Accounting internships: 10 Best Countries to Intern Abroad

Top Countries to Intern in Accounting: Get Career-Boosting Experience Overseas

Accounting Internships! If you’re looking for an exciting and career-boosting accounting internship, why not look abroad? An accounting internship provides an opportunity for students to learn about the day-to-day operations of an accounting department and to develop their skills under the supervision of experienced professionals.

Nowadays, this field of work has evolved thanks to globalization and the internet, making it easier than ever to find an accounting internship abroad.

Types of Accounting Internships Abroad

Corporate Accounting Internships

Interns work with large accounting firms, giving them an insight into what it is like to work in a fast-paced environment. You’ll be involved in the preparation of financial statements, tax returns, and auditing.

Public Accounting Internships

These internships are with government agencies or non-profit organizations and will give you experience in tax accounting, auditing, and budgeting.

Small Business Accounting Internships

This type of internship will give you a more hands-on experience as you work with a smaller team on all aspects of accounting, from bookkeeping to financial analysis.

Audit Accounting Internships

Audit accounting internships are with firms that specialize in auditing and consulting. You’ll be assisting with audits, reviewing financial statements, and providing recommendations to clients.

Tax Accounting Internships

Tax accounting internships are with firms that specialize in tax preparation and consulting. You’ll be assisting with tax returns, researching tax laws, and providing recommendations to clients.

Investment Banking Accounting Internships

These internships are with banks or other financial institutions and will give you experience in investment banking, securities analysis, and portfolio management.

Asset Management Accounting Internships

These internships are with firms that manage investments for clients. You’ll be involved in investment research, portfolio management, and performance measurement.

Hedge Fund Accounting Internships

Hedge fund accounting internships are with firms that invest in a variety of assets, including stocks, bonds, and commodities. You’ll work in investment research, portfolio management, and performance measurement.

Top Destinations to Intern Abroad

Now that you know what types of accounting internships are available let’s take a look at the best countries to pursue one in.

1.- The United States of America

The USA is one of the most popular destinations for accounting students and professionals from all over the world. For example, Los Angeles offers plenty of internship opportunities for accounting students and professionals; Chicago is home to many top accounting firms; and New York City is a global center for business and finance.

US accounting firms are known for their high-quality training and development programs, so you can be sure that you’ll receive top-notch education and experience. Additionally, many accounting internships in the USA offer the opportunity to work with clients from all over the world.

2.- The United Kingdom

The UK is another great destination for young professionals. Many of the world’s top accounting firms are in London, so you’ll have plenty of internship opportunities. Working in London will allow you to work with clients from all over the globe, as well as gain valuable experience in one of the world’s most important financial hubs.

There are also internships available in other parts of the UK, including Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh.

3.- China

China is an up-and-coming destination for accounting students and professionals. With its rapidly growing economy, there are many opportunities for those looking to gain experience in the accounting field.

The main advantage of interning in China is learning about a different culture and business environment. Internship programs are available in all major cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

4.- Canada

Canada is a great place to intern in accounting for several reasons. For one, many of the world’s top accounting firms have offices in Canadian cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. Likewise, Canada offers a high quality of life and is known for its friendly citizens.

There are internships across the country, but some of the most popular destinations include Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

5.- Australia

Australia offers a great quality of life, beautiful scenery, and plenty of internship opportunities.

Many of the world’s top accounting firms have offices in Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, so you’ll be able to find an internship that’s right for you.

One of the advantages of living and working in Australia is that you’ll be able to experience a different culture while still receiving top-quality education and professional training.

6.- Singapore

The city-state offers a high quality of life, beautiful scenery, and many top accounting firms, so you’ll have no shortage of internship options. Some popular destinations include Central Business District, Orchard Road, and Chinatown.

Singapore also provides interns with a multicultural environment, learner-centric culture, and ample opportunity to network.

7.- India

Like the previous destinations, India is also home to many top accounting firms. Internships are available in all major cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai. Furthermore, India is a great place to learn about different cultures and religions.

8.- South Africa

Cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria offer internships in a variety of accounting firms. South Africa is a great place to gain experience in the accounting field and learn about different cultures.

9. The United Arab Emirates

Many of the world’s top accounting firms have offices in UAE cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, so you’ll be able to find an internship that’s right for you. Additionally, today the UAE is considered one of the most important business hubs in the world.

10.- Estonia

If you’re looking for a challenge and want to put your accounting skills to the test, Estonia is the place for you. By 2023, the country plans to become the first “digital nation” in the world, and accounting is a big part of that goal.

Estonia offers internships in a variety of accounting firms, as well as the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology. This Baltic country is also quickly becoming known as Europe’s Silicon Valley. There are internships available in Estonia’s counties, but some of the most popular destinations include Tallinn, Tartu, Parnu, and Viljandi.

Where to Find Accounting Internships Abroad

It’s time to start your search! There are a few different ways to find accounting internships abroad. Some popular job boards include Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn. Alternatively, you can search for accounting internships on the websites of specific companies that interest you.

Another great way to find internships is through your university or college. Many schools have relationships with companies that offer internships to students. Your school’s career center will likely have a list of these opportunities.

You can also reach out to family and friends who work in the accounting field. They may know of internships or job openings that would be perfect for you.

Lastly, don’t forget to search on social media. LinkedIn is a great place to start, but you can also search for accounting internships on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

When you find an internship that interests you, be sure to apply as soon as possible. The sooner you submit your application, the better your chances of being accepted.

Requirements for Accounting Internships Abroad

Keep in mind that these requirements will vary depending on the country and accounting firm you’re applying to. In general, most accounting internships abroad require:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field
• A strong academic record
• Fluency in English (additional languages are a plus)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Hard skills such as Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A professional attitude

Additionally, many accounting firms require interns to have completed at least one year of coursework towards their Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.

The Application Process for Accounting Internships

The application process can vary depending on the country and company you’re applying to. In general, most applications will require:

• A resume
• A cover letter
• Unofficial transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS scores)

In some cases, you may also be required to submit a writing sample or complete an online assessment.

Once you’ve submitted your application, the next step is to prepare for your interview. Be sure to review our tips on how to Ace Your Accounting Internship Interview.

Accounting Interns’ Duties & Responsibilities

As an accounting intern, your duties and responsibilities will vary depending on the company you work for. However, there are some common tasks that you can expect to be responsible for, such as:

• Assisting with financial statements and reports
• Preparing tax returns
• Maintaining accounting records
• Assisting with auditing and reviewing financial documents
• Providing support to senior accountants
• Shadowing partners and managers
• Attending client meetings (virtually or in-person)
• Completing special projects as assigned

Accounting Interns Get Paid?

In most cases, yes! Accounting internships are typically paid positions. However, the amount you’ll be paid will vary depending on the country you’re interning in, as well as the size and type of company you work for.

Some accounting firms offer stipends to cover living expenses, while others provide free housing or transportation. Be sure to ask about these benefits when you’re applying for internships.

On average, accounting interns in the United States earn $18 per hour. In countries like Australia and the United Kingdom, interns earn a bit more, averaging $25-30 per hour. In Asia, interns typically earn $15-20 per hour.

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, check out our internship programs! Also, review our Guide to Apply for Internships Abroad.