Top Entry-Level Finance Jobs for Graduates in 2025

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Are you ready to embark on one of the most exciting and fulfilling career journeys? In 2025, entry level finance jobs​ are thriving, presenting incredible opportunities for professional growth. Positions such as financial analysts and personal financial advisors are highly sought after, with median salaries of $99,010 and $99,580, respectively. The finance industry is rapidly transforming, with innovative areas like AI and sustainable investing opening up new horizons. Whether your interests lie in corporate finance or investment banking, entry level finance jobs​ offer a pathway to career progression and personal fulfillment. Now is the perfect time to explore these roles and take the first step toward your future.

Key Takeaways

• Starting finance jobs, like financial analysts, pay $52,000 to $100,000. These jobs can grow into higher-paying roles over time.

• Knowing Excel, financial modeling, and being good at analyzing is important. Learn these skills to impress employers.

• Meeting people is key to getting your first finance job. Use LinkedIn and school networks to talk to industry experts.

• Think about getting certifications like CFA or CPA. These can make you more qualified and help you get better jobs.

• Internships give you experience and connections. Look for chances at banks, companies, or fintech firms to begin your career.

Top Entry-Level Finance Jobs in 2025

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Financial Analyst

Job Description

As a financial analyst, you’ll dive deep into financial data to help businesses make smarter decisions. Your day might include analyzing trends, preparing reports, and supporting investment strategies. You’ll also play a key role in budgeting and forecasting, ensuring companies stay on track financially. This role is perfect if you enjoy working with numbers and uncovering insights that drive success.

Average Salary

Starting salaries for financial analysts in 2025 are expected to range between $52,000 and $65,000 annually, with bonuses potentially pushing total compensation higher. This makes it one of the more lucrative entry level finance jobs for graduates.

Growth Potential

The financial analyst role offers a clear path for growth. You can move into senior analyst positions, management roles, or even specialize in areas like investment analysis or risk management.

Investment Banking Analyst

Job Description

Investment banking analysts work on high-stakes projects like mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs. You’ll research companies, prepare financial models, and assist in deal execution. It’s a fast-paced role that demands long hours but offers unmatched exposure to the world of finance.

Average Salary

Entry-level investment banking analysts can expect a base salary of around $85,000 to $100,000, with bonuses often doubling total compensation. This makes it one of the highest-paying entry level finance jobs.

Growth Potential

Emerging trends like artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain are reshaping this role. AI will automate routine tasks, while blockchain could cut compliance costs by up to 50%. These technologies will allow you to focus on strategic analysis and client interaction, setting you up for roles like associate or vice president in just a few years.

Key trends to watch:

• AI: Automates processes like deal origination and research.

• NLP: Converts unstructured data into actionable insights.

• Blockchain: Reduces costs in trading and reporting.

Corporate Finance Associate

Job Description

Corporate finance associates manage a company’s financial health. You’ll work on budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning. This role often involves collaborating with different departments to ensure financial goals align with business objectives.

Average Salary

Starting salaries for corporate finance associates typically range from $70,000 to $90,000, depending on the industry and location.

Growth Potential

This role offers multiple career paths. You could specialize in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), treasury, or even aim for a CFO position.If you’re looking for a role with diverse opportunities, corporate finance is a great choice.

Risk Analyst

Job Description

As a risk analyst, you’ll help businesses identify and manage potential risks that could impact their operations. Your responsibilities will include:

• Evaluating risks and their potential impact.

• Recommending strategies to mitigate those risks.

• Monitoring ongoing projects for emerging risks.

• Collaborating with teams to ensure risk management aligns with company goals.

You’ll also communicate your findings to stakeholders, helping them make informed decisions. This role is in high demand, especially in finance and banking, where companies rely on risk analysts to predict credit defaults, detect fraud, and optimize investment strategies.

Average Salary

Risk analysts entering the field in 2025 can expect starting salaries between $60,000 and $75,000 annually. With experience, bonuses and incentives can significantly boost your earnings.

Growth Potential

This role offers excellent growth opportunities. You could advance to senior risk management positions or specialize in areas like operational risk or market risk. As businesses face increasing uncertainties, your expertise will remain invaluable.

Financial Planner/Advisor

Job Description

If you enjoy helping people achieve their financial goals, this role is for you. Financial planners work closely with clients to create personalized strategies for saving, investing, and managing money. You’ll analyze their financial situations, recommend investment options, and guide them through major life decisions like retirement planning or buying a home.

Average Salary

Entry-level financial planners typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually. However, commissions and performance-based bonuses can significantly increase your income.

Growth Potential

The financial planning field offers immense potential for growth. With certifications like CFP® or CFA®, you can specialize in areas like wealth management or retirement planning. Here’s a quick look at some certifications that can boost your career:

Certification Name	Focus Area
Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®)	Broad skills in banking, economics, and portfolio management.
Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®)	Comprehensive planning for investments, taxes, and estate management.
Retirement Management Advisor® (RMA®)	Expertise in retirement advising.

These credentials can open doors to high-net-worth clients and leadership roles.

Credit Analyst

Job Description

Credit analysts assess the creditworthiness of individuals or organizations applying for loans. You’ll analyze financial statements, evaluate credit histories, and determine the likelihood of repayment. Your work ensures that lenders make informed decisions while minimizing risks.

Average Salary

Starting salaries for credit analysts range from $55,000 to $70,000 annually. With experience, you can earn higher compensation, especially in specialized industries.

Growth Potential

Credit analysts have diverse career paths. You could move into senior roles or transition into related fields like investment analysis or risk management. Industries hiring credit analysts include:

Industry Type	Description
Banks	Assess loan applications and creditworthiness.
Investment Companies	Evaluate investment risks and credit ratings.
Credit Rating Agencies	Assign credit ratings to entities.
Insurance Companies	Analyze credit risks for underwriting policies.

A strong background in finance, economics, and accounting will set you up for success in this role.

Accountant (Finance Focus)

Job Description

As an accountant with a finance focus, you’ll handle more than just numbers. Your role will involve preparing financial statements, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with regulations. You’ll also collaborate with teams to optimize budgets and improve financial performance. In 2025, accountants are stepping into strategic roles, using technology to streamline processes and support decision-making.

Emerging trends are reshaping this field:

• Accountants are leveraging automation to focus on judgment-intensive tasks.

• Generative AI is enhancing financial planning and risk management.

• Hybrid business models are improving agility and shareholder outcomes.

This role is perfect if you enjoy problem-solving and working with cutting-edge tools to drive business success.

Average Salary

Entry-level accountants can expect to earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually. Salaries may vary depending on your location and industry.

Growth Potential

The growth potential for accountants is immense. You could advance to senior roles like financial controller or CFO. With the increasing demand for client accounting services, 84% of firms report a need for professionals who can do more with less. This makes accounting one of the most promising entry level finance jobs for graduates.

Budget Analyst

Job Description

Budget analysts play a critical role in managing an organization’s finances. You’ll develop budgets, analyze financial data, monitor spending, and recommend funding strategies. Your work ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and align with business goals.

Key responsibilities include:

• Creating and maintaining budgets.

• Monitoring expenditures to prevent overspending.

• Analyzing financial trends to improve decision-making.

Average Salary

Starting salaries for budget analysts range from $55,000 to $70,000 annually. With experience, you can earn significantly more, especially in government or corporate roles.

Growth Potential

This role offers clear paths for advancement. You could move into senior positions or specialize in areas like financial planning. Certifications like the CGFM (Certified Government Financial Manager) can further boost your career prospects. If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy working with numbers, this role is a great fit.

Junior Tax Associate

Job Description

As a junior tax associate, you’ll assist clients with tax preparation, compliance, and planning. Your responsibilities will include preparing income tax returns, researching tax regulations, and ensuring data security. You’ll also help clients navigate local tax laws and optimize their financial strategies.

To excel in this role, you’ll need skills like:

• Tax preparation and planning.

• Knowledge of tax software and compliance regulations.

• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities.

Average Salary

Junior tax associates typically earn between $50,000 and $60,000 annually. Bonuses and incentives can increase your total compensation, especially during tax season.

Growth Potential

This role offers excellent opportunities for growth. With experience and certifications like the CPA, you can advance to senior tax roles or specialize in areas like corporate taxation. If you enjoy problem-solving and working with clients, this role could be your stepping stone into the finance world.

Data Analyst (Finance Sector)

Job Description

As a data analyst in the finance sector, you’ll uncover insights that drive smarter business decisions. Your role involves analyzing large datasets, identifying trends, and presenting actionable recommendations. You might work on projects like detecting fraud, building financial models, or assessing risks. This job is perfect if you enjoy solving puzzles and working with numbers.

To succeed, you’ll need a mix of technical and analytical skills. Employers look for proficiency in tools like Excel, R, or Python. A solid understanding of statistics and accounting principles is also essential. Strong communication skills will help you explain complex findings to non-technical teams.

Some of the primary industries hiring data analysts include:

• Risk management firms.

• Financial institutions focused on fraud detection.

• Companies specializing in financial modeling.

Average Salary

Starting salaries for data analysts in finance typically range from $60,000 to $75,000 annually. Your earnings can increase significantly with experience and specialized skills. Bonuses and incentives are common, especially in high-demand roles like fraud detection or risk analysis.

Growth Potential

The growth potential in this role is enormous. As you gain experience, you could move into senior analyst positions or specialize in areas like predictive analytics or machine learning. Many data analysts transition into leadership roles, such as data science managers or directors of analytics.

The finance sector’s reliance on data continues to grow. This means your skills will remain in demand for years to come. If you’re looking for one of the most dynamic entry level finance jobs, this role offers both challenge and opportunity.

Key Skills and Qualifications for Entry-Level Finance Jobs

Technical Skills

Proficiency in Excel and financial modeling

Excel is your best friend in finance. You’ll use it to create financial models, analyze data, and forecast trends. Mastering Excel functions like VLOOKUP, pivot tables, and macros will make you stand out. Financial modeling is another must-have skill. It helps you predict outcomes, evaluate investments, and support decision-making. Companies value candidates who can build models that simplify complex financial data.

Here are some technical skills employers look for:

• Analytical Skills: Data evaluation, financial modeling, and budgeting.

• Technical Aptitude: Knowledge of probability, statistics, and linear algebra for risk modeling.

• Regulatory Awareness: Familiarity with SEC and FINRA guidelines.

• Problem-Solving: Adapting to market volatility and finding solutions.

Familiarity with financial software (e.g., Bloomberg, QuickBooks)

Finance professionals rely on tools like Bloomberg Terminal and QuickBooks to streamline their work. Bloomberg helps you track market trends and analyze securities, while QuickBooks simplifies accounting tasks. Learning these tools gives you a competitive edge. Many companies also appreciate familiarity with other platforms like SAP or Tableau.

Soft Skills

Communication and presentation skills

Strong communication skills are essential. You’ll need to explain financial concepts to clients or colleagues who may not have a finance background. Clear, concise presentations can make your ideas more persuasive. Whether you’re writing reports or speaking in meetings, your ability to convey information effectively will set you apart.

Analytical and problem-solving abilities

Finance is all about solving problems. You’ll analyze data, identify trends, and recommend solutions. Employers value candidates who can think critically and adapt to challenges. Time management and teamwork are also crucial. Balancing multiple tasks while collaborating with others ensures projects run smoothly.

Key soft skills include:

• Teamwork.

• Problem-solving.

• Time management.

• Communication skills.

Educational Background

Degrees in finance, accounting, or related fields

Most entry-level finance jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree. Common majors include finance, accounting, and economics. Some companies also hire candidates with degrees in data science or mathematics. A strong numerical background is essential, regardless of your major.

Certifications like CFA Level 1 or CPA (optional but beneficial)

Certifications can boost your career prospects. The CFA Level 1 is ideal if you’re interested in investment roles. The CPA is perfect for accounting-focused positions. While not mandatory, these credentials show employers you’re serious about your career. They also give you specialized knowledge that can set you apart from other candidates.

If you’re aiming for a finance role, focus on building both your academic foundation and practical skills. This combination will prepare you for success in 2025 and beyond.

Tips to Land Your First Finance Job

Building a Strong Resume

Highlighting relevant coursework and internships

Your resume is your first chance to impress employers. Make it count by showcasing your finance-related coursework and internships. Did you take classes in financial modeling or accounting? List them. Did you intern at a bank or assist with budgeting at a nonprofit? Highlight those experiences. Employers love seeing practical skills and real-world exposure.

Including technical and soft skills

Don’t just list your skills—make them shine. Include technical abilities like Excel, financial modeling, or familiarity with tools like Bloomberg. Soft skills matter too. Mention teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Use concrete examples to show how you’ve applied these skills. For instance, “Collaborated with a team to analyze market trends and present findings to stakeholders.”

Here’s a quick checklist for crafting a standout resume:

1. Use a clean, professional design.

2. Choose a format that highlights your strengths.

3. Include keywords from the job description.

4. Use numbers to show results, like “Improved budget accuracy by 15%.”

5. Proofread to catch any errors.

Networking Strategies

Leveraging LinkedIn and alumni networks

Networking is your secret weapon. Start with LinkedIn. Connect with alumni from your school who work in finance. Send a polite message introducing yourself and asking for advice. Most people are happy to help. Alumni networks are another goldmine. Attend events or reach out to mentors who can guide you.

Attending finance-related events and career fairs

Career fairs and finance events are perfect for meeting recruiters. Dress professionally, bring copies of your resume, and prepare a quick pitch about yourself. Ask thoughtful questions to show your interest. Follow up with a thank-you email to keep the connection alive.

Interview Preparation

Researching the company and role

Before your interview, learn everything you can about the company. What’s their mission? Who are their clients? What’s the role about? This research shows you’re serious and helps you tailor your answers.

Practicing common finance interview questions

Practice makes perfect. Prepare for questions like, “Why do you want this role?” or “How would you value a company?” Highlight your skills and experience. Practice with a friend or mentor to build confidence. Also, have a few questions ready for the interviewer. For example, “What does success look like in this role?”

By following these tips, you’ll stand out and land your dream finance job. Good luck!

Top Employers Hiring for Entry-Level Finance Roles

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Investment Banks

Examples: Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase

If you’re aiming for a fast-paced and prestigious career, investment banks are a great place to start. These firms are known for their rigorous training programs and exposure to high-profile deals. For example, Goldman Sachs offers its Analyst Banking Program, which immerses you in financial modeling, client interaction, and deal execution. Similarly, JPMorgan Chase’s Jump Start program provides hands-on experience in areas like mergers and acquisitions or equity research.

Other top investment banks hiring entry-level graduates include:

• Morgan Stanley – Analyst Development Program

• Citigroup Inc. – Leadership Analyst Program

• Bank of America Corporation – Associate Banking Program

These programs are designed to help you build a strong foundation in finance while offering opportunities for growth.

Financial Services Firms

Examples: Fidelity, Charles Schwab

Financial services firms are another excellent option for entry-level roles. They focus on areas like wealth management, retirement planning, and investment advisory. Companies like Fidelity and Charles Schwab are known for their robust training programs and supportive work environments.

Here’s a quick look at some firms and their programs:

Firm Name	Program Description
BlackRock Inc.	Rotational Program (with potential placement)
Prudential Financial, Inc.	Finance Development Program (with potential focus)
MetLife Inc.	Financial Leadership Development Program
Wells Fargo & Company	Finance Accelerate Program (with potential placement)

These firms not only provide competitive salaries but also offer mentorship and career advancement opportunities.

Corporations with Finance Departments

Examples: Amazon, Apple

Large corporations like Amazon and Apple have extensive finance departments that hire entry-level professionals. These roles often involve budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis. Working in a corporate finance setting allows you to collaborate across departments and contribute to strategic decision-making.

Other top corporations hiring finance graduates include:

• General Electric – Finance Rotational Program

• Ford Motor Company – Finance Graduate Program

• Johnson & Johnson – Finance Leadership Development Program

These companies offer structured programs that help you develop your skills while working on real-world projects. If you’re looking for a dynamic and rewarding career, these employers are worth exploring.

Consulting Firms

Examples: Deloitte, PwC

Consulting firms are fantastic places to kickstart your finance career. They offer a mix of challenging projects, professional growth, and exposure to various industries. At firms like Deloitte and PwC, you’ll work on tasks like financial analysis, risk management, and strategic planning. These roles let you solve real-world problems while learning from experienced professionals.

You’ll also find opportunities at top strategy consulting firms actively hiring in 2025. These include:

• McKinsey

• Bain

• BCG

These firms are known for their rigorous training programs and high-profile clients. As an entry-level hire, you’ll gain hands-on experience in areas like mergers, acquisitions, and market analysis. The fast-paced environment will sharpen your skills and prepare you for leadership roles.

Consulting firms value adaptability and problem-solving. You’ll need to think on your feet and communicate effectively with clients. If you enjoy variety and thrive under pressure, this could be the perfect fit for you.

Fintech Companies

Examples: Stripe, Robinhood

The fintech industry is booming, and it’s one of the hottest sectors for finance graduates in 2025. Companies like Stripe and Robinhood are leading the charge, offering exciting roles in digital payments, blockchain, and AI-driven financial solutions.

Why are fintech companies hiring so many finance professionals? The rapid growth in technology is driving demand. These companies need experts to manage risks, develop innovative products, and ensure compliance with regulations. If you’re tech-savvy and love innovation, fintech could be your dream industry.

Here’s what makes fintech unique:

• Cutting-edge technology: You’ll work with tools like blockchain and AI.

• Dynamic environment: Every day brings new challenges and opportunities.

• High demand: By 2025, fintech is projected to hire more finance professionals than traditional firms.

Fintech roles often combine finance with technology. You might analyze data, assess risks, or design financial models. These jobs are perfect if you’re looking for a fast-paced, forward-thinking career.

The world of entry level finance jobs in 2025 is full of possibilities. You can explore diverse roles like financial analyst, fintech product manager, or ESG-focused investing. Employers value skills like analytical thinking, communication, and even coding. To stand out, focus on continuous learning and stay updated with industry trends. Secure internships, build connections, and consider certifications to boost your career. The finance sector offers structured yet flexible paths, letting you grow at your own pace. Take the first step today and unlock a future filled with growth and success!

FAQ

What’s the best way to prepare for a finance job interview?

Research the company and role thoroughly. Practice common finance interview questions, like valuation methods or market trends. Highlight your skills with examples. Dress professionally and bring a copy of your resume. Confidence and preparation will help you stand out.

Do I need certifications like CFA or CPA to get hired?

Not necessarily! While certifications like CFA or CPA can boost your resume, they’re not mandatory for most entry-level roles. Focus on building strong technical skills, gaining relevant experience, and showcasing your enthusiasm for the role.

How can I gain experience if I’m just starting out?

Internships are your best bet. Look for opportunities at banks, corporations, or even startups. Volunteer for finance-related projects or join student finance clubs. These experiences will help you build skills and connections.

What industries hire the most finance graduates?

Finance graduates are in demand across industries. Top sectors include banking, consulting, fintech, and corporate finance. Even industries like healthcare and tech need finance professionals for budgeting, forecasting, and analysis.

How important is networking in landing a finance job?

Networking is crucial! Attend career fairs, connect with alumni, and use LinkedIn to reach out to professionals. Building relationships can lead to referrals and insider tips. A strong network can open doors to opportunities you might not find elsewhere.