Graduate CV template

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This is a smart and professional-looking graduate CV template tailored for roles in finance, auditing, and risk consulting. It includes example CV content for a Financial Services Graduate Trainee, showcasing relevant experience in internal audit, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance. Perfect for graduates looking to present their qualifications and skills clearly and effectively, this graduate CV example highlights placements, voluntary work, and key achievements to help stand out in competitive industries. An excellent choice for anyone seeking inspiration.

Filename: FreeCVDownload_12.docx

Note: this CV template does include the use of tables.

Content of this CV template

What to include in your graduate CV if you lack experience:

If as a graduate you lack placements or voluntary experience, you can still create a strong CV by focusing on transferable skills, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities. Here are some strategies to make a compelling graduate CV without placements or voluntary experience:

1. Leverage academic experience

• Highlight coursework, projects, and dissertations that relate to the job.
  Example: “Conducted a detailed analysis of corporate risk management strategies for a final-year project, focusing on compliance with FCA regulations.”
• Include modules relevant to the role, such as risk management, auditing, or financial analytics.

2. Showcase part-time jobs or internally relevant work

• Even unrelated jobs can demonstrate transferable skills like teamwork, customer service, or problem-solving.
  Example: “Developed strong attention to detail while processing transactions accurately as a cashier at [Company].”

3. Focus on extracurricular activities

• Involvement in societies (e.g., Finance Society, Debate Club) shows initiative and leadership.
  Example: “Treasurer of the University Finance Society, managing a budget of £5,000 and organising career events with industry professionals.”
• Highlight skills gained from hobbies like sports, blogging, or creative pursuits, as they demonstrate dedication and personal growth.

4. Demonstrate self-initiated learning

• Mention online courses, certifications, or self-study in areas like data analytics, risk management, or financial modelling.
  Example: “Completed the ‘Introduction to Risk Management’ certification by [Provider], developing knowledge of industry frameworks and compliance standards.”

5. Write a skills-based CV

• Organise the CV around key skills (e.g., communication, problem-solving, leadership) rather than work experience. Use examples from academic and personal achievements to demonstrate them.

6. Emphasise soft skills and strengths

• Employers value interpersonal and professional skills as much as technical expertise.
  Example: “Proven ability to manage deadlines and prioritise tasks, demonstrated through balancing a part-time job with full-time studies.”

7. Create a portfolio

• If applicable, develop a digital or printed portfolio showcasing work related to the field (e.g., financial models, case studies, reports).

8. Tailor the personal statement

• Use the personal statement to show passion for the industry and how academic background and skills align with the role.
  Example: “A motivated graduate in Accounting and Finance with a strong academic foundation in risk management and a keen interest in helping businesses improve operational resilience.”

Recruiters for graduate positions don’t expect applicants to have a lengthy work history, but relevant experiences can give you the edge. By focusing on transferable skills, academic achievements, and self-initiated efforts, you can still create a compelling CV that demonstrates your potential to excel in the role.

Click here to download our free Graduate CV writing worksheet.

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