Top private equity internships

(and how to land one)

Internships for finance majors and MBA students

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If you're a student majoring in finance, business, or a related discipline, or are currently pursuing a Master's in Business Administration (MBA), you'll find a wide range of valuable industry internships to consider. Participating in internships can be one of the most rewarding and impactful experiences during your academic journey. These opportunities not only provide exposure to the financial sector but also serve as a crucial stepping stone in your career development.

Through these internships, you'll have the chance to explore different departments, build your professional network, and develop essential skills by working alongside industry leaders. Private equity firms raise capital to manage private companies or acquire public companies and transition them to private ownership. A private equity internship offers hands-on experience in this field, where the main objective is to optimize operational efficiency, implement cost reductions, and sell portfolio companies for a profit. Interns gain direct exposure to multiple stages of the investment lifecycle. They may contribute to business development initiatives, assist with marketing strategies, and collaborate with internal analysts and external industry professionals. These internships cover the ins and outs of deal sourcing, due diligence, and portfolio management, making them an edifying opportunity for aspiring finance professionals.

Top private equity internships

If you're ready to explore private equity internships but aren't sure where to begin, look no further. This resource provides a comprehensive list of 8 internships in private equity, making it easy to discover the best opportunities available each term. To simplify your search, we've gathered essential details for each opportunity, including the internship program's website, office location, internship length, and eligibility.

We also provide Glassdoor ratings and direct links to company job boards, allowing you to research each firm's culture, current openings, responsibilities, and requirements before applying. These insights will help you differentiate between junior, advanced, and MBA-level finance internships, allowing you to target roles and companies that align with your interests and career goals.

As you begin applying to internships and casting a wide net, don't discount the importance of staying organized. We recommend keeping a simple spreadsheet or tracker that includes deadlines, application status, internship lengths, and hiring requirements to make your search and application process smoother and boost your chances of landing a top spot.

Steps to getting a finance internship

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1. Complete classes in business, economics, finance, and related fields.

Building a career in finance starts with developing a solid academic foundation in key areas, including business, economics, and finance. Many interns begin applying for roles in their sophomore year, which means that academic performance in the first two years of college can have a significant impact. Aspiring financial professionals should prioritize courses that cover essential accounting concepts, financial products, and regulations, the core knowledge required for most careers in finance.

Enrolling in advanced math and quantitative analysis courses demonstrates your readiness for critical thinking and complex problem-solving, both of which are highly valued by employers. Additionally, classes in financial data analysis or programming can set you apart from other candidates by equipping you with in-demand technical skills. The specific coursework recommended may vary depending on which finance role you plan to pursue, but a solid academic background is a crucial first step.

2. Join student organizations for young finance professionals

Getting involved in pre-professional organizations and finance-related student clubs is an excellent way to advance your career early on. Many universities offer clubs specifically for future business leaders, along with opportunities such as student-managed investment funds, which provide students with practical experience in portfolio management and investment strategies. These groups help you develop relevant skills, expand your professional network, and tackle real-world finance challenges. Participating in these organizations provides access to valuable resources and events focused on career development.

3. Polish your finance resume

Standing out in a competitive field requires a well-crafted finance resume that highlights your strengths and relevant experiences. Even for entry-level positions, it's important to present a polished and informative resume that showcases your skills and demonstrates your genuine interest. Begin with a concise professional summary at the top of your resume to quickly convey your goals and enthusiasm for the field. Be sure to include relevant coursework, technical abilities, certifications, and any relevant previous experience. A strong resume plays a key role in moving upward in your career and capturing the attention of potential employers.

Tips for creating an outstanding finance resume:

• Use a clean, professional resume template: There are thousands of online resources and guides on how to format a finance resume. Steer clear of overly colorful or image-heavy designs, as these can distract from your qualifications and appear unprofessional. Let your background and skills stand out.
• Include action verbs, quantifiable achievements, and specific examples: Showcase your impact in each role. Instead of vague statements like, "As Treasurer of a student organization, I handled income and expenses," use concrete examples: "Increased annual revenue by 20% through targeted fundraising and alumni engagement." Employers want to see clear, quantifiable results on your resume, whether from academic clubs or previous jobs.
• Proofread your resume thoroughly: Before submitting your application, review your resume for typos and formatting issues. Ask a trusted colleague or career advisor to review it as well. You can also use online resume checkers to ensure screen readability and improve your chances of standing out to recruiters.

Remember: Along with your resume, prepare a concise cover letter that highlights your most relevant experiences and explains why you're interested in the internship.

4. Have career conversations with industry professionals

We can't stress this enough: networking is a crucial step in getting a finance internship. Speaking with alumni or connecting with family members in finance can give you priceless insights into career paths and company cultures. These informational interviews help you understand what different finance roles entail, expand your professional network, and guide you toward the right internship opportunity.

5. Find (or create) opportunities

Research finance internship opportunities by identifying leading banks, insurance companies, and wealth management firms in your area or preferred location. Some might assume that finance internships can only be found in major cities, such as New York or Chicago. While urban hubs offer the most opportunity, especially in specialized fields like private equity, a top company's branch may be right in your backyard. While less common, you may be able to find an internship that's fully remote, offering added flexibility.

If you can't find suitable openings, consider creating your own internship opportunity, especially with newer funds or startups. Proactively reach out to hedge fund managers or finance entrepreneurs. They may be open to bringing on an intern once you demonstrate your value and initiative.

6. Request references in advance

Most finance internships require two or three professional references, and this is where your network can make a huge difference. Select individuals, such as former supervisors, professors, or mentors in the field, who can speak positively about your skills and work ethic.

7. Organize all necessary application documents

Carefully review each finance internship job description to ensure you have all the required documents ready, including your resume, cover letter, transcripts, and any additional materials. Keeping your application materials up to date ensures accuracy and streamlines the process.

8. Prepare for interview questions

Interviews can be one of the most nerve-racking aspects of any hiring process, especially when they involve multiple rounds (often the case in finance). Practice answering common interview questions on your own or with a friend to improve your confidence. Tailor your responses to the specific role and highlight your relevant strengths and enthusiasm for the position.

During interviews, emphasize your technical skills, prior experience, and passion for the finance industry. Use specific stories that demonstrate your professional growth, and always send a thank-you email to your interviewer within 24 hours of your meeting.

9. Track important application deadlines

Finance internship programs often have strict application deadlines and multiple steps in the process. Stay organized by tracking application due dates, interview schedules, and deadlines for any required assessments. This proactive approach will help you avoid missing out on preferred opportunities.

10. Evaluate your internship offers

If you're fortunate enough to receive multiple finance internship offers, evaluate each one carefully. Consider the responsibilities, available resources, company culture, and how each role aligns with your professional goals.

Aim to select an internship where you can gain meaningful experience and grow within a supportive environment. Finance internships may also offer professional development through workshops, networking events, or mentorship programs, which are other factors to consider. For more in-depth information about the role, speak with your prospective manager or connect with current or former interns for candid advice about the company's environment and expectations.

Securing a finance internship requires determination, strategic networking, and preparation, but it's an achievable goal with the right approach. Have your application materials ready and tailor each one to the specific position for which you are applying. By following these steps and meeting all the listed requirements, you'll greatly improve your chances of landing the opportunity that's right for you.

How to start a career in finance

An internship is a great launch pad for a long and rewarding career in the financial sector. Due to the relationship-driven nature of finance, success as an intern relies on striking a balance between assigned tasks and proactive internal networking. Actively participate in meetings, consistently seek feedback on your performance, and demonstrate your willingness to learn and connect with colleagues. Staying in touch with a previous manager or more senior co-worker after your term concludes helps you build lasting relationships within the industry. Professional references from respected individuals in the field can provide a serious edge for future job applications.

Beyond networking skills, understanding how to start a career in finance means planning for future advancement by meeting industry requirements. Advancing in finance often involves obtaining licenses that qualify you to engage in a range of financial activities. The Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam is a mandatory foundational certification needed before you pursue advanced credentials or apply for entry-level finance roles. Earning FINRA licenses, such as the Series 7 or Series 66, is required to advise clients, sell securities, and handle more complex financial products. For many positions in insurance, you'll also need to obtain a state-specific insurance license or finance certification to legally offer insurance products.

Participating in an internship provides you with practical experience and critical exposure to professionals who have firsthand knowledge of breaking into finance and maintaining a career. Their mentorship can guide you through licensing processes and qualification hurdles while offering insight on how to thrive and stand out as you advance further.