If you’re just starting your career, crafting an entry-level accounting resume that makes you stand out can seem daunting.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential components to include, share formatting tips, and discuss which skills and experiences can give you an edge.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or transitioning into accounting, this article will help you build an application that attracts the attention of hiring managers and showcases your potential.

Entry-level accounting resume examples

Entry-level accounting graduate resume sample

Entry-level accounting graduate resume template

Entry-level accounting graduate resume template
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Resume for entry-level accounting | Plain text

Olivia Taylor

Seattle, WA | (206) 555-1234 | oliviataylor@email.com

Professional Summary

Recent accounting graduate with a strong foundation in financial reporting, auditing, and data analysis. Skilled in using accounting software and financial modeling. Demonstrated analytical skills and attention to detail through internships and academic projects. Eager to contribute to a dynamic accounting team in an entry-level role.

Skills

  • Financial Reporting
  • General Ledger Accounting
  • Budgeting and Forecasting
  • Excel, QuickBooks, SAP

Education

University of Washington – Seattle, WA

Bachelor of Science in Accounting, GPA: 3.7

Graduated: May 2024

  • Relevant Coursework: Financial Accounting, Cost Accounting, Auditing, Corporate Finance

Experience

Intern - Corporate Accounting

Microsoft Corporation – Redmond, WA

June 2023 – August 2023

  • Assisted in preparing monthly financial statements and budget reconciliations, maintaining a 99% accuracy rate.
  • Supported senior accountants in auditing processes, improving efficiency by 10% by streamlining documentation.
  • Utilized Excel to manage and analyze data for quarterly reports, reducing reporting time by 15%.

Accounting Assistant

Seattle Humane Society – Seattle, WA

September 2021 – May 2022

  • Reconciled accounts payable and receivable to ensure accurate monthly financial records.
  • Managed donor contributions and recorded transactions, maintaining database accuracy for over 500 entries.

Languages

  • English: Native
  • Spanish: Conversational (written and spoken)

Strong sides of this entry-level accountant resume:

  • The summary is short yet impactful, immediately communicating relevant accounting skills and a goal-oriented attitude.
  • Internships are presented with specific achievements (e.g., “99% accuracy rate”), which adds credibility and demonstrates measurable impact in past roles.
  • The languages section adds value by showcasing bilingual abilities, which can be an asset in many workplaces with diverse clients or team members.
How to properly format a resume for an entry level accountant?
  • Font. Choose professional, easy-to-read fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman. A size between 10-12 points is ideal for the body, with headings slightly larger for emphasis.
  • Length. Keep it concise—ideally, one page is enough for entry-level resumes. Add bullet points and short phrases to communicate data quickly and effectively.
  • Spacing. Aim for one-inch margins and balanced spacing to ensure readability. Employ consistent spacing between sections to create a well-organized structure.
  • Sections. Use clear headings, such as Summary or Objective, Skills, Education, and Experience. This layout guides recruiters to the most relevant information quickly.
  • Format. Save as a PDF to maintain the layout across devices and avoid accidental alterations.

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Accounting student resume example

Sample entry-level accounting resume

Jack Hernandez

Austin, TX | (512) 555-9876 | jackhernandez@email.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jackhernandezaccounting

Objective

Motivated accounting student with a strong academic background in finance and accounting principles. Currently seeking an internship or entry-level position to apply analytical and problem-solving skills in a professional setting.

Education

University of Texas at Austin, TX

Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, GPA: 3.6

Expected Graduation: May 2025

  • Relevant Coursework: Principles of Accounting, Financial Statement Analysis, Managerial Accounting, Taxation

Academic Projects

Financial Analysis Project

University of Texas – Austin, TX

January – May 2024

  • Conducted a comprehensive financial analysis for a mock company, analyzing revenue streams, expenses, and profitability.
  • Developed a financial forecast model and presented findings to a panel of professors, receiving an “A” for accuracy and presentation skills.

Skills

  • Financial Data Analysis
  • Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP)
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail

Volunteer Experience

Treasurer - Student Accounting Club

University of Texas at Austin

August 2022 – Present

  • Managed club funds, including budgeting for events and tracking expenses, which led to a 20% increase in budget efficiency.
  • Coordinated with members and external partners to maintain transparent and accurate records.

Extracurricular Activities

  • University Finance Association – Member (2021 – Present). Participated in finance workshops, networking events, and case study competitions to enhance understanding of real-world financial applications.
  • Intramural Soccer – Captain (2021 – 2023). Developed teamwork and leadership skills while organizing practice schedules and leading team strategy.

Here are a few reasons why this example of an entry-level accountant resume will impress recruiters:

  • The opening statement is concise and clearly states academic background and eagerness to gain real-world experience.
  • In the absence of traditional work experience, the inclusion of a relevant volunteer position illustrates accounting-related duties, financial responsibility, and initiative.
  • Extracurricular activities demonstrate teamwork, leadership, and commitment, which give hiring managers insight into the candidate’s well-rounded skills and dedication.
Should I choose an entry-level accounting resume objective or summary?

Resume Summary

  • Ideal if you have relevant experience, such as an internship or strong academic performance.
  • It summarizes these accomplishments in a few impactful sentences.

Entry-level accounting resume summary sample:

Detail-oriented accounting graduate with a strong foundation in financial reporting and data analysis, supported by a 6-month internship in corporate accounting. Proven track record of accuracy and efficiency, seeking an entry-level role to contribute strong analytical skills and accounting knowledge.

Resume Objective

  • A good choice if you’re new to the field, transitioning careers, or have minimal experience.
  • It states your work goals and highlights the skills that make you a good candidate.

Entry-level accountant resume objective example:

Aspiring accountant with a background in finance and business administration. Looking to bring strong problem-solving abilities and a passion for accuracy to a reputable organization in an entry-level accounting role.

How to showcase your entry-level accounting resume skills?

The skills section is crucial because it showcases both the technical and interpersonal qualities that make you a strong candidate.

  • Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets directly related to a job or task. They are usually acquired through formal education, training, or hands-on experience, and can be tested or demonstrated.
  • Soft skills are personal attributes or behaviors that affect how well you interact with others and handle tasks. These are more difficult to measure but equally important for professional success.

Entry-level accounting hard skills:

  • Financial Reporting
  • General Ledger Accounting
  • Accounts Payable and Receivable
  • Tax Preparation
  • Budgeting
  • Data Analysis
  • Financial Software Proficiency (e.g., QuickBooks, Excel)
  • Cost Accounting
  • Reconciliation
  • Auditing Procedures

Soft skills for entry-level accounting:

  • Attention to Detail
  • Communication
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Time Management
  • Problem-Solving
  • Adaptability
  • Organizational Skills -Team Collaboration
  • Integrity and Ethics
  • Customer Service Orientation

Junior accountant resume template

Entry-level accountant resume sample

Entry-level accountant resume sample
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Entry-level accountant resume example | Text version

Megan Lee

Chicago, IL | (312) 555-4678 | meganlee@email.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/meganleeaccounting

Professional Summary

Detail-oriented Junior Accountant with experience in financial analysis and accounts reconciliation. Proven ability to manage complex data with a focus on accuracy and compliance. Proficient in accounting software, including QuickBooks and SAP. Committed to supporting financial teams with thorough accounting and budgeting skills.

Skills

  • Accounts Payable & Receivable
  • Financial Reconciliation
  • SAP, QuickBooks, Excel (Advanced)
  • Budget Preparation and Forecasting
  • Audit Support

Education

DePaul University – Chicago, IL

Bachelor of Science in Accounting, GPA: 3.8

Graduated: May 2024

Experience

Junior Accountant

Grubhub – Chicago, IL

July 2024 – Present

  • Prepare monthly reconciliations of accounts and performed data entry with 99.5% accuracy, minimizing financial discrepancies.
  • Analyze quarterly budget variances and recommended cost-saving measures, contributing to a 12% reduction in operational expenses.
  • Assist in preparing tax documentation and filings in compliance with local and federal regulations.

Accounting Intern

Grant Thornton LLP – Chicago, IL

January – May 2023

  • Supported teams in gathering and verifying client financial data, reducing audit time by 10%.
  • Utilized Excel for data analysis and reporting, aiding in financial forecasting for clients.
  • Collaborated with senior accountants to improve record-keeping practices, resulting in a 15% reduction in documentation errors.

Professional Affiliations

  • Illinois CPA Society – Associate Member (2023 – Present). Attended quarterly seminars and networking events focused on advancements in accounting standards and regulations.
  • American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) – Member (2022 – Present). Accessed ongoing professional development resources, including webinars on tax law updates and audit best practices.

This sample entry-level accountant resume is effective for several reasons:

  • The skills section includes specialized software and relevant terms, making it clear that the person has hands-on experience with accounting tools and processes.
  • Professional affiliations showcase the candidate’s commitment to growth through memberships in respected organizations.
  • The format enhances readability and quickly communicates relevant experience and abilities to hiring managers.
What educational credentials should I add to my entry-level accounting resume?

Education is often the most critical section of your application. It provides the foundational skills and knowledge employers expect in a candidate starting in the accounting field.

  • List your degree(s), such as Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Bachelor of Business Administration, or similar.
  • Include the name of the university or college you attended.
  • Add your graduation month and year or the expected date if still in school.
  • Highlight relevant classes, like Financial Accounting, Auditing, and Taxation, to show your knowledge in specific areas.
  • Mention any academic honors, scholarships, or awards.
How to organize the experience section in a entry-level accountant resume?

For junior positions, experience might include internships, part-time roles, volunteer work, or relevant coursework projects. Even if you haven’t worked in a formal accounting position, many of your activities and responsibilities can still demonstrate relevant skills.

  • Start with your most recent job and work backward. This structure helps recruiters see your latest and most relevant experience first.
  • Clearly state your role and the organization where you gained experience.
  • Bullet points make it easy for employers to scan your responsibilities quickly. Aim for 2-4 bullets per position, with a focus on tasks related to accounting.
  • Whenever possible, include numbers to show your impact.

If you don’t have direct accounting experience, emphasize transferable skills. For instance, if you worked in retail, you could highlight cash handling, customer service, or organizational skills that are valuable in accounting.

Conclusion

Starting a career in accounting requires not only foundational skills but also the ability to market those effectively on an application.

By tailoring your entry-level accountant resume to emphasize relevant coursework, certifications, and internships, you can demonstrate to employers that you’re ready to contribute and grow within their organization.

Use this guide as a starting point to refine your document, ensuring it highlights your strengths, aligns with job requirements, and gives you the best possible chance to start your career with confidence.

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