How to Land a J-1 Accounting and Finance Internship in the U.S.

When it comes to kickstarting your career in accounting and finance, there’s no better way to gain real-world experience than through an internship. And there’s no better place to do so than the United States—a global financial powerhouse that’s home to some of the world’s most prestigious firms. 

From bustling Wall Street offices in New York City to innovative tech companies in Silicon Valley, the U.S. offers incredible opportunities to develop your skills, build your resume, and grow your professional network with accounting and finance internships. 

For international students and recent graduates, the dream of interning in the U.S. is made possible through the J-1 visa program, which allows you to live, work, and immerse yourself in American culture while gaining hands-on experience in your field.

Navigating the process of securing an internship and obtaining a visa can be a lot to deal with, but that’s where Intrax Global Internships comes in. With our expertise and personalized support, we make it easier than ever to turn your ambition into reality. We act as your J-1 visa sponsor and have worked with some of the most prestigious companies in the country, including Robinhood, Ripple, and Equilar.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about accounting and finance internships in the U.S., including: 

1. Why the U.S. is such a popular destination for accounting and finance internships
2. How the J-1 visa works, and who can apply
3. The types of finance and accounting internships available 
4. What to expect as a finance or accounting intern in the U.S. 
5. How much you can earn as an accounting or finance intern
6. How to apply for an accounting or finance internship with Intrax Global Internships

Read on to learn about accounting and finance internships in the U.S., or contact us here to discover how Intrax Global Internships can help you launch your career with a U.S.-based internship.

Why Choose the U.S. for Accounting and Finance Internships?

The United States is a top destination for international students and graduates seeking accounting and finance internships. Aside from the fact that interns are almost 25% more likely than non-interns to start a full-time position within six months of graduating, the U.S. provides opportunities to gain valuable skills, build your professional network, and lay the foundation for a successful career. 

The U.S. as a Global Financial Hub

The U.S. is at the forefront of the global financial system, with renowned financial centers like New York City, Chicago, and San Francisco shaping the world’s economy. It’s home to iconic institutions such as the Federal Reserve, the New York Stock Exchange, and leading multinational corporations. 

As an international intern in the U.S., you’ll gain firsthand experience working in one of the most advanced financial markets in the world. Whether it’s assisting in audits at a Big Four accounting firm, analyzing investment opportunities at a hedge fund, or developing financial models for a tech startup, you’ll work alongside top professionals and learn industry practices that are recognized worldwide.

The U.S. is also at the cutting edge of innovation in finance. With the rise of fintech, cryptocurrency, and sustainable investing, you’ll have the chance to explore exciting, emerging sectors that are transforming the industry. This exposure will boost your resume and prepare you for the global demands of the finance and accounting fields.

Exposure to a Dynamic Work Culture

The work culture in the U.S. is known for its fast-paced, goal-oriented, and collaborative environment. International internships give you the opportunity to experience this culture firsthand. You’ll be encouraged to contribute ideas, take initiative, and engage in meaningful projects that go beyond simple administrative tasks.

Many organizations provide interns with mentorship, training opportunities, and constructive feedback, helping you grow both personally and professionally. This hands-on approach ensures that you’re gaining technical skills and learning how to communicate effectively, work in teams, and adapt to a multicultural workplace.

Understanding the J-1 Visa for Interns

For international students and recent graduates, the J-1 visa is the gateway to your internship in the United States. Designed to foster cultural exchange and professional development, the J-1 visa allows you to live and work in the U.S. while building skills to boost your career. 

What is the J-1 Visa?

The J-1 visa is part of the Exchange Visitor Program, a U.S. government initiative aimed at promoting international understanding through educational and cultural exchange. For interns, the J-1 visa allows you to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months while gaining hands-on experience in your chosen field. Beyond professional growth, it emphasizes cultural immersion, encouraging participants to experience American life and share their own culture with others.

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Eligibility Requirements for the J-1 Visa

To qualify for a J-1 visa as an intern, you must meet specific requirements:

• Educational background: You must currently be enrolled in a post-secondary institution outside the U.S. or have graduated within the last 12 months before your internship start date.
• Field of study: Your internship must be directly related to your academic field or career goals, such as accounting, finance, or related disciplines.
• Program sponsorship: A designated sponsor organization, like Intrax Global Internships, must issue the necessary paperwork—you can’t apply for your own J-1 visa.
• English proficiency: You’ll need to demonstrate sufficient English skills to perform successfully in your internship and navigate daily life in the U.S.

How Intrax Global Internships Simplifies the J-1 Visa Process

As we just mentioned, you can’t apply for your own J-1 visa, and neither can your host company or organization. That’s where Intrax Global Internships comes in! Once you’ve secured an internship opportunity, we act as your Department of State-designated J-1 visa sponsor. 

All you need to do is upload the documents we ask for, and we’ll work with you and your host company to issue your DS-2019, the form you’ll need to book your J-1 visa interview. We’ll help you prepare for the interview, which takes place at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Following approval, your visa will be issued and you’ll be able to lock in your travel dates. 

Ready to get started? Reach out here to take the first step in securing your J-1 visa for an accounting and finance internship!

Types of Accounting and Finance Internships in the U.S.

Whether you dream of working at a Big Four accounting firm, managing corporate budgets, or analyzing financial markets, there’s a role for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the most common internship opportunities in accounting and finance.

Public Accounting Internships

Public accounting firms are among the most sought-after employers for aspiring accountants. These firms provide services such as auditing, tax preparation, and consulting for clients ranging from individuals to multinational corporations. As a public accounting J-1 student intern, you can expect to work on tasks such as:

• Assisting with audits by verifying financial records and ensuring compliance with regulations
• Preparing and reviewing tax documents for clients
• Researching tax laws and identifying potential savings for businesses
• Supporting senior accountants with client presentations and reports

Public accounting internships are excellent if you’re keen to gain hands-on experience with a variety of clients and industries. They also serve as a stepping stone to earning certifications such as the CPA (Certified Public Accountant).

Corporate Finance Internships

Corporate finance roles focus on managing a company’s financial health and making strategic decisions to maximize profitability. Internships in this area are available at organizations of all sizes, from small startups to large multinational corporations. With a corporate finance J-1 internship, your responsibilities may include:

• Analyzing financial statements to assess the company’s performance
• Assisting in budgeting and forecasting processes
• Supporting the development of financial models to evaluate investment opportunities
• Conducting market research to inform business strategies

Corporate finance internships offer a chance to understand the inner workings of a company and how financial decisions impact its overall success.Investment Banking InternshipsInvestment banking internships are among the most competitive and prestigious roles in the finance industry. These positions typically involve working with investment banks or boutique firms that help clients raise capital, manage mergers and acquisitions, or trade securities. Interns in investment banking often work on tasks such as:

• Conducting financial analysis and creating valuation models
• Preparing pitch books and presentations for potential deals
• Researching industries and companies to identify investment opportunities
• Assisting senior bankers in client meetings and deal execution

While investment banking internships are demanding, they provide exposure to high-stakes financial transactions and can fast-track your career in finance.

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Other Opportunities

Beyond traditional accounting and finance roles, there are numerous specialized paid internships that cater to specific interests, including:

• Fintech internships: Work with cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, and financial apps to revolutionize the finance industry.
• Risk management internships: Help companies identify and mitigate financial risks to ensure long-term stability.
• Tax consulting internships: Dive deeper into the complexities of tax laws and strategies to optimize clients’ financial outcomes.
• Wealth management internships: Assist financial advisors in creating personalized investment plans for high-net-worth individuals.
• Nonprofit and government finance internships: Manage budgets and funding for organizations dedicated to public service and community development.

These opportunities allow you to explore niche areas of the accounting and finance industry, helping you identify the career path that aligns best with your skills and aspirations.

What to Expect as an Accounting and Finance Intern in the U.S.

The exact roles and responsibilities of your internship abroad will depend on the company’s specific needs. It’s important to read job descriptions carefully and ask questions during your interviews with host companies to make sure you have a clear understanding of what your day-to-day tasks will look like, and that they align with your goals and interests. Here’s an idea of what you can expect from an accounting or finance internship in the U.S.

Common Responsibilities and Tasks

Accounting and finance internships often combine a mix of technical, analytical, and administrative work. While your exact responsibilities will depend on the company’s internship program, here are some common tasks:

• Financial analysis: Reviewing financial statements, identifying trends, and providing insights to support decision-making processes.
• Budgeting and forecasting: Assisting in the creation and refinement of budgets and forecasts to guide the company’s financial planning.
• Tax preparation and compliance: Supporting the preparation of tax filings and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Data entry and reconciliation: Managing spreadsheets, entering data into accounting software, and reconciling accounts to ensure accuracy.
• Market research: Analyzing industry trends and competitive landscapes to inform strategic recommendations.
• Client support: Preparing reports, attending client meetings, or assisting with presentations.

These tasks sharpen your technical skills and help you gain a better understanding of the areas of accounting and finance that interest and motivate you—one of the biggest benefits of international internships for college students. 

How Much Can You Earn as an Accounting and Finance Intern in the U.S.?

U.S. internships for international students are all about gaining experience, so your salary isn’t the most important element, but you still need to know what to expect in terms of compensation. Your earnings can vary based on location, company size, and the type of internship. On average, accounting and finance interns earn between $15 to $24 per hour (or $32,000 to $50,000 annually).

At large firms like the Big Four (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG), hourly rates may fall on the higher end of the spectrum, with some interns earning $30 or more per hour. In smaller firms or less competitive markets, rates may range from $15 to $20 per hour. The average salary for an accounting or finance intern in the U.S. is around $37,674 per year, or $18 per hour. 

You’ll also be required to pay taxes on your earnings. Use our intern pay calculator to calculate what an hourly rate gives you in take-home earnings after taxes.

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How to Apply for Accounting and Finance Internships in the U.S.

We’ve talked about the J-1 visa, the types of accounting and finance internships on offer, and what you can expect to earn, but how do you actually lock in a U.S. internship opportunity in the accounting and finance sector? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to apply for an internship in the USA. 

Step 1: Research Potential Opportunities

Start by identifying companies or organizations that match your career goals. Look for internship programs in your preferred sector, such as public accounting, corporate finance, or investment banking. Platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and company websites are great places to search for openings, or you can use our database to search internships with our prestigious partners.

Step 2: Polish Your Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are key components of your application. Highlight relevant coursework, certifications, and prior experience. Tailor your documents to each role, emphasizing the skills and experiences that align with the job description. It will take a bit longer, but it gives you a much better chance of securing the internship of your dreams. 

Step 3: Prepare for Interviews

Once you’ve submitted applications, be ready to interview. Research common questions for accounting and finance roles, practice your responses, and prepare to showcase your skills and knowledge. Make sure you also have some questions ready to ask during your interviews—it shows that you’re enthusiastic and engaged. 

Step 4: Apply for the J-1 Visa

Once you’ve received an internship offer, you can start the J-1 visa application process. Contact Intrax Global Internships here and we’ll help you understand the steps involved. You’ll need to complete an application, upload your documents, and let us take care of the rest! Once you have your DS-2019 (which we issue within two weeks of receiving everything we need from you and the host company), you can schedule your visa interview to secure your internship visa for the USA. 

Secure Your Dream Accounting and Finance Internship with Intrax Global Internships!

An accounting and finance internship in the United States helps you gain real-world experience, build your professional network, and improve your career prospects. With the U.S. being a global financial hub, you’ll have the chance to develop valuable skills that will serve you throughout your working life. 

We know that navigating the process, especially the J-1 visa, isn’t easy—that’s why we’re here! Intrax Global Internships can act as your J-1 visa sponsor and help you secure your visa and internship. We’ll make sure your paperwork is taken care of so you can focus on what’s really important: kickstarting your career! 

Turn your dream accounting and finance internship into a reality—get started today with Intrax Global Internships. 

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