Graduates

At Absa, we run challenging training programmes which allow candidates to explore all areas of the Group. Acceptance into the Absa Finance Training Department (AFTD) entitles a prospective trainee to develop business acumen, life skills and professional and ethical values. Important networks are also established with business unit leadership and line managers to prepare the trainee to plan future career paths.

As an accredited training organisation, we provide training for the South African Institute of Charted Accountants (SAICA), the Association of Certified Charted Accountants (ACCA) and the Charted Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA).

First year trainees will form part of the extensive Absa Graduate Development Programme (AGDP) that develops business acumen and will introduce the trainee to the vibrant Absa culture.

Every trainee will receive guidance on professional development through mentorship.

Entry Criteria

Entry Criteria for the South African Institute of Charted Accountants (SAICA) Programme

• You need to be in the final year studying towards your B.Com Hons / CTA or equivalent

Entry Criteria for the ACCA Programme

• If you are busy completing studies that will exempt you up to Fundamental Level at the end of the year of application

Entry Criteria for the CIMA Programme

• If you are busy completing studies that will exempt you up to the Managerial Level at the end of the year of application

Benefits for trainees

Our trainees are appointed on a fixed term training contract. Academic bonuses and increases may be awarded on an annual basis, based on individual and academic performance. Our trainees qualify for study and normal leave. Every trainee will receive guidance on professional development from a dedicated personal mentor.

We provide a challenging training platform, with rotations to ensure exposure to different technical areas and specialist business units where trainees are monitored and supervised by highly qualified professionals. Trainees also have the opportunity to explore various business units in the Group to establish which area of specialisation they would like to follow after they complete their training contract.

AFTD is proud of its recent academic achievements. In 2008, we had a success rate of 73% for the SAICA FQE 1 exam; and achieved a 50% pass rate for the FQE2, with one of the candidates holding the 10th position overall. In 2009, the pass rate for the FQE 1 was 100% and no candidates sat the FQE2 exam. In 2010, 60% pass rate for FQE1 and an 80% pass rate for FQE2.