Entry Level Finance Jobs: Which entry-level finance jobs offer the best opportunities in 2025? Finance is known for its high salaries and career growth. Even entry level finance roles offer competitive pay compared to other fields.
While you may not land your dream job immediately, getting started opens doors to better opportunities. Most entry level finance jobs require a degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. An MBA isn’t essential at the start, but work experience can boost career growth later.
If you enjoy working with numbers, analyzing financial data, and understanding market trends, entry level finance careers can be rewarding. This guide explores the best-paying jobs in finance, required skills, salaries, and tips to secure finance jobs out of college.
Starting a career in finance opens the door to diverse opportunities, from corporate finance to investment banking and personal financial advisory. Whether you're looking for entry level finance jobs with growth potential or the best-paying jobs in finance, here are 10 promising finance jobs out of college that can help you build a strong foundation:
A financial analyst evaluates financial data, industry trends, and economic conditions to help businesses make informed investment and budgeting decisions. This is one of the most common entry level jobs for finance majors with strong career growth.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Analyze financial statements and economic trends
Develop financial models for forecasting
Provide investment recommendations
Assess risks and identify cost-saving opportunities
Education and Skills Required:
A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or economics
Strong skills in Excel, financial modeling, and data analysis
Strong analytical and communication skills
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $75,000–$100,000
India Average Salary: ₹5–10 LPA
Career Growth: Senior Financial Analyst → Finance Manager → CFO
Read More - What Is a Financial Planner?
One of the best paying jobs in finance, investment banking analysts work on mergers, acquisitions, and capital-raising activities for corporations and high-net-worth clients.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Perform market research and assess financial viability
Build financial models for valuation and investment analysis
Prepare reports and presentations for clients
Assist in structuring and executing deals
Education and Skills Required:
A bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or business
Strong financial modeling and valuation skills
Capable of handling high-pressure situations and meeting strict deadlines
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $85,000–$120,000
India Average Salary: ₹10–18 LPA
Career Growth: Associate → Vice President → Managing Director
Personal financial advisors help clients manage their money, plan investments, and secure their financial future. This entry level finance career is ideal for those interested in wealth management.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Develop personalized financial plans for clients
Provide guidance on investments, taxation, and retirement planning while tracking market trends to refine strategies
Build long-term relationships with clients
Education and Skills Required:
Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting
Strong interpersonal and sales skills
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification (preferred)
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $80,000–$100,000
India Average Salary: ₹6–12 LPA
Career Growth: Wealth Manager → Senior Financial Advisor → Portfolio Manager
Risk analysts assess potential financial threats and help businesses minimize losses. This is one of the best paying jobs in finance with strong demand.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Identify and analyze financial and operational risks
Develop risk mitigation strategies
Conduct market and credit risk assessments
Prepare reports for senior management
Education and Skills Required:
A undergraduate degree in finance, economics, or statistics
Knowledge of risk management software and data analysis tools
Keen attention to detail with strong problem-solving abilities
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $85,000–$100,000
India Average Salary: ₹5–14 LPA
Career Growth: Senior Risk Analyst → Risk Manager → Chief Risk Officer
A tax associate helps individuals and businesses file tax returns and comply with tax regulations. This finance job entry level role is ideal for those with a background in accounting.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Prepare and review tax returns
Research tax laws and regulations
Assist clients with tax planning and savings strategies
Ensure compliance with IRS and local tax authorities
Education and Skills Required:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
Knowledge of tax software and regulations
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification (preferred)
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $60,000–$80,000
India Average Salary: ₹3–7.5 LPA
Career Growth: Tax Consultant → Tax Manager → Head of Taxation
Credit analysts assess loan applications and financial data to determine the creditworthiness of individuals and businesses.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Evaluate financial statements and credit history
Assess risk levels for loan approvals
Prepare reports for lenders and financial institutions
Stay updated on economic and industry trends
Education and Skills Required:
A degree in finance, business, or accounting
Strong analytical skills and expertise in risk assessment tools
Strong decision-making abilities
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $65,000–$80,000
India Average Salary: ₹5–10 LPA
Career Growth: Senior Credit Analyst → Credit Manager → Chief Credit Officer
Budget analysts help businesses and government agencies optimize financial planning and spending.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Develop and monitor organizational budgets
Evaluate financial data and suggest strategies for reducing costs
Ensure compliance with financial regulations
Prepare reports for stakeholders
Education and Skills Required:
A undergraduate degree in finance, economics, or accounting
Strong financial modeling and forecasting skills
Attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $75,000–$90,000
India Average Salary: ₹4–16 LPA
Career Growth: Senior Budget Analyst → Finance Manager → CFO
Read More - Financial Literacy: All You Need to Know
Bookkeepers manage financial records, process transactions, and assist in payroll functions for businesses.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Maintain financial records and general ledgers
Process invoices, payments, and payroll
Reconcile bank statements and accounts
Generate financial reports for management
Education and Skills Required:
Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting
Proficiency in QuickBooks and accounting software
Attention to detail and organizational skills
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $50,000–$60,000
India Average Salary: ₹3–6 LPA
Career Growth: Senior Bookkeeper → Accountant → Finance Manager
Junior financial planners assist senior financial planners in developing financial strategies for clients. This role is ideal for those looking to enter the field of wealth management and financial advising.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Assist in creating personalized financial plans
Help clients with investment, retirement, and insurance planning
Conduct research on market trends and financial products
Create reports and presentations for client discussions
Education and Skills Required:
An undergraduate degree in finance, economics, or accounting
Strong analytical and interpersonal skills
Familiarity with financial planning software
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation (optional but helpful)
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $52,000–$75,000
India Average Salary: ₹4–8 LPA
Career Growth: Financial Planner → Senior Financial Planner → Wealth Manager
A treasury analyst manages an organization's cash flow, investments, and financial risk. This role is crucial for maintaining liquidity and ensuring efficient financial operations.
Roles & Responsibilities:
Track and oversee cash flow and liquidity management
Analyze financial risks and investment opportunities
Prepare treasury reports and forecasts
Maintain adherence to financial regulations and company policies
Education and Skills Required:
An undergraduate degree in finance, accounting, or economics
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Experience with financial modeling and forecasting
Knowledge of treasury management systems (TMS)
Salary & Career Scope:
US Average Salary: $70,000–$90,000
India Average Salary: ₹6–15 LPA
Career Growth: Senior Treasury Analyst → Treasury Manager → Director of Treasury
Note: The salary figures mentioned are based on online sources and may vary depending on factors such as experience, skills, job location, industry demand, and company policies.
These entry level finance roles offer excellent opportunities to gain experience and grow in the industry. Whether you're looking for finance jobs out of college or planning to build a career in entry level finance careers, these roles provide strong earning potential and career progression.
Starting a career in finance requires the right education, skills, and job search strategies. Whether you're looking for entry level finance jobs in corporate firms, banks, or investment firms, here’s how to improve your chances.
1) Earn a Relevant Degree:
Most entry level jobs for finance majors require at least a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, or business. Some roles may also accept degrees in statistics or data science if they involve financial analysis.
2) Gain Practical Experience:
Internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering at financial organizations can help you develop real-world skills. Many companies hire interns for full-time entry level finance roles after graduation.
3) Build Financial Skills:
Employers look for strong analytical and technical skills. Develop:
Financial analysis: Knowledge of balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow management.
Excel and financial software: Learn tools like QuickBooks, SAP, or Bloomberg Terminal.
Problem-solving: Ability to assess risks and find financial solutions.
Communication skills: Presenting financial data clearly to teams and clients.
4) Get Industry Certifications:
Certifications add credibility and improve job prospects. Consider:
Certified Management Accountant (CMA) – For management and cost accounting jobs.
Financial Modeling and Valuation Analyst (FMVA) – For financial modeling roles.
5) Use Smart Job Search Strategies:
Finding finance jobs entry level requires a strategic approach:
Leverage online job portals: Search on LinkedIn, Indeed, eFinancialCareers, and company career pages.
Network actively: Attend finance industry events, connect with professionals, and join finance forums.
6) Finance Jobs Right After College:
Fresh graduates can start with entry level finance roles like financial analyst, credit analyst, staff accountant, or junior risk analyst. These roles build essential skills in financial planning, risk assessment, and reporting, paving the way for long-term finance careers.
7) Stay Updated and Keep Learning:
The finance industry evolves rapidly. Stay informed about market trends, investment strategies, and new financial regulations. Continuous learning can lead to best paying jobs in finance over time.
Furthermore, to secure an entry level finance job in 2025, focus on education, certifications, and hands-on experience. Internships and networking can open doors to entry level finance careers like financial analyst or credit analyst, setting the stage for long-term growth in the industry.
The PW Financial Modeling Course with Deloitte Academy helps learners develop essential skills in financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and investment decision-making. This 3-month live program includes real-world case studies, hands-on projects, and industry-recognized certification.
Sign up for the PW Financial Modeling Online Course and start learning today!
Disclaimer: This is an informational post. PW (PhysicsWallah) does not guarantee job placements or specific career outcomes related to entry-level finance jobs or any job roles discussed in this content.