Summer 2026 Accounting Internships in Chicago: Complete Guide to Landing Top Opportunities in the Windy City

Chicago stands as one of America’s premier financial centers, hosting the headquarters and major offices of leading accounting firms, Fortune 500 companies, and innovative startups. For aspiring accountants, Summer 2026 accounting internships in Chicago represent unparalleled opportunities to launch careers in one of the nation’s most dynamic business environments.

The Windy City’s Loop district and surrounding areas house some of the most prestigious accounting firms in the world, offering internship programs that combine rigorous professional development with exposure to diverse industries including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and financial services. Whether you’re interested in public accounting with the Big Four, specialized services with regional firms, or corporate finance roles, Chicago’s accounting internship landscape provides pathways to exceptional career opportunities.

This guide explores the top Summer 2026 accounting internship programs available in Chicago, providing detailed information about requirements, compensation, locations, and the unique advantages of pursuing your accounting career in America’s third-largest city.

Why Choose Chicago for Your Summer 2026 Accounting Internship

Chicago’s central location, diverse economy, and rich business culture make it an ideal destination for accounting interns. The most sought after accounting internships are with the big four firms. These 4 firms are PwC (Price Waterhouse Coopers), Ernst and Young, KPMG, and Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu. All maintain significant presences in Chicago’s downtown area, providing interns with access to major clients across multiple industries.

The city’s accounting profession benefits from:

• Access to Fortune 500 headquarters and regional offices
• Diverse client base spanning multiple industries
• Strong professional networks and alumni connections
• Competitive compensation reflecting the market’s demand for talent
• Rich cultural offerings and professional development opportunities

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Top 15+ Summer 2026 Accounting Internship Programs in Chicago

Big Four Accounting Firms – Downtown Chicago Loop

1. PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Chicago – Summer Assurance/Tax Internship

Location: 191 N Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 (Chicago Loop)

Overview: PwC’s Chicago office, located in the heart of the Loop, offers comprehensive internship programs in assurance, tax, and advisory services. The program provides exposure to major Chicago-based clients across industries.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior or senior undergraduate students
• Minimum 3.3 GPA preferred
• Accounting, finance, or business major
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Must be eligible for CPA licensure

Compensation: $27-32 per hour (Chicago market rate) Duration: internships with “Summer” in the title will take place from June – July/August Format: Hybrid model with significant in-person client work Benefits: Housing stipend ($2,000-3,000), CTA transit allowance, professional development workshops, networking events in Chicago’s business district

2. Deloitte Chicago – Summer Discovery Internship Program

Location: 111 S Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 (Willis Tower)

Overview: Discover your impact with Deloitte’s internship opportunities for college students. Deloitte’s Chicago office in the iconic Willis Tower provides interns with exposure to major clients and cutting-edge business solutions.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate students (junior level preferred)
• 3.2+ GPA requirement
• Accounting or related business major
• Leadership experience valued
• Authorization to work in the US

Compensation: $26-30 per hour plus overtime opportunities Duration: 10 weeks (June-August) Format: Primarily in-person with flexible arrangements Benefits: Relocation assistance, professional wardrobe allowance, access to Willis Tower Skydeck events, executive mentorship program

3. Ernst & Young (EY) Chicago – Launch Summer Internship

Location: 155 N Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 (Riverside Plaza)

Overview: Our undergraduate and graduate internships and student programs can provide experiences, relationships and learning and development opportunities to launch your EY career.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior or senior undergraduate status
• 3.0+ GPA minimum
• Accounting, finance, or business administration major
• Strong academic performance in accounting coursework
• Commitment to CPA pursuit

Compensation: $25-29 per hour Duration: 8-10 weeks Format: Hybrid work model with downtown Chicago client exposure Benefits: Professional development stipend, Chicago networking opportunities, mentorship program, potential full-time offer

4. KPMG Chicago – Summer Internship Program

Location: 200 E Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601 (Aon Center)

Overview: KPMG’s Chicago office provides comprehensive internship experiences with major Midwest clients and specialized industry groups.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate juniors and seniors
• 3.0+ GPA requirement
• Accounting or business-related major
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Authorization to work in the US

Compensation: $24-28 per hour Duration: 8-10 weeks Format: In-person with remote work flexibility Benefits: Professional development workshops, Chicago Bulls/Blackhawks networking events, mentoring program

National and Regional Firms – Chicago Market

5. Grant Thornton Chicago – Summer Associate Program

Location: 171 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60601 (LaSalle Street Corridor)

Overview: Grant Thornton’s Chicago office focuses on middle-market clients, providing interns with diverse exposure to growing businesses and established companies.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior or senior undergraduate students
• 3.2+ GPA preferred
• Accounting major strongly preferred
• Strong communication skills
• Interest in public accounting

Compensation: $24-27 per hour Duration: 10 weeks Format: Hybrid work environment Benefits: Connecting with fellow interns and Grant Thornton staff at social events, professional development opportunities, Chicago Cubs networking events

6. BDO Chicago – Summer Internship Program

Location: 330 N Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 (River North)

Overview: Find internships in accounting, assurance, tax, advisory, marketing, finance and core business services at BDO. BDO’s Chicago office provides comprehensive exposure to audit, tax, and advisory services.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior undergraduate students
• 3.0+ GPA minimum
• Accounting or related major
• Strong analytical skills
• Commitment to professional growth

Compensation: $22-26 per hour Duration: 8-10 weeks Format: In-person with flexible arrangements Benefits: Professional development, mentorship, Chicago White Sox group outings

7. RSM Chicago – Summer Associate Program

Location: 30 S Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 (Downtown Loop)

Overview: RSM’s Chicago office specializes in middle market accounting and advisory services, providing hands-on experience with growing companies.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate accounting majors
• Junior or senior class standing
• 3.0+ GPA
• Strong academic performance
• Leadership experience preferred

Compensation: $23-26 per hour Duration: 10 weeks Format: Hybrid model Benefits: Client exposure, professional development, Chicago Bears season ticket holder events

8. Forvis Mazars Chicago – Summer Tax/Audit Internship

Location: 225 W Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60606 (Downtown Loop)

Overview: Generally, winter semester internships run from early-January through April 15th, and summer internships can typically run from early-June through mid-August.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior undergraduate students
• Accounting or finance major
• 3.0+ GPA minimum
• Strong Excel and analytical skills
• Interest in tax or audit specialization

Compensation: $21-25 per hour Duration: Early June through mid-August Format: In-person primary with some remote flexibility Benefits: Training programs, mentorship, Chicago Riverwalk networking events

9. CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Chicago – Summer Internship

Location: 1415 W 22nd Street, Oak Brook, IL 60523 (Chicago Suburb)

Overview: CLA’s Chicago-area office provides internship experiences focused on middle-market clients with personalized attention and diverse industry exposure.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate accounting students
• Junior level preferred
• Strong academic performance
• Excellent communication skills
• Team collaboration abilities

Compensation: $20-24 per hour Duration: 8-12 weeks Format: In-person with some remote work options Benefits: Comprehensive training, mentorship program, Cubs season ticket access

Regional Chicago Accounting Firms

10. Warady & Davis LLP – Summer Internship Program

Location: 1900 Spring Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523 (Chicago Suburb)

Overview: The Warady & Davis LLP internship and scholarship program is designed to jump start your career with real world, real work experience.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate accounting students
• Junior or senior standing
• Strong academic record
• Interest in public accounting
• Local to Chicago area preferred

Compensation: $19-23 per hour Duration: 10-12 weeks Format: In-person focused Benefits: Scholarship opportunities, personalized mentorship, local Chicago networking

11. Sikich Chicago – Summer Associate Program

Location: 1415 W Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563 (Chicago Metro)

Overview: Sikich’s Chicago-area office provides technology-focused accounting services with emphasis on digital transformation and emerging technologies.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate accounting majors
• Strong technology skills
• 3.0+ GPA minimum
• Interest in technology-driven accounting
• Communication skills

Compensation: $20-24 per hour Duration: 10 weeks Format: Hybrid work model Benefits: Technology training, professional development, Chicago Fire FC networking events

12. Plante Moran Chicago – Summer Internship

Location: 10 S Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606 (Downtown Loop)

Overview: Plante Moran’s Chicago office focuses on closely-held businesses and provides personalized internship experiences with significant client interaction.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior undergraduate students
• Accounting major
• 3.0+ GPA minimum
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Interest in closely-held business consulting

Compensation: $21-25 per hour Duration: 8-10 weeks Format: In-person with hybrid flexibility Benefits: Client exposure, professional development, Chicago Architecture Foundation tours

Corporate Accounting Internships – Chicago Headquarters

13. Abbott Laboratories – Finance/Accounting Internship

Location: 100 Abbott Park Road, Abbott Park, IL 60064 (Chicago North Suburb)

Overview: Abbott’s global headquarters offers comprehensive corporate accounting internship programs with exposure to international operations and healthcare industry expertise.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate students (sophomore, junior, senior)
• Accounting, finance, or business major
• 3.2+ GPA preferred
• Strong analytical skills
• Interest in healthcare industry

Compensation: $25-30 per hour Duration: 12 weeks Format: On-site at corporate headquarters Benefits: Healthcare industry exposure, global perspective, potential full-time offers, comprehensive benefits package

14. United Airlines – Financial Planning & Analysis Internship

Location: 233 S Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606 (Willis Tower)

Overview: United’s Chicago headquarters provides internship opportunities in financial planning, analysis, and corporate accounting with exposure to airline industry dynamics.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Junior or senior undergraduate students
• Accounting, finance, or economics major
• 3.0+ GPA minimum
• Strong Excel and analytical skills
• Interest in transportation/aviation industry

Compensation: $24-28 per hour Duration: 10-12 weeks Format: Hybrid work model Benefits: Travel benefits, industry exposure, professional development, networking with aviation professionals

15. Allstate Corporation – Summer Accounting Internship

Location: 2775 Sanders Road, Northbrook, IL 60062 (Chicago North Suburb)

Overview: Allstate’s headquarters offers accounting internships with focus on insurance industry practices, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate accounting or finance majors
• Junior or senior standing
• 3.0+ GPA
• Interest in insurance industry
• Strong communication skills

Compensation: $23-27 per hour Duration: 10-12 weeks Format: On-site with some remote flexibility Benefits: Insurance industry expertise, comprehensive training, mentorship program

16. Caterpillar Inc. – Finance Internship Program

Location: 510 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, IL 60015 (Chicago North Suburb)

Overview: Caterpillar’s Chicago-area operations provide accounting internships with exposure to global manufacturing, financial planning, and international business operations.

Requirements & Eligibility:

• Undergraduate students in accounting or finance
• Strong academic performance
• Interest in manufacturing/industrial sector
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Potential for international exposure

Compensation: $24-28 per hour Duration: 12 weeks Format: On-site primary Benefits: Global exposure, manufacturing industry knowledge, potential international assignments

Specialized and Boutique Firms

17. Chicago-Based Tax Specialization Firms

Various Locations Throughout Chicago Loop and Suburbs

Overview: Our Summer internship is a full-time internship paid at a rate of $32 per hour. Several Chicago tax firms offer specialized internships focusing on high-net-worth individuals, corporate tax planning, and specialized compliance.

Compensation Range: $18-32 per hour depending on firm size and specialization Duration: 8-12 weeks Format: Varies by firm Benefits: Specialized tax knowledge, personalized attention, networking within Chicago tax community

Chicago Market Advantages for Accounting Interns

Economic Diversity

Chicago’s economy spans manufacturing, technology, healthcare, finance, and services, providing accounting interns with exposure to diverse business models and accounting challenges. The city’s central location makes it a hub for companies serving national and international markets.

Professional Development Opportunities

The Chicago accounting community offers extensive professional development through:

• Chicago Chapter of Illinois CPA Society events
• Big Four alumni networks
• University partnerships with DePaul, Northwestern, University of Chicago, and University of Illinois Chicago
• Professional networking events throughout the Loop and surrounding areas

Transportation and Accessibility

Chicago’s excellent public transportation system (CTA) makes it easy for interns to commute to downtown offices from various neighborhoods. This internship is based out of our global headquarters in Downtown Chicago. You MUST be willing to relocate to the Chicagoland area, if applicable, for the duration of the internship program.

Cost of Living Considerations

While Chicago offers competitive internship compensation, the city provides better cost of living ratios compared to coastal financial centers, allowing interns to maximize their summer earnings while experiencing a world-class city.

Compensation Analysis – Summer 2026 Chicago Market

Big Four Firms (Downtown Loop)

• Compensation Range: $25-32 per hour
• Additional Benefits: Housing stipends ($2,000-3,500), transportation allowances, meal stipends
• Total Summer Earnings: $12,000-16,000+ including benefits

National Firms

• Compensation Range: $21-27 per hour
• Benefits: Professional development allowances, networking events
• Total Summer Earnings: $8,400-13,500

Regional and Local Firms

• Compensation Range: $18-25 per hour
• Benefits: Personalized mentorship, flexible scheduling
• Total Summer Earnings: $7,200-12,500

Corporate Internships

• Compensation Range: $23-30 per hour
• Benefits: Industry-specific training, comprehensive benefits
• Total Summer Earnings: $9,200-15,000

Work Format Considerations in Chicago

Most Chicago accounting internships offer hybrid work arrangements, balancing:

In-Person Requirements

• Client meetings in Chicago’s business district
• Team collaboration in downtown offices
• Training sessions and professional development
• Networking events throughout the city

Remote Work Flexibility

• Research and documentation tasks
• Virtual client meetings when appropriate
• Flexible scheduling for continuing education
• Work-life balance considerations

Testimonials from Chicago Accounting Interns

Sarah Martinez, Former PwC Chicago Intern

“Interning at PwC’s Chicago office exceeded every expectation. Working in the Loop gave me exposure to major clients across the Midwest, and the city’s energy was incredible. The networking opportunities were unmatched – I attended events at Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and various downtown venues. The experience directly led to my full-time offer, and I’m now a senior associate working with Fortune 500 clients.”

Michael Chen, Former Deloitte Chicago Summer Intern

“The Willis Tower office provided an incredible backdrop for my internship experience. Deloitte’s Chicago team welcomed me immediately, and I worked on engagements ranging from manufacturing to technology companies. The city’s diversity reflected in our client base, and I gained exposure to industries I never would have encountered elsewhere. The mentorship program connected me with professionals who continue to guide my career.”

Jennifer Rodriguez, Former Grant Thornton Chicago Intern

“Grant Thornton’s Chicago office offered the perfect balance of big-city opportunity with personalized attention. I worked directly with partners on middle-market clients, gaining responsibilities that exceeded my expectations. The firm’s location in the LaSalle Street corridor put me in the heart of Chicago’s financial district, and the networking opportunities were fantastic. I learned as much about business development as I did about accounting.”

David Kim, Former Abbott Corporate Intern

“Abbott’s corporate accounting internship provided incredible exposure to global operations and healthcare industry dynamics. Working at their headquarters in Abbott Park offered a different perspective from public accounting, and I appreciated the company’s commitment to innovation and corporate responsibility. The experience convinced me that corporate accounting aligned perfectly with my career goals.”

Amanda Thompson, Former BDO Chicago Intern

“BDO’s Chicago office culture was welcoming and collaborative from day one. The River North location offered easy access to downtown clients while maintaining a more intimate firm environment. I appreciated the exposure to diverse clients and the opportunity to work on both audit and advisory engagements. The experience prepared me well for my current role as a tax specialist.”

Application Strategy for Chicago Summer 2026 Programs

Timeline and Deadlines

• August-September 2025: Research firms and update application materials
• September-November 2025: Submit applications (most Chicago firms recruit early)
• October-January 2026: Interview season (many conducted in Chicago)
• December-February 2026: Offer decisions and acceptance deadlines
• June 2026: Program start dates

Chicago-Specific Application Tips

1. Demonstrate Chicago Connection

• Highlight any Chicago-area ties (education, family, previous experience)
• Express genuine interest in working in the Chicago market
• Research Chicago-specific clients and industries

2. Network Strategically

• Attend Chicago accounting recruiting events
• Connect with Chicago-based alumni from your university
• Participate in Illinois CPA Society student events
• Leverage Chicago career fair opportunities

3. Understand the Market

• Research major Chicago-based clients and industries
• Understand the city’s role as a Midwest business hub
• Demonstrate knowledge of Chicago’s economic landscape

Required Application Materials

Most Chicago programs require:

• Complete online application
• Updated resume highlighting relevant coursework and experience
• Cover letter expressing interest in Chicago market
• Unofficial transcripts demonstrating strong academic performance
• Professional references (academic or work-related)

Interview Preparation for Chicago Firms

Common Interview Topics

• Why you want to work in Chicago specifically
• Understanding of the firm’s Chicago client base
• Knowledge of Chicago’s business environment
• Behavioral questions about teamwork and problem-solving
• Technical accounting knowledge appropriate to your level

Interview Formats

• Initial phone/video screening
• In-person or virtual panel interviews
• Case study presentations
• Meet-and-greet events in Chicago

Living in Chicago During Your Internship

Housing Options

• University partnerships for student housing
• Shared apartments in intern-friendly neighborhoods (Lincoln Park, River North, South Loop)
• Subletting opportunities during summer months
• Firm-provided housing assistance or stipends

Transportation

• CTA monthly passes for convenient downtown commuting
• Divvy bike share system for short-distance travel
• Walking-friendly downtown area for lunch meetings and networking

Professional Development Beyond Work

• Chicago Chapter Illinois CPA Society events
• University alumni networking opportunities
• Professional association meetings and conferences
• Industry-specific seminars and workshops

Post-Internship Opportunities

Full-Time Conversion Rates

Chicago accounting firms typically offer full-time positions to 75-90% of successful summer interns, with specific conversion rates varying by:

• Individual performance during internship
• Firm hiring needs and growth projections
• Economic conditions and client demand
• Intern’s interest in accepting offers

Career Progression

Chicago’s accounting market offers excellent career progression opportunities:

• Diverse client exposure across multiple industries
• Strong alumni networks throughout the Midwest
• Opportunities for specialization in growing sectors
• Access to continuing education and CPA preparation programs

Industry Outlook and Future Opportunities

The Chicago accounting market continues to evolve with technology and changing business needs, creating opportunities in:

• Digital transformation and process automation
• Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting
• Data analytics and business intelligence
• Cybersecurity risk assessment and compliance
• International business and cross-border transactions

Chicago’s position as a technology hub, combined with its traditional strengths in manufacturing and finance, positions summer interns to enter a dynamic profession with expanding opportunities across multiple sectors.

Conclusion

Summer 2026 accounting internships in Chicago offer unparalleled opportunities to launch your professional career in one of America’s most dynamic business environments. From prestigious Big Four positions in the heart of the Loop to specialized roles with innovative companies throughout the metropolitan area, Chicago’s accounting internship landscape provides something for every career aspiration.

The combination of competitive compensation, comprehensive professional development, diverse client exposure, and rich cultural offerings makes Chicago an ideal destination for your summer internship experience. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of downtown public accounting firms or the strategic focus of corporate headquarters, Chicago’s accounting community offers the resources, mentorship, and opportunities you need to build a successful career.

Begin your application process early, leverage networking opportunities, and approach these prestigious programs with enthusiasm and professionalism. Chicago’s accounting firms are seeking talented, dedicated interns who can contribute to their teams while developing the skills and relationships that will define successful careers.

The Windy City awaits your talent and ambition. Your journey toward accounting excellence begins with securing one of these exceptional Summer 2026 internship opportunities in Chicago’s thriving business community.