According to the Joint Graduate Employment Survey, 84.4% of fresh business graduates secured full-time employment in 2024, compared with 88.3% in 2023 and 91% in 2022. As the employment rate declines and hiring slows, organisations are selective when hiring fresh graduates.
Employers hiring for finance roles in Singapore look for graduates who demonstrate a mix of relevant skills.
- Data Analysis & Interpretation Skills
Finance roles have become increasingly data-driven. Employers want graduates who not only prepare reports but also analyse financial data, identify trends, and interpret them to make recommendations that support business decisions.
Industry observations reinforce this expectation. Claudia Wong, a senior consultant, noted that data fluency and the ability to interpret insights are increasingly valuable as banks integrate analytics into their core processes. The BA in Accounting and Finance at LSBF Singapore includes modules that introduce students to analytical concepts used in modern finance roles.
- Digital Accounting Tools
Finance teams today rely on digital platforms for reporting, reconciliation, and streamlining day-to-day workflows. As a result, employers increasingly expect graduates to be familiar with modern, cloud-based financial tools.
Good-to-know tools:
Graduates entering accounting and finance roles in Singapore may encounter a range of digital platforms, depending on the organisation. These include cloud-based accounting systems (e.g., Xero and QuickBooks), enterprise platforms (e.g., SAP), and data and reporting tools (e.g., Power BI).
Familiarity with these tools may not be an entry-level requirement, but understanding how they are used can help graduates adapt more quickly to workplace processes.
- MAS Regulations and Compliance
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) sets the regulatory framework governing the financial sector. Foundational knowledge of regulations can benefit graduates seeking opportunities in banking and finance.
Employers do not expect recent graduates to be compliance specialists. However, familiarity with core regulatory areas such as anti-money laundering (AML) and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT) is often viewed as an advantage, as these principles influence routine processes across accounting and finance departments.
Financial reporting standards and internal controls also play an important role in Singapore’s regulatory environment. Internal controls help organisations maintain accurate records, manage risk, and meet regulatory expectations. This regulatory awareness is relevant not only to banks and financial institutions but also to fintech companies and SMEs operating in Singapore.
- Soft Skills in Accounting and Finance
Graduates may need to collaborate with teams, interact with clients, and navigate challenging situations in the workplace. Employers want graduates not only to produce findings but also to communicate them clearly so they are easily understood, as accounting roles often extend beyond working with numbers alone.
In addition to communication skills, adaptability and professionalism are also essential. Accounting and finance roles continue to evolve amid changing regulations, technologies, and workplace expectations.
- Continuous Learning Pathways in Accounting and Finance
Many professionals choose to expand their skills in accounting and finance as their careers progress. Employers recognise professional certifications such as ACCA and the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ), which can be pursued alongside full-time employment and support structured career development. LSBF Singapore offers preparatory programmes for these professional qualifications, enabling graduates to build recognised accounting knowledge aligned with industry standards and long-term career goals.
Kickstart Your Accounting and Finance Career with LSBF Singapore
For students planning their next step in accounting and finance, the choice of academic foundation needs careful consideration. The BA in Accounting and Finance at LSBF Singapore is designed to provide students with a structured foundation in accounting and finance, supported by practical learning and industry-relevant perspectives. The programme focuses on:
- Developing core theoretical and practical knowledge in accounting and finance within a global business context
- Building analytical and professional skills relevant to complex business environments
- Introducing professional values and ethical considerations expected in accounting and finance roles
- Familiarising students with current technical language and practices used in the accounting profession
Employer expectations have shifted due to technological and market disruptions. Students preparing for accounting and finance roles in Singapore are expected to demonstrate not only a strong academic foundation but also confidence in using digital tools in their daily work. Choosing an academic programme that integrates technology with applied learning can help students prepare for the demands of the profession and future career progression.
FAQs
- Is coding important for finance graduates entering data-driven roles?
Yes, coding is relevant for finance graduates entering data-driven roles. However, graduates are not expected to be software engineers. Functional competence is sufficient.
The BA in Accounting and Finance at LSBF Singapore develops digital fluency by introducing students to technology-enabled financial analysis and data interpretation commonly used in the field.
- What entry-level roles are available for accounting and finance graduates in Singapore?
There is a wide range of entry-level roles available to accounting and finance graduates in Singapore, including Accounts Assistant, Junior Accountant, Accounts Executive, Audit Associate, Finance Executive, and Tax Associate.
Source: Jobstreet
- How can fresh graduates stand out when applying for finance jobs in Singapore?
Fresh graduates can stand out in Singapore’s competitive job market by building practical skills, gaining relevant experience, and showing a strong learning mindset. At LSBF Singapore, students are supported by career services that guide job-search strategies.
