finance internship resume no experience reddit

Join 307,012+ Monthly Readers

Get Free and Instant Access To The Banker Blueprint : 57 Pages Of Career Boosting Advice Already Downloaded By 115,341+ Industry Peers.

• Break Into Investment Banking
• Write A Resume or Cover Letter
• Win Investment Banking Interviews
• Ace Your Investment Banking Interviews
• Win Investment Banking Internships
• Master Financial Modeling
• Get Into Private Equity
• Get A Job At A Hedge Fund
• Recent Posts
• Articles By Category

How to Write a Finance Internship Resume with No Work Experience

If you're new here, please click here to get my FREE 57-page investment banking recruiting guide - plus, get weekly updates so that you can break into investment banking . Thanks for visiting!

There has always been a catch-22 with most finance jobs: to gain the right experience, you need the right experience first.

If you want an investment banking internship , you need a previous investment banking internship, usually at a smaller firm.

If you want a sales & trading internship , you need previous trading experience.

And as the recruiting process has moved up , this problem has gotten worse because you need these “pre-internships” even earlier to have a good shot at the large banks later.

You need to network to win these pre-internships, often using strategies like cold emails , and you also need a solid resume or CV .

But if you’re applying in your first or second year of university, you’re unlikely to have substantial work experience – probably just a mix of student activities, volunteer work, and side projects.

So, how do you write a resume or CV for a finance internship when you have no real work experience?

We’ll answer that question and go through a sample resume makeover in this article, but I want to add an important disclaimer first:

The “Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience” Strategy: Does It Work?

If you have no real work experience, you have to spin your activities, clubs, projects, volunteer work, and anything else into looking like “work.”

This strategy is useful if you’re:

• An early university student who’s applying for finance internships at smaller/local firms to gain experience; or
• A recent university graduate who did not complete internships and who now needs to find a job or off-cycle internship ASAP.

If you’re not in one of these categories, spinning non-work experience into looking like work experience will not work.

For example, with the 3 rd year summer internships that lead to full-time return offers at the large banks, all the serious candidates will have had 1-2+ other internships by the time they apply.

You can spin your student clubs and hobbies as much as you want, but you will not be able to compete with someone who has already had two internships at smaller firms.

Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience: The Makeover

Here’s the example we’ll start with:

• Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience – BEFORE (DOCX)
• Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience – BEFORE (PDF)

And here’s the “After” version that we’ve revised:

• Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience – AFTER (DOCX)
• Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience – AFTER (PDF)

I don’t want to spend time explaining the formatting and style guidelines here, so I’ll assume that you’re using one of our existing resume templates (or a variation).

Even with these templates, though, many students write their own resumes and end up with something like the “Before” version above .

There are many problems, which I’ve highlighted in the images below:

How NOT to Write a Resume When You Have No Work Experience

The main issues here are as follows:

• Significant Blank Space At the Bottom of the Resume – You need to fill the entire page, even if this means changing the fonts and margins.
• Space is Not Allocated to the Most Important Entries – If you completed an investment banking spring week or a 1-day competition that was highly relevant , you should go into significant detail on it and minimize the less-relevant experience.
• Too Many Activities/Experiences Listed – Rather than listing 5-10 different activities and using one bullet for each one, pick the 2-3 that are the most relevant to finance and expand them by describing the specific projects/clients/deals you worked on.
• No Evidence of the Student’s Accounting/Finance/Other Skills – These small firms that might hire you for an informal or off-cycle internship do not have time to train you. Therefore, your resume must show evidence of accounting, financial, or valuation-related skills (and the equivalent if you’re interested in S&T, quant roles, etc.).

We addressed these points in the “After” version by:

• Deleting the Blank Space at the Bottom and Changing the Margins – We increased the top, bottom, left, and right margins and expanded a few of this person’s experiences while reducing or eliminating others.
• Going “All-In” on the Most Relevant Experiences – The student investment fund and stock pitch competition matter more than anything else, so we expanded them by listing the details of the person’s analytical work. The real estate club is “fine” but not worth adding much detail to, and the volunteer experiences should go to the bottom section.
• Providing Evidence of the Required Competencies – In addition to adding more detail for the stock pitch experience, we also linked to the person’s work on GitHub to add some credibility ( NOTE: Before you do this, get some independent verification that your work is solid).

Some of the other changes are more subjective.

For example, we removed the high school math tutoring experience for space and relevancy, but we didn’t necessarily have to do this.

Especially if you did something impressive (e.g., won a national or international competition), you could keep high school experiences for your first year of university.

Another question is what to do with “menial jobs,” such as working in retail or at a gas station or a construction site or something similar.

This person does not appear to have any jobs like this, but if he did, we might leave in one of them .

Even if the job is not relevant to finance, it still helps because it shows that you can operate in a real work environment with other humans .

Enhancement Ideas for the “Finance Internship Resume No Work Experience” Strategy

You might look at this version and say, “But wait, you cheated! This person already had relevant experience; he just wasn’t presenting it well. What if I don’t have anything nearly as good?”

I would suggest the following ideas, in order of most to least viable:

• Student Clubs and Activities – These are usually the best choice if you do not have paid work experience. Even if an activity is not related to finance or investing, you could still list it if it’s in “business” more broadly (e.g., consulting, tech, or entrepreneurship clubs).
• Competitions and Events – In addition to stock pitches and bank-sponsored case competitions , you can also think about spring weeks in the U.K. or other “shadowing” opportunities you’ve had.
• Sports and Other Hobbies – These can also be useful, especially if you’ve been in a leadership position (e.g., team captain or coach) or you’ve managed the logistics or budget for the team.
• Volunteer Work – This one is lower on the list because most volunteer work is not that relevant to finance/investing careers. But if you did something related to the organization’s budget, fundraising, or member recruitment, by all means, list it.
• Side Projects or Freelance Gigs – Especially for sales & trading and other public markets roles, listing software or tools you developed for market analysis and posting the GitHub links can be a useful strategy. Look at the article on quant research for more on that one.
• Turn Class Projects Into Entries – For example, if you worked on a deal or investment recommendation in class or even something like an economic analysis of a public policy , you could potentially turn it into “work & leadership experience.” But this strategy is not ideal because everyone can take classes; it doesn’t show initiative in the same way.
• Certifications or Online Courses/Training – Rather than just writing that you completed Course X, it’s better to explain how you used the training to build something of your own, such as a presentation/pitch, Excel-based model, statistical model, software tool/utility, etc.
• Day Trading/Personal Account (“PA”) – This one can work, but it’s a little questionable even if you’re applying to sales & trading roles.

We probably get the most questions about this “personal account” idea.

If you’ve been day trading and have performed well over months or years, should you list your stats and explain your strategies?

It’s generally not a great idea for a few reasons:

• Traders don’t take it seriously – It’s so different from institutional-level trading at a bank that there isn’t much skillset carryover.
• If you haven’t had a real job, how did you get the money to trade? – The obvious answer is “from your parents.” While many people in finance come from wealthy families, you don’t want to draw attention to this point on your resume.

If you have nothing else , you can still list this type of experience, but don’t make it the focus of your resume.

We also get questions about “activities” like poker and other forms of gambling.

I would recommend against listing them as work/leadership experience; they can go in the bottom section of your resume if you are passionate about them.

Even if you’re applying to S&T roles, a trading algorithm, a new strategy you’ve developed, or simple code (Python, VBA, etc.) for market analysis would be more useful.

How to Apply These Strategies to Fix Your Resume When You Have No Real Work Experience

When you have to spin your experience heavily to write a decent resume, the most important points are:

• Be careful about your “results” – For example, avoid claiming that you earned $X from your stock pitches or investment recommendations. Keep it more open-ended and write about the process you went through because firms will be skeptical of overly impressive accomplishments from a 19-year-old student.
• Be able to back up everything you write – If you don’t know the details of one stock pitch (or any other project), don’t list it. It’s much better to explain one pitch, deal, or project very well than to list 2-3 extra items that you know little about.
• Understand this strategy’s limits – Spinning non-work experience into “work & leadership experience” will not get you summer offers at the bulge bracket or elite boutique banks , nor will it make you competitive with students from top schools who have had multiple internships.

The point of this strategy is not to level the playing field.

The point is to create a resume you can use to win an initial internship , either during the school year or over the summer, which you can leverage into bigger, better ones.

If you understand that, the finance job search becomes less of a catch-22 and more of a progression up the ladder.

A very long ladder that you need to start climbing very early, anyway.

About the Author

Brian DeChesare is the Founder of Mergers & Inquisitions and Breaking Into Wall Street . In his spare time, he enjoys lifting weights, running, traveling, obsessively watching TV shows, and defeating Sauron.

Free Exclusive Report: 57-page guide with the action plan you need to break into investment banking - how to tell your story, network, craft a winning resume, and dominate your interviews

Read below or Add a comment

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Get a Finance Internship with No Experience

Learn to skillfully craft your application, cover letter, and resume.

Join over 2 million professionals who advanced their finance careers with 365. Learn from instructors who have worked at Morgan Stanley, HSBC, PwC, and Coca-Cola and master accounting, financial analysis, investment banking, financial modeling, and more.

You can’t get your first finance internship with no experience, and you can’t get experience before landing a finance internship.

Many people have had to solve this age-old puzzle. I’ve also been there.

Through this article, I’m eager to offer industry insights on how to get a finance internship with no experience. I‘ll provide a roadmap with the main steps in becoming a finance intern to help you get started.

Table of Contents

Step 1: craft your finance intern resume and linkedin profile, step 2: proactively acquire desired skills, step 3: apply for multiple finance internships, step 4: ace your finance interview with effective preparation, internships for finance majors.

• Submit Your Finance Internships Applications

Getting the fundamentals right is one of the most important steps when applying for your first finance internship. Your resume should top the list—ensuring it’s robust and excellently crafted.

Here are a few essential tips:

• Eliminate all typos.
• Select an attractive one-page layout.
• Highlight achievements using active verbs.
• Incorporate job-specific keywords and all pertinent skills.

Your primary aim is to craft a finance internship resume that effectively highlights your skills and qualifications. Seeking feedback from successfully employed peers can offer valuable insights. Be open to their suggestions and implement their advice diligently.

Once your finance intern resume is good to go, ensure you edit your LinkedIn profile. Add a professional photo, edit your headline, and describe your academic achievements and interests. Your finance internship recruiters will likely look you up on LinkedIn and social media, so you must proactively tidy up your online presence.

Review the job description before applying for finance internships and tailor your resume to include relevant keywords from the ad. This approach makes your resume ATS-friendly—meaning it’s optimized for the ‘applicant tracking system’ used by HR. It also increases the likelihood of capturing HR’s attention by showcasing the desired skills.

But what if you’re still developing a diverse skillset and finding it challenging to land an internship in finance?

When applying for a finance internship rather than a full-time position, employers prioritize rapidly learnable skills.

To apply for a financial analyst internship, ensure you have:

• Excel proficiency
• 3-statement modeling skills
• Capital budgeting expertise

Proactively enrolling in the 365 Financial Analyst program and acquiring new skills will enhance your resume and boost your interview prospects.

Demonstrating flexibility, a willingness to learn, and creativity in problem-solving will undoubtedly assist you in securing your first internship.

The Standard Application Process

Previously, I feared I’d never land my initial finance internship or full-time role, feeling quite disheartened. So, I deeply empathize with this challenge. That’s why I’m keen to offer you both standard and unconventional (outside-the-box) strategies that enabled me to secure three finance internships, ultimately leading to my first position as a financial analyst. 

You should explore company websites and stay aware of application deadlines in your area. For instance, many European companies offer summer and off-cycle finance internships . Understanding the publication timeline for these opportunities and the exact requirements for applying is crucial. This knowledge will significantly aid in planning your application strategy.  

Pondering how to land a finance internship with no experience through the standard process? Consider these requirements:

• A standout finance intern resume highlighting relevant skills and academic achievements
• Proficiency in aptitude tests—often required by major companies
• Strong interviewing capabilities

Finance Internships for College Freshman: Think Outside the Box

Sending standard applications can often feel like sowing seeds in infertile ground when no one responds. If that’s the case, try these proactive strategies.

Consider Startup Companies

Working with a startup is in vogue and significantly benefits your growth and resume. By applying to various startup ventures, you’ll likely secure a finance internship offer soon.

Such roles often come with flexibility—allowing you to craft compelling narratives for future paid, full-time finance internship jobs. Even a brief unpaid internship in finance of two to three months can provide your resume with the vital kickstart it needs, enabling you to gain crucial work experience.

Monitor University Job Boards

Consider monitoring your university’s job board for exclusive finance internships—particularly if your school has strong ties with industry employers. Companies often use these boards to strengthen their academic partnerships, offering exclusive opportunities directly to students. Yet, many students overlook this valuable resource, which would enhance their odds of securing an internship in finance.

Some of the best finance internships typically come from companies with proven track records and a long-standing relationship with some universities. Review the board regularly for appealing positions. This method is notably efficient, typically requiring just a finance internship resume and cover letter submission.

Resort to Cold Calling Only as a Last Measure

Finally, cold calling should be considered a last resort. This strategy is effective when other methods fail. Even without advertised openings, companies might still have opportunities. Offering your services for minimal compensation or even free could pique their interest.

Craft a concise, engaging finance internship cover letter in 100 words, attach your resume, and send it to 50 businesses and professionals on LinkedIn.

Enhance your prospects by following up with a phone call. Target organizations lacking structured hiring processes—such as private equity funds, boutique investment banks, small consulting firms, and public institutions.

With some luck, you’ll receive responses and secure interviews for various finance internships.

Securing a finance internship largely depends on your interview performance . Initially, interviews felt overwhelmingly stressful until I discovered a simple truth: preparation is key.

Thorough preparation—especially for behavioral, guesstimate, and situational questions—ensures success since most interviewers pose similar queries. Being well-prepared boosts your confidence, helping you excel and manage stress effectively.

Wondering how to get a finance internship with no experience? Numerous finance internships across various roles could set you on the path to your ideal career.

Whether you’re seeking a financial analyst internship in cities like Chicago, Boston, or Houston, searching for sophomore-level opportunities, aiming for paid positions, or investigating roles in NYC, the following roles will guide you toward the right path.

Finance Internships: Financial Analyst Internship

Financial Analysts delve into financial data, utilizing their analytical skills to help businesses make informed decisions. They interpret market trends, evaluate financial statements, and predict future financial performance.

Potential Employers: J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Deloitte

Average Salary: $60,000/year

Finance Internships : Investment Banker Internship

Investment Bankers play a crucial role in various financial transactions—helping organizations raise capital through stock offerings and mergers. They analyze investment opportunities and guide their clients through complex financial landscapes.

Potential Employers: Goldman Sachs, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Barclays

Average Salary: $100,000/year (including bonuses)

Finance Internships : Investment Analyst

Investment Analysts assess financial data and investment prospects, advising fund managers or clients based on economic trends, financial analysis, and investment strategy development. “How to get into finance” generally requires a comprehensive strategy, beginning with a solid education in finance, economics, or a similar area.

Potential Employers: BlackRock, Vanguard, Fidelity Investments

Average Salary: $70,000/year

Finance Internships: Business Analysts and Management Consultants

These professionals offer crucial advice and strategies to businesses, aiming to boost efficiency and address financial weak spots. Typically, those with a finance degree bring deep knowledge of finance principles and organizational dynamics.

Potential Employers: EY, Accenture, Wayfair

Finance Internships : Hedge Fund Analyst

Hedge fund analysts conduct detailed financial market research, develop investment strategies, and assess risks to advise fund managers.

Potential Employers: Bridgewater Associates, Renaissance Technologies, BlackRock

Average Salary: $120,000/year

Finance Internships : Accounting Internship

After a thorough evaluation, accountants scrutinize financial records—guiding clients on effective fund management and organization.

Potential Employers: Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo, EY LLP

Average Salary: $50,000/year

Finance Internships : Auditors

Auditors verify the accuracy and legality of financial records—offering recommendations to mitigate financial risks based on their analyses.

Potential Employers: Credit Suisse, CohnReznick LLP, Facebook

Average Salary: $55,000/year

Submit Your Finance Internship Applications

Landing an internship in finance is not easy. Reflecting on my initial finance internship application, I smile. Despite the smile, navigating the process proved challenging and seemingly endless.

Here’s my advice on how to get a finance internship with no experience—exercise patience and diligently follow the four steps above, which will significantly impact your success in securing that job.

Remember, it’s not about if you’ll receive an offer but when .

Expanding your knowledge and skills consistently is essential to maintaining a competitive edge. Our comprehensive course selection is tailored to enhance your finance career and guide you on how to get a finance internship with no experience.

FREE SIGN-UP NOW

The best finance internship depends on your career goals, but investment banking, corporate finance, or asset management internships are highly regarded for their comprehensive learning opportunities and industry exposure.

A finance intern supports financial analysis, assists in creating financial reports, participates in budgeting processes, and may help conduct research or analysis that informs investment or business decisions. Their role is to provide support while gaining practical experience in financial operations.

To be a finance intern, you should pursue a degree in finance or a related field, possess basic knowledge of financial principles, and have strong analytical and numerical skills. Some internships may require specific coursework or experience with financial software.

The pay rate for finance interns can vary widely depending on the company, location, and industry. Finance internships at large firms or major financial hubs generally offer competitive wages, sometimes aligning with entry-level analyst positions.

Breaking into finance without experience can be challenging but feasible. Start by gaining financial knowledge through courses or certifications, network extensively, consider entry-level positions or internships, and demonstrate your interest and commitment to the field in your applications.

Finance internships can be competitive, especially at top firms or prestigious roles. Success often depends on your academic background, relevant skills, networking efforts, and ability to demonstrate your passion for finance.

Yes, securing a finance job without an internship is possible, particularly if you have a solid educational background and relevant skills and can showcase your financial acumen through other experiences or projects. Networking and targeting entry-level positions can also facilitate this transition.

Share this article:

Ned Krastev

We think you will also like, top 10 highest paying finance jobs.

How Many Jobs Are Available in Finance?

Answering Qualification Interview Questions