Resume Writing Tips for Accounting Intern

Introduction

In today’s competitive job market, even internships in accounting attract numerous qualified candidates. Employers use resumes to quickly gauge your capabilities, attention to detail, and fit for their role. A powerful resume helps you present your qualifications clearly and professionally. It increases the chances of passing Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and securing interviews. For accounting interns, demonstrating analytical skills, proficiency with accounting tools, and a proactive mindset through your resume is essential to stand out and launch your career on solid ground.

1. Resume Summary

Your resume summary is the first section recruiters read—it acts as your elevator pitch. For an accounting intern, craft a brief, impactful summary that highlights your educational background, relevant skills, and what you aim to bring to the employer.

Example: “Detail-oriented accounting student with proficiency in financial software including QuickBooks and Excel, strong analytical skills, and hands-on experience managing budgeting projects. Seeking to leverage accounting knowledge and data analysis skills in a dynamic internship with XYZ Corporation.”

2. Key Skills

List relevant skills prominently in your resume. Use a combination of technical and soft skills important for accounting roles. Including these boosts ATS compatibility and convinces recruiters of your abilities.

• Financial Reporting
• Bookkeeping
• Microsoft Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP)
• QuickBooks
• Data Analysis
• Attention to Detail
• Time Management
• GAAP Knowledge
• Problem-Solving
• Verbal and Written Communication

3. Achievements

Instead of simply listing responsibilities, highlight specific achievements that demonstrate your impact or growth during prior roles or projects. Quantify results wherever possible.

Example bullet point: “Streamlined client invoicing process using Excel formulas, reducing error rate by 15% and cutting processing time by 20%.”

4. Tailor to Job

Customize your resume for each internship application. Carefully analyze the job description and incorporate relevant keywords, skills, and requirements. This improves ATS ranking and shows you understand the role’s needs.

5. Tools

• Microsoft Excel
• QuickBooks
• SAP
• Xero
• Oracle Financials
• Google Sheets
• Tableau (Basic)
• Power BI (Basic)
• Microsoft Word
• FreshBooks

6. Metrics

• Reduced data entry errors by X%
• Decreased month-end closing time by X days
• Managed a budget of $X for a student organization
• Analyzed X number of financial statements
• Improved financial reporting accuracy by X%

7. Education

• Bachelor of Science in Accounting (Expected Graduation Date)
• Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Taxation, Auditing

8. Format

• Use a clean, professional layout with clear section headings
• Stick to one or two pages maximum
• Use standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman
• Avoid complex tables or graphics that ATS may not parse well

9. Concise

Be succinct but informative. Avoid lengthy paragraphs—instead use bullet points with clear action verbs and quantifiable outcomes. Keep your resume focused on accounting-related experience and skills relevant to the internship.

10. Bonus

• Include certifications or workshops, e.g., Excel certification, if applicable
• Add a link to your LinkedIn profile or personal website showcasing projects

Examples

• “Assisted in preparing monthly financial statements, ensuring 100% compliance with GAAP standards.”
• “Reconciled 50+ bank statements monthly, identifying discrepancies that saved the department $2,000.”

Conclusion

Crafting a resume for an accounting internship requires more than listing experiences—it demands showcasing your impact, leadership qualities, and analytical thinking. By focusing on quantifiable achievements, relevant tools, and tailoring the resume to each role, you position yourself as a motivated and capable candidate. A well-structured, ATS-optimized resume not only opens doors for interviews but also sets the foundation for a thriving career in accounting.