Plan ahead to get ahead: Routes into finance careers and recruitment timeframes

8 September 2026

Graduate schemes 

Graduate schemes are structured programmes designed to support graduates at the beginning of their careers. They often include formal training, professional development and opportunities to gain experience across different areas of an organisation. 

As these schemes are highly competitive, it is important to build evidence of relevant skills in your applications. Throughout your degree, you will have the chance to work on projects, join competitions, and take part in professional development opportunities to develop skills in your chosen area.

Direct entry roles 

Many graduates enter finance through permanent entry-level roles rather than structured graduate schemes. These roles may be advertised as Analyst, Associate, Junior or Trainee positions and are often recruited throughout the year.

Internships and work experience 

Internships, including off-cycle internships, can be a valuable way to gain sector knowledge, develop practical skills and build professional networks. In some cases, successful interns may be considered for future graduate roles. 

Professional qualifications 

Professional qualifications can complement your Master’s study and help you develop specialist knowledge relevant to your chosen career path. They are recognised by many employers and can support progression in areas including accountancy, investment, actuarial science and financial advice. 

Examples include: 

• ACA / ACCA – accountancy qualifications relevant to careers in accounting, audit, tax and finance.  

• CFA – focused on investment analysis, financial markets and asset management.  

• Actuarial qualifications – relevant for careers involving risk, insurance, pensions and financial modelling.  

• CII qualifications – relevant for careers in financial planning and advice.  

The most suitable qualification will depend on your career goals and the expectations of your chosen sector. Research employer requirements carefully and consider whether a qualification would support your intended career pathway.

Alternative pathways into finance 

Finance careers do not always follow a linear route. Many professionals move into new areas by building transferable skills and industry knowledge through related roles. 

Examples include: 

• Professional services → finance: Experience in audit, accounting or consulting can provide a pathway into areas such as corporate finance, banking and investment.  

• Operations or commercial banking → specialist finance roles: Roles in operations, risk, compliance or commercial banking can help develop valuable financial knowledge and provide opportunities for progression.  

• SMEs and specialist firms → larger organisations: Experience gained in smaller organisations can provide broad responsibilities and strong foundations for future career moves.  

The key is to focus on developing relevant skills, gaining experience, and understanding how your current experience connects to your long-term goals. 

International Students: Making Use of Previous Experience 

If you already have professional experience from your home country or previous employment, you may be able to target opportunities that require a greater level of responsibility: for example, applying for Associate rather than Analyst roles. 

Many international students underestimate the value of work experience gained from their home countries. Employers are often interested in the skills, knowledge, and achievements you have developed, regardless of where that experience was gained. 
 
Refer to our Finance Career Roadmap below to ensure you are making the most of career opportunities available to you. 

Finance Career Roadmap – International Students

Sprint 1: Build your foundation	August to September	Log on to Careers Hub and book into upcoming careers events and opportunities     Create a CV that is compliant with the UK job market    Understand UK recruitment routes and terminology    Research target employers, including SMEs and mid-size firms    Create or update your LinkedIn profile    Join finance and consulting societies
Sprint 2: Build your experience	September to January	Apply for graduate schemes and internships    Attend careers fairs and employer events to build your network    Fill skill gaps with part-time or volunteering work
Sprint 3: Prepare for interviews	January to May	Apply for off-cycle internships     Prepare for interviews and assessment centres    Build experience with additional certifications and qualifications
Sprint 4: Prepare for the workplace	May to August	Apply for off-cycle internships, SME internships    Apply for direct-level roles     Convert internship offers     Read about graduate support offered by Careers and Enterprise Team