20 Best Summer 2026 Accounting Internships in Illinois: Complete Guide to Landing Top Opportunities

Illinois stands as one of the Midwest’s premier destinations for accounting internships, with Chicago serving as a major financial hub and home to numerous Fortune 500 companies. As the application season for Summer 2026 internships approaches, aspiring accounting professionals have unprecedented opportunities to launch their careers in the Prairie State.

From the bustling financial district of Chicago to emerging business centers in Rockford, Peoria, and Springfield, Illinois offers diverse accounting internship programs that cater to students at various academic levels. Whether you’re pursuing public accounting, corporate finance, or specialized areas like forensic accounting, Illinois provides pathways to professional success.

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Why Choose Illinois for Your Accounting Internship?

Illinois boasts a robust business ecosystem with headquarters of major corporations, leading accounting firms, and innovative startups. The state’s central location provides interns with exposure to clients across multiple industries, from manufacturing and agriculture to technology and healthcare. Chicago alone hosts over 150 accounting internship opportunities, making it a competitive but rewarding market for ambitious students.

The state’s business-friendly environment, combined with its strong educational institutions like University of Illinois, Northwestern University, and DePaul University, creates a dynamic internship landscape where students can gain practical experience while building professional networks that extend throughout the Midwest.

Top 15+ Summer 2026 Accounting Internship Programs in Illinois

Big Four Accounting Firms

1. PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) – Assurance & Tax Internship

Location: 130 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10-12 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $28.50 – $45.00 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid model with significant in-person requirements
Requirements: Minimum 3.3 GPA, pursuing Bachelor’s or Master’s in Accounting/Finance, completion of intermediate accounting courses
Benefits: Mentorship program, client exposure, professional development workshops, potential full-time offer
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in September 2025

2. Deloitte – Audit & Assurance Summer Internship

Location: 111 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10-12 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $27-44 per hour plus housing assistance
Type: Paid, Primarily in-person with remote work flexibility
Requirements: Minimum 3.2 GPA, accounting or business major, strong analytical skills
Benefits: Global client exposure, leadership development, comprehensive training program
Application Deadline: Early September 2025

3. EY (Ernst & Young) – Tax & Assurance Internship

Location: 155 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10-12 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $29-43 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid working arrangement
Requirements: Minimum 3.0 GPA, completion of intermediate accounting, commitment to CPA pursuit
Benefits: Technology training, global mobility opportunities, innovation projects
Application Deadline: Applications open in September

4. KPMG – Audit Summer Internship Program

Location: 200 East Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601
Duration: 10-12 weeks (Summer 2026)
Compensation: $26-42 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person with flexible work options
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, strong communication skills
Benefits: Client interaction, professional certification support, diverse industry exposure
Application Deadline: Typically opens in September

Mid-Tier and Regional Firms

5. Grant Thornton – Assurance & Tax Internship

Location: 171 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60601
Duration: 10-12 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $25-37 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid model
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, leadership potential
Benefits: Smaller team environment, direct partner interaction, accelerated learning
Application Deadline: October 2025

6. BDO USA – Audit & Assurance Summer Internship

Location: 330 North Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611
Duration: 10-12 weeks
Compensation: $24-35 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person with remote options
Requirements: Pursuing Bachelor’s in Accounting, minimum 3.0 GPA
Benefits: Personalized career coaching, technology training, diverse client base

7. Forvis Mazars (formerly BKD) – Tax Summer Internship

Location: 1 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $23-32 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 2.8 GPA, tax coursework preferred
Benefits: Exposure to various industries, entry-level associate responsibilities, senior staff mentorship

8. CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) – Audit & Tax Internship

Location: 190 South LaSalle Street, Chicago, IL 60603
Duration: 10-12 weeks
Compensation: $22-30 per hour
Type: Paid, Primarily in-person
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 2.9 GPA, strong work ethic
Benefits: Diverse client portfolio, small firm culture, growth opportunities

9. RSM US – Assurance Services Internship

Location: 30 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10 weeks (Summer 2026)
Compensation: $24-33 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid model
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, relevant coursework
Benefits: Middle market focus, technology integration, professional development

Corporate Accounting Internships

10. Abbott Laboratories – Finance Internship

Location: 100 Abbott Park Road, Abbott Park, IL 60064
Duration: 12 weeks (May – August 2026)
Compensation: $25-38 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid working arrangement
Requirements: Finance/Accounting major, minimum 3.2 GPA, analytical skills
Benefits: Healthcare industry exposure, innovation projects, global opportunities

Summer 2026 Accounting Internships in Illinois

11. Caterpillar Inc. – Financial Leadership Program Internship

Location: 510 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield, IL 60015
Duration: 12 weeks
Compensation: $27-42 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person with some remote work
Requirements: Accounting/Finance major, minimum 3.3 GPA, leadership experience
Benefits: Manufacturing industry exposure, rotation opportunities, mentorship program

12. McDonald’s Corporation – Accounting & Finance Internship

Location: 110 North Carpenter Street, Chicago, IL 60607
Duration: 10-12 weeks
Compensation: $26-40 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid model
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.2 GPA, strong analytical skills
Benefits: Global brand exposure, restaurant industry insights, corporate strategy involvement

13. Allstate Insurance – Finance Internship Program

Location: 2775 Sanders Road, Northbrook, IL 60062
Duration: 10 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $24-36 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid working arrangement
Requirements: Finance/Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, insurance interest
Benefits: Insurance industry knowledge, actuarial exposure, data analytics training

14. Boeing – Finance Summer Internship

Location: 100 North Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 12 weeks
Compensation: $28-45 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person with remote flexibility
Requirements: Accounting/Finance major, minimum 3.2 GPA, U.S. citizenship required
Benefits: Aerospace industry exposure, government contract experience, engineering finance

Specialized and Regional Opportunities

15. Sikich LLP – Audit & Tax Internship

Location: 1415 West Diehl Road, Naperville, IL 60563
Duration: 10 weeks (Summer 2026)
Compensation: $21-29 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 2.8 GPA, strong work ethic
Benefits: Regional firm experience, diverse client base, technology focus

16. Wipfli LLP – Assurance & Tax Internship

Location: 1 Parkview Plaza, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
Duration: 10-12 weeks
Compensation: $20-28 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, Midwest focus
Benefits: Regional expertise, agricultural accounting exposure, community involvement

17. Plante Moran – Audit Summer Internship

Location: 1 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10 weeks
Compensation: $22-31 per hour
Type: Paid, Hybrid model
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, team collaboration skills
Benefits: Midwest focus, family business specialization, wealth management exposure

18. Crowe LLP – Audit & Tax Internship

Location: 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606
Duration: 10-12 weeks (June – August 2026)
Compensation: $23-32 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person with remote options
Requirements: Accounting major, minimum 3.0 GPA, CPA interest
Benefits: Public company audit experience, risk advisory exposure, technology integration

Illinois Regional Opportunities Beyond Chicago

Rockford Area

19. Wipfli LLP – Rockford Office

Location: 200 South Wyman Street, Rockford, IL 61101
Duration: 10 weeks
Compensation: $19-26 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person
Benefits: Manufacturing client focus, close mentorship, cost-effective living

Peoria Area

20. Caterpillar Inc. – Peoria Finance Internship

Location: 501 Southwest Jefferson Avenue, Peoria, IL 61629
Duration: 12 weeks
Compensation: $26-39 per hour
Type: Paid, In-person
Benefits: Manufacturing finance, global supply chain exposure, heavy machinery industry

Compensation and Benefits Overview

Hourly Rates by Region and Firm Type

Chicago Big Four: $26-45 per hour
Chicago Mid-Tier: $22-37 per hour
Corporate Internships: $24-45 per hour
Regional Illinois Firms: $19-32 per hour

Additional Benefits Commonly Offered

Housing Assistance: Many firms provide housing stipends for out-of-state interns
Transportation: CTA passes or parking allowances in Chicago
Professional Development: CPA exam preparation, training programs, conference attendance
Networking: Professional organization memberships, alumni networks, industry events
Technology: Laptop/equipment provision, software training, digital tools access

Intern Success Stories and Testimonials

Jennifer K., Former Deloitte Chicago Intern: “My summer internship at Deloitte’s Chicago office was transformative. I worked on audit engagements for major retail clients and gained exposure to complex revenue recognition issues. The mentorship program was exceptional, and I appreciated the firm’s investment in my development. The experience directly led to my full-time offer.”

Michael R., Former PwC Intern: “PwC’s internship program in Chicago exceeded my expectations. Beyond technical skills, I developed client communication abilities and learned to navigate complex business environments. The intern project presentations were challenging but rewarding, and I left with confidence in my ability to succeed in public accounting.”

Sarah L., Former Abbott Laboratories Intern: “My corporate internship at Abbott provided incredible exposure to pharmaceutical accounting and global financial reporting. The rotation program allowed me to experience different departments, and I gained valuable insights into corporate finance that I couldn’t have obtained elsewhere. The mentorship was outstanding.”

David M., Former Grant Thornton Intern: “Grant Thornton’s smaller team environment allowed me to take on more responsibility than I might have at larger firms. I worked directly with partners and managers, gaining hands-on experience with client engagements. The firm’s focus on work-life balance was refreshing, and I learned that success doesn’t require sacrificing personal well-being.”

Application Strategy and Timeline

Key Application Deadlines

September 2025: Applications open for most Big Four programs
October 2025: Mid-tier firm applications typically due
November 2025: Regional firm and corporate program deadlines
December 2025 – February 2026: Interview process
March-April 2026: Offer notifications and decision deadlines

Essential Application Components

Strong Academic Record: Most programs require minimum 3.0 GPA, with competitive candidates having 3.3+
Relevant Coursework: Completion of intermediate accounting, cost accounting, taxation, and auditing courses
Professional Experience: Previous internships, part-time accounting work, or volunteer tax preparation
Leadership Involvement: Participation in Beta Alpha Psi, accounting societies, or student government
Technical Skills: Proficiency in Excel, QuickBooks, and other accounting software

Interview Preparation Tips

Technical Knowledge: Review accounting principles, financial statement analysis, and current accounting standards
Behavioral Questions: Prepare examples demonstrating teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership
Firm Research: Understand each firm’s culture, recent news, and client base
Illinois Business Environment: Familiarize yourself with major Illinois industries and economic factors

Living and Working in Illinois

Cost of Living Considerations

Chicago: Higher cost of living but proportionally higher compensation
Suburban Chicago: Moderate costs with good transportation access
Downstate Illinois: Lower cost of living, more affordable housing options
Transportation: Excellent public transportation in Chicago, car recommended for other areas

Professional Development Opportunities

Illinois CPA Society: Active professional organization with student chapters
Networking Events: Regular meetups, career fairs, and professional development seminars
Continuing Education: Proximity to top business schools and professional development programs
Industry Associations: Access to specialized groups in manufacturing, agriculture, and technology

Career Pathways and Advancement

Public Accounting Career Progression

Staff Accountant: Entry-level position post-graduation
Senior Associate: Typically after 2-3 years with CPA
Manager: After 4-6 years with client management skills
Senior Manager/Director: After 8-12 years with business development success
Partner: After 12-15+ years with substantial client portfolio

Corporate Finance Opportunities

Financial Analyst: Entry-level corporate position
Senior Analyst: After 2-3 years with specialized skills
Manager: After 4-6 years with team leadership
Director: After 8-10 years with strategic planning experience
Vice President/CFO: After 12+ years with comprehensive financial leadership

Specialized Career Paths

Forensic Accounting: Fraud investigation and litigation support
Tax Specialization: Corporate tax planning and compliance
Management Consulting: Business process improvement and advisory
Internal Audit: Risk management and compliance oversight

Industry-Specific Opportunities in Illinois

Manufacturing and Industrial

Illinois hosts numerous manufacturing companies requiring specialized accounting skills in inventory management, cost accounting, and supply chain finance. Companies like Caterpillar, John Deere, and Boeing offer unique exposure to industrial accounting practices.

Agriculture and Food Processing

The state’s agricultural heritage creates opportunities in agricultural accounting, commodity trading, and food processing financial management. Companies like ADM and Tyson Foods provide specialized experience in these sectors.

Technology and Innovation

Chicago’s growing tech scene offers opportunities in technology company accounting, venture capital, and startup financial management. The city’s fintech sector is particularly robust, providing exposure to innovative financial services.

Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

With companies like Abbott, Baxter, and numerous healthcare systems, Illinois provides excellent opportunities in healthcare accounting, pharmaceutical financial reporting, and medical device industry finance.

Networking and Professional Development

Professional Organizations

Illinois CPA Society: Offers student memberships and networking events
Beta Alpha Psi: Honor society with active chapters at Illinois universities
Institute of Management Accountants (IMA): Focus on corporate accounting and finance
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners: Specialized in forensic accounting

University Partnerships

Many Illinois universities maintain strong relationships with accounting firms, facilitating internship placements and career development. Schools like University of Illinois, Northwestern, DePaul, and Northern Illinois University offer excellent accounting programs with industry connections.

Application Tips for Success

Academic Preparation

Maintain strong GPA throughout college
Complete accounting coursework with distinction
Pursue relevant electives in your areas of interest
Consider pursuing the 150 credit hours required for CPA eligibility

Professional Experience

Seek part-time accounting roles during the academic year
Participate in VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) programs
Complete relevant internships in prior summers
Gain experience with accounting software and technology

Networking Strategies

Attend career fairs and firm information sessions
Connect with alumni working at target firms
Participate in accounting student organization events
Maintain active LinkedIn presence with relevant content

Interview Excellence

Practice technical accounting questions
Prepare behavioral examples using the STAR method
Research each firm’s culture and recent developments
Demonstrate genuine interest in the Illinois business environment

Future Outlook for Illinois Accounting Careers

The accounting profession in Illinois continues to evolve with technological advancement, regulatory changes, and shifting business needs. Emerging areas include data analytics, sustainability reporting, and cybersecurity risk assessment. Illinois internships provide excellent preparation for these evolving career demands.

The state’s diverse economy ensures continued demand for accounting professionals across multiple industries. From traditional manufacturing to emerging technology sectors, Illinois offers long-term career stability and growth opportunities for accounting graduates.

Conclusion

Summer 2026 accounting internships in Illinois offer exceptional opportunities for students to launch their professional careers in one of the Midwest’s most dynamic business environments. From prestigious Big Four firms in Chicago to specialized regional firms throughout the state, Illinois provides diverse pathways for accounting students to gain valuable experience and build professional networks.

The key to securing these competitive positions lies in early preparation, strong academic performance, relevant experience, and thorough application materials. With opportunities ranging from $15-69 per hour and comprehensive benefits packages, Illinois internships provide excellent compensation while offering invaluable professional development.

Start your application process early, leverage networking opportunities, and prepare thoroughly for interviews. The investment in a high-quality Illinois accounting internship can provide the foundation for a successful career in accounting and finance, whether you choose to remain in the Midwest or pursue opportunities elsewhere.

Illinois’s combination of business diversity, educational excellence, and professional opportunities makes it an ideal location for launching your accounting career. The experiences, connections, and skills gained during these internships will serve as valuable assets throughout your professional journey in the dynamic world of accounting and finance.