8 Accounting Internships for High School Students
If you are a high school student interested in finance, accounting, or business, you do not want to miss these internships! In the world of finance and accounting, the value of hands-on experience cannot be overstated. It's not just about balancing spreadsheets and crunching numbers; it's about developing critical problem-solving skills, gaining insights into the intricacies of financial management, and building a strong foundation for a future in the industry.
These internships will also allow you to gain practical, real-world experience in accounting, enhancing your résumé and increasing your competitiveness on college applications. Colleges look for students who demonstrate a clear passion for their chosen subject so these internships will provide you with a unique story to tell, a tangible demonstration of your commitment to your chosen field, and a clear signal that you're ready to excel in academic and professional realms.
Here are 8 of the best accounting and finance internships for high school students.
Location: Washington DC
Stipend: Hourly stipend
Program dates: 8 weeks (June - August)
Application Deadline: January
Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors
The Bank of America Student Leaders Program is an exceptional opportunity for you if you have a passion for accounting. Throughout the program, you can expect to gain a well-rounded education in various financial and accounting principles, including budgeting, financial analysis, and financial planning. The program will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the intricacies of financial management and accounting.
As part of their participation in the program, you will engage in real-world projects and assignments related to financial analysis and community leadership. This hands-on experience allows you to apply their classroom knowledge to practical situations, fostering problem-solving skills and leadership abilities.
One of the notable perks of the Bank of America Student Leaders Program is the emphasis on community involvement and networking. You will have the opportunity to connect with professionals in the banking and financial industry, which can be valuable for those interested in pursuing a career in accounting. Additionally, the program often includes access to guest lectures and workshops led by experienced professionals, providing you with a broader perspective on the financial industry.
Application deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year (Fall deadline on August 27, 2023)
Eligibility: All high school students
Program dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year
Location: Virtual
Fee: $1,990
Ladder Internships is a great program for you if you have an interest in accounting, offering a comprehensive learning experience that extends far beyond the classroom. You can expect to dive deep into various facets of finance, including financial analysis, tax preparation, and audit procedures through projects. These projects often involve working with a Ladder Coach, who will offer guidance and mentorship, and help you develop crucial problem-solving skills and a practical understanding of the field.
One of the standout features of Ladder Internships is the emphasis on networking and professional development. You will have the unique opportunity to connect with industry experts and mentors who can provide valuable insights and guidance. You will also have access to guest lectures and workshops, enabling them to learn from top professionals in the accounting world.
Location: New York City
Stipend: $25 an hour
Program dates: 3 weeks in July
Application Deadline: Unspecified
Eligibility: Rising Junior or Senior in high school; Commitment to all dates and times of the internship; Live in commutable proximity to the KPMG local office and can participate in-person during normal business hours
The KPMG U.S. Empower High School Experience is a program designed to provide high school students with a comprehensive and hands-on introduction to the world of accounting and professional services. Throughout this immersive experience, you can expect to gain a deep understanding of fundamental accounting principles, auditing procedures, tax concepts, and advisory services. This goes beyond textbook knowledge, as participants engage in interactive workshops, collaborate on real-world case studies, and interact with KPMG professionals.
During the program, you will be encouraged to work in teams, develop problem-solving skills, and enhance their critical thinking abilities. This experience serves as an exceptional opportunity for participants to build a strong foundation for their future careers in the finance and accounting industry.
One of the standout aspects of the KPMG U.S. Empower High School Experience is the networking and mentorship opportunities it offers. You will have the chance to connect with professionals at KPMG, learning from their experiences and insights. This can be invaluable in making informed career choices and building professional relationships that will prove beneficial in the future. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to attend guest lectures and workshops led by industry experts, further enriching their understanding of the field.
Location: Various locations across the US
Stipend: Paid
Program dates: 8 weeks from late June to August
Application Deadline: January
Eligibility: High school students between 16 - 18 years old
The CLA High School Internship Program is an outstanding opportunity for high school students aspiring to enter the world of accounting and finance. You can expect to gain an extensive and practical understanding of accounting, covering areas such as tax preparation, financial analysis, and audit procedures. You will be actively involved in real-world projects, where you work alongside experienced professionals to apply classroom knowledge to actual scenarios, honing their problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.
One of the key advantages of the CLA High School Internship Program is the emphasis on networking and professional development. You will have the chance to connect with seasoned professionals, mentors, and peers, enabling them to build invaluable relationships and gain insights into the accounting industry. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to attend guest lectures and workshops, providing a comprehensive view of the industry and exposing them to diverse perspectives and approaches.
Location: Varies
Stipend: No cost, annual scholarships to college offered ($10,000 per year)
Program dates:
Application Deadline: January
Eligibility: Female high school seniors
The KPMG Future Leaders Program is an exceptional opportunity for students with a strong interest in accounting and finance. You can expect a well-rounded education in accounting principles, financial analysis, tax preparation, and audit procedures, all designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field. The program includes hands-on projects and assignments that enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, helping them develop critical problem-solving skills and practical expertise.
Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive recognition in the form of a certificate, highlighting your dedication and proficiency in accounting. This serves as a valuable addition to their academic and professional credentials. In summary, the KPMG Future Leaders Program provides a comprehensive education in accounting, practical experience, mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to industry experts, ultimately preparing students for successful careers in accounting and finance.
Location: Boston, MA
Stipend: Paid
Program dates: 5 weeks from July - August
Application Deadline: To be Announced in February
Eligibility: High School Students
The Fidelity Investments Asset Management High School Summer Internship is an exceptional opportunity for you if you’re eager to explore the field of accounting and finance. Throughout this program, you can anticipate a deep dive into the world of asset management, equipping them with a broad range of skills and knowledge. You will learn about investment strategies, financial analysis, risk management, and portfolio management, gaining valuable insights into the complexities of the financial industry.
During the internship, you will be actively engaged in real-world projects and tasks, working alongside seasoned professionals to apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations. This hands-on experience helps you cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of the intricacies of asset management.
Upon completion of the program, you will gain a deeper understanding of asset management and receive a certificate that attests to their dedication and competence in the field. This experience will not only enrich your academic and professional portfolios but also set you on a path to a successful career in accounting and finance. In summary, the Fidelity Investments Asset Management High School Summer Internship is an exceptional program that offers comprehensive education, hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to learn from industry experts, all aimed at shaping the future success of students interested in accounting and finance.
Location: Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
Stipend: Paid
Program Dates: July - August
Application Deadline: Unspecified
Eligibility: High School Students who have completed their sophomore year of high school and attend a Boston public high school
The Today's Interns, Tomorrow's Professionals (TIP) internship program is a remarkable opportunity for students enthusiastic about pursuing a career in accounting. If selected, you can anticipate a comprehensive educational experience covering a wide array of accounting principles, financial analysis, tax preparation, and audit procedures, providing you with a well-rounded foundation in the field. Throughout the internship, you will be entrusted with real-world projects and tasks, enabling you to apply your classroom knowledge to practical situations, thus fostering your problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.
One of the distinctive features of the TIP internship program is the strong emphasis on networking and professional development. You will have access to experienced mentors and professionals who offer guidance and valuable insights. The program often includes opportunities to attend guest lectures and workshops led by industry experts, broadening your perspectives and introducing you to various aspects of the accounting field.
You will also have the opportunity to receive a certificate recognizing their dedication and proficiency in accounting. This certificate serves as a valuable addition to their academic and professional portfolios.
Location: New York City
Stipend: Unpaid
Program dates: 6 weeks (varies)
Application Deadline: TBD
Eligibility: Females between the ages of 13 and 21
The Bella Abzug Leadership Institute (BALI) is a unique program that offers an excellent opportunity for students interested in accounting. You can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of various accounting principles, financial analysis, tax preparation, and auditing procedures, providing you with a strong foundation in the field. The program is designed to encourage hands-on learning, where you will engage in real-world accounting projects and tasks, helping you develop practical skills and problem-solving capabilities.
One of the standout features of the BALI program is the emphasis on leadership and personal development. In addition to the technical accounting knowledge, you are encouraged to develop leadership skills, effective communication, and critical thinking abilities. This holistic approach prepares you not only for a career in accounting but also for leadership roles within the industry.
One other option - Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you would like to dive further into research in business, finance, and economics, you should also consider applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program, a selective online high school program for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here.
Jessica attends Harvard University where she studies Neuroscience and Computer Science as a Coca-Cola, Elks, and Albert Shankar Scholar. She is passionate about educational equity and hopes to one day combine this with her academic interests via social entrepreneurship. Outside of academics, she enjoys taking walks, listening to music, and running her jewelry business!
Image Source: Bank of America Student Leaders logo