending 5-10 minutes attempting to solve problems independently using your notes, the firm’s resources, or online documentation before asking for help. When you do ask questions, batch them together rather than approaching your supervisor five separate times with individual questions. This approach respects their time while still ensuring you get the guidance you need. However, don’t waste hours struggling with something that could be resolved with a quick question—finding the right balance requires judgment that improves with experience.

Pay close attention during training on administrative systems like time tracking software, expense reporting procedures, document management platforms, and internal communication tools. Understanding these systems quickly allows you to focus energy on substantive accounting work rather than struggling with administrative tasks. Many firms have extensive internal resources, including help desks or knowledge bases, that can answer administrative questions without requiring your supervisor’s time.

Building Meaningful Professional Relationships

Success in accounting internships extends far beyond completing assigned tasks accurately. The relationships you build during your internship significantly influence whether you receive a full-time offer and shape your long-term career network. Make an effort to introduce yourself to colleagues beyond your immediate team, including other interns, professionals in different service lines, and support staff. Attend social events and team lunches even if you feel awkward or tired, as these informal settings often provide opportunities to connect on a more personal level than day-to-day work interactions allow.

Seek out mentorship from experienced professionals willing to provide career guidance and professional advice. This relationship often develops naturally if you demonstrate genuine interest in their career path, ask thoughtful questions about their experiences, request feedback on your work, and show appreciation for their time and insights. A good mentor can help you navigate office politics, understand unwritten rules and expectations, make strategic career decisions, and potentially advocate for you when full-time hiring decisions are made.

Maintain genuine, professional interactions with everyone you encounter, from partners to administrative staff to fellow interns. Be personable and approachable by greeting colleagues in the morning, asking about their weekends, showing interest in their work, and maintaining a positive attitude even during stressful periods. People remember how you made them feel far more than specific tasks you completed, and developing a reputation as pleasant, respectful, and easy to work with increases your chances of receiving strong recommendations and job offers.

Mind your professional presence both in the office and online. Avoid participating in office gossip, complaining about assignments or workload, or negatively discussing other interns. Also, refrain from sharing confidential client information inappropriately. Be mindful of your social media activity, recognizing that potential employers may view your profiles. While you don’t need to eliminate all personal content, avoid posting anything that conflicts with professional image expectations, such as complaints about work, excessive partying photos, or controversial political opinions during your internship period.

Demonstrating Value Through Quality Work

Interns who consistently receive full-time offers demonstrate a strong work ethic and genuine enthusiasm for their assignments. Show willingness to take on various tasks, even routine or administrative work, without complaint. Stay late when necessary to meet deadlines or support your team (within reasonable limits), volunteer for additional projects when you have capacity, and approach every assignment with professionalism, regardless of how mundane it may seem. Supervisors notice which interns jump in eagerly versus those who need constant prodding or display negative attitudes about routine work.

Attention to detail separates adequate work from exceptional performance in accounting. Before submitting any deliverable, carefully review your work for accuracy, double-check all calculations and formulas, ensure comments and requests have been addressed, verify formatting matches firm standards, and proofread all documents for typos or grammatical errors. Taking an extra 10 minutes to review your work thoroughly can prevent hours of corrections later and establish your reputation as someone who consistently produces high-quality work requiring minimal supervision.

Demonstrate coachability by accepting feedback graciously and implementing suggestions immediately. When supervisors provide corrections or guidance, thank them for the feedback, ask clarifying questions if needed to fully understand their expectations, incorporate their suggestions into your work in the future, and avoid repeating the same mistakes on future assignments. Your response to criticism reveals your professional maturity and potential for growth far more than your initial performance does. Supervisors expect interns to make mistakes but want to see steady improvement and willingness to learn.

Practice effective time management by tracking time spent on assignments accurately, meeting deadlines consistently, communicating proactively if you’re running behind schedule, and learning to batch similar tasks for improved efficiency. Ask supervisors upfront about deadlines and priority levels when receiving new assignments. If you’re juggling multiple projects, discuss priorities explicitly to ensure you’re allocating your time appropriately. Demonstrating strong time management skills shows you can handle the demands of full-time employment.

Understanding Busy Season Internships

Busy season internships, typically running from January to April, provide intensive exposure to the most demanding period in public accounting. During these months, firms face compressed deadlines for audit and tax work, requiring staff to work extended hours and manage high-pressure situations. Many students feel intimidated by busy season internships. Still, they offer exceptional learning opportunities and often lead to higher conversion rates because firms can thoroughly evaluate your capabilities under realistic working conditions.

Expect to work substantially more than 40 hours per week during the busy season, though exact requirements vary significantly by firm and team. Some firms limit interns to 40-45 hours per week to manage overtime costs, while others embrace intern overtime as part of the authentic experience. According to recent reports, interns typically work 50-60 hours per week during peak periods, with some weeks extending to 65-70 hours at particularly busy firms. The intensity varies by client needs, industry, and team staffing, so your experience may differ significantly from that of other interns, even within the same firm.

Compensation during the busy season typically includes overtime pay for hourly interns, resulting in substantially larger paychecks than summer internships. Many interns report earning individual paychecks between $2,000 and $4,000 or more during peak busy season weeks. While the hours are demanding, the financial compensation often exceeds what students can earn in any other internship or part-time position. This combination of intensive experience and substantial compensation makes busy season internships attractive options for students who can accommodate them in their academic schedules.

Prepare yourself mentally and physically for the demands of the busy season by establishing healthy routines before the internship begins. Meal prep on weekends to avoid expensive takeout fatigue and ensure you’re eating correctly. Maintain regular sleep schedules as much as possible, recognizing that adequate rest improves work quality and prevents burnout. Find stress management practices that work for you, whether exercise, meditation, or connecting with friends and family. Set realistic expectations about work-life balance during this period, understanding that social activities and personal time will be limited for these months but will resume afterward.

The learning opportunities during the busy season cannot be replicated in slower periods. You’ll gain exposure to complete audit or tax cycles, work under actual deadline pressure, interact directly with clients, and understand the reality of public accounting life. Many interns find that despite the intensity, the busy season provides the clearest preview of whether public accounting careers align with their preferences and capabilities. The skills you develop handling multiple priorities, managing stress, and delivering quality work under tight deadlines serve you throughout your career, regardless of which path you ultimately choose.

Converting Your Internship to Full-Time Employment

One of the most significant benefits of accounting internships is their remarkably high conversion rate to full-time offers. Research indicates that 68% of interns overall receive full-time offers from their internship employers; however, the rate is even higher in accounting, with many firms reporting rates of 80% or higher. The Big Four and large regional firms commonly report conversion rates ranging from 75% to 95%, depending on the firm and market conditions, with some firms extending offers to virtually all interns, except those with serious performance or conduct issues.

Most firms extend full-time offers near the end of internships or shortly after completion, typically for positions starting 6-12 months later. This timeline allows you to complete your degree while having the security of knowing you have employment lined up after graduation. The offers usually specify start dates, compensation, service line assignments, and office locations. Some firms provide flexibility in negotiating start dates or office assignments, while others make firm offers that you either accept or decline.

Several factors influence whether you’ll receive an offer. Work quality and consistency matter most—supervisors evaluate whether you produce accurate work, meet deadlines, and show steady improvement throughout your internship. Coachability and attitude rank nearly as high, as firms want employees who accept feedback graciously, maintain positive demeanors under pressure, and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the work. Culture fit and team dynamics also play significant roles, since firms recognize that strong technical skills mean little if someone doesn’t work well with colleagues or clients. Ultimately, your commitment to CPA licensure is crucial, as firms tend to prefer candidates who have a clear plan to fulfill the 150-hour requirement and pass the exam.

To maximize your chances of receiving an offer, focus on these key strategies throughout your internship. Consistently produce quality work by carefully reviewing all deliverables before submission. Accept and implement feedback graciously, demonstrating to supervisors that you can take direction and continually improve. Maintain a positive and professional attitude, even during stressful periods or when performing routine tasks. Build relationships across the firm by attending social events and engaging genuinely with colleagues. Demonstrate commitment to your accounting career by discussing your CPA plans and showing a genuine interest in the firm’s work. Finally, ask for feedback regularly, making it clear you want to understand how you’re performing and where you can improve.

If you don’t receive a full-time offer, don’t view it as a career-ending event. Focus on passing the CPA exam sections to strengthen your credentials for future applications. Apply to other firms, highlighting your internship experience prominently on your resume. Leverage connections you made during your internship, as your supervisor or colleagues may provide recommendations or alert you to openings at other firms. Reflect honestly on the feedback you received to identify areas for improvement in future opportunities. Many successful accountants faced initial setbacks, but they used these experiences as learning opportunities that ultimately strengthened their careers.

The CPA Connection: How Internships Support Your License

The relationship between internships and CPA success extends beyond just fulfilling experience requirements. Limited academic research suggests that students who have completed internships may score approximately 1.38 points higher on the Audit section of the CPA exam compared to those without internship experience, although results can vary by program. This advantage reflects how hands-on work makes abstract audit concepts concrete and memorable, helping you understand procedures, internal controls, and documentation in ways that studying alone cannot replicate.

Understanding the CPA licensure pathway helps you plan strategically during and after your internship. The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy explains that all 55 U.S. jurisdictions require three components for licensure: education (150 semester hours of college coursework), Examination (passing all four sections of the CPA exam), and Experience (typically 1-2 years of working under CPA supervision). Your internship can count toward the experience requirement in most states, particularly if you work under a licensed CPA and your responsibilities include accounting, auditing, or tax work rather than purely administrative tasks.

Planning how you’ll reach 150 credit hours demonstrates professionalism and commitment that firms value highly. Common pathways include earning a bachelor’s degree and completing 30 additional credits through undergraduate or graduate courses. These 4+1 programs combine a bachelor’s degree with a one-year master’s degree, integrated Master of Accountancy programs, or dual CPA/MBA programs. Many firms prefer candidates pursuing master’s degrees because this education provides specialized knowledge and signals serious career commitment. Students interested in exploring options should research state-specific accounting programs that offer pathways to meeting the 150-hour requirement. Discuss your 150-hour plan during internship interviews and with your supervisors throughout the internship.

Many accounting firms actively support CPA exam preparation through various programs and initiatives. Larger firms typically provide exam review course reimbursement (usually from Becker, Gleim, Roger, or Wiley), paid time off for exam preparation and testing, bonuses for passing individual sections or completing all four, and mentorship from CPAs who have recently passed the exam. These benefits represent substantial value beyond salary, potentially saving you $3,000-5,000 in exam preparation costs. Ask about CPA support programs during your internship and take advantage of all available resources when you’re eligible to sit for the exam.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I apply for accounting internships?

Apply for Big Four and large regional firm internships during the fall semester of your junior year, approximately 12-18 months before you want to start. Most firms conduct campus recruitment in September and October, with application deadlines typically falling in early to mid-October. Corporate and governmental organizations normally post internships 6-9 months in advance, providing more flexibility. Start attending networking events and career fairs as early as your sophomore year to build connections before formal applications.

What GPA is required to secure an accounting internship?

Most firms prefer a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0, with more competitive positions requiring a GPA of 3.5 or higher. However, some candidates with lower GPAs successfully secure internships by highlighting their stronger GPAs in accounting courses separately, demonstrating exceptional soft skills, or leveraging connections from networking. Focus on telling a complete story about your strengths rather than letting GPA alone define your candidacy.

Do I need internship experience to get a full-time accounting job?

While not technically required, internship experience significantly improves your employability. Candidates with internships receive more interview invitations and job offers than those with academic credentials alone. If you graduate without an internship, focus on passing the CPA exam sections, pursuing relevant certifications, gaining experience through volunteer tax preparation programs, and targeting smaller firms that may be more flexible about hiring candidates without internship backgrounds.

How much do accounting interns get paid?

Hourly rates for accounting interns typically range from $18 to $30 per hour, depending on firm size, location, and position level. As of 2024, Big Four firms generally pay $25-30 per hour in major metro areas, with regional variation. Mid-tier firms pay $22-28 per hour, and regional/local firms pay $18-25 per hour. Busy season internships often include overtime pay, substantially increasing total compensation. Always consider total compensation, including potential overtime, housing assistance for students traveling for internships, and benefits, when comparing offers.

Can I do an accounting internship remotely?

Yes, remote accounting internships have become increasingly common and legitimate since 2020. These positions typically involve bookkeeping, financial reporting, accounts payable and receivable processing, and supporting virtual audits using cloud-based accounting platforms. Remote internships offer flexibility for students balancing coursework and can provide genuine professional experience, provided the position involves substantive work rather than purely administrative tasks. Compensation for remote internships typically ranges from $15 to $22 per hour, depending on the responsibilities and the firm’s location.

What happens if I don’t get a full-time offer after my internship?

Not receiving an offer isn’t career-ending; it’s just a setback. Focus on strengthening your credentials by passing the CPA exam sections, apply to other firms with your internship experience prominently featured on your resume, ask your internship supervisor or colleagues for references or introductions to different opportunities, and reflect on feedback to improve in future applications. Many successful accountants faced initial setbacks but used them as learning experiences that ultimately led to better opportunities.

Should I do a busy season internship or wait for summer?

Both options provide valuable experience with different trade-offs. Busy season internships (January-April) offer intensive learning, higher pay through overtime, a more realistic preview of public accounting demands, and often higher conversion rates to full-time offers. Summer internships provide a better work-life balance, easier integration with academic schedules, more social and networking opportunities, and less pressure, while still providing valuable professional experience. Consider your academic schedule, tolerance for high-pressure environments, and which timeline works better for your graduation plans.

Ready to launch your accounting career? Explore our comprehensive guides to accounting degree programs, CPA requirements by state, and financial planning resources at AccountingEDU.org. Start building your professional network today through campus organizations and career fairs—your future in accounting begins with that crucial first internship opportunity.

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