Right now a major international bank is opening a graduate learnership in South Africa, and it could be your foot‑step into the world of finance. Citi is accepting applications for the South Africa Learnership Graduate Programme – Markets 2026 in Johannesburg.
What the programme is
The learnership is a one‑year, full‑time, on‑site development programme. Successful graduates will work in the Equities – Markets division, gaining real‑world exposure to trading, securities, and financial analysis. During the year, Citi will sponsor a postgraduate qualification that is relevant to your role.
Who can apply
- Hold an undergraduate degree with at least 65 % average, or a Master’s degree in any discipline.
- Have no more than one year of work experience (experience is not required).
- Show strong leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
- Possess an interest in building a career in financial services.
- An accounting qualification is an added advantage, but not mandatory.
What you will gain
- Practical experience in a global banking environment.
- Structured training that develops analytical, quantitative and market‑knowledge skills.
- Opportunity to apply for permanent positions at Citi while you are in the programme.
- Sponsorship for a relevant postgraduate qualification during your first year.
- Networking with senior professionals and exposure to both African and international markets.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Updated CV (including contact details, qualifications and any leadership or project experience).
- Tailored cover letter explaining why you want to work at Citi and in Markets.
- Full academic transcripts showing the 65 % (or higher) result.
- Copy of your South African ID document.
- Visit the official Citi recruitment portal and locate the vacancy with Job Req ID 26993885.
- Complete the online application, uploading the four documents above.
- Review all entries for accuracy, then submit.
Official application link: Apply Online for the Citi South Africa Learnership Graduate Programme 2026
Tips to improve your chances
- Research Citi: Know the bank’s main services, its presence in Africa, and recent news.
- Understand basic market concepts: Be familiar with equities, how stock markets work, and key economic indicators.
- Show genuine motivation: Explain clearly why the Markets division appeals to you.
- Highlight teamwork: Use examples from university projects, clubs, or volunteer work where you contributed to a group.
- Demonstrate analytical ability: Cite coursework, research, or competitions that required data analysis or problem‑solving.
- Stay informed: Follow reputable South African and global financial news to discuss recent market trends.
Next steps
If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents now and apply before the deadline. While waiting for a response, explore other finance‑related graduate and internship opportunities on the SETA SA platform. Remember, a single application is part of a broader job‑search strategy—keep applying and building your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the duration of the programme? It lasts for one year.
- Where is it based? Johannesburg, Gauteng.
- Which department will I join? Equities – Markets.
- Do I need a finance degree? No. Any undergraduate or Master’s degree is accepted if the academic result meets the 65 % threshold.
- Is work experience required? No. Up to one year is allowed, but it is not mandatory.
- Will I get a postgraduate qualification? Yes, the programme sponsors a relevant postgraduate qualification during the year.
- Can I apply for a permanent role? Yes, you may apply for permanent positions while in the learnership, though placement is not guaranteed.
- What documents must I submit? Updated CV, cover letter, full academic transcripts, and a copy of your South African ID.
- What if I have only a TVET N6 qualification? The advertised requirement is an undergraduate qualification with a 65 % result or a Master’s degree. TVET N6 holders should verify they meet the academic threshold or seek alternative programmes via the SETA SA platform.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the official Citi South Africa Learnership Graduate Programme – Markets 2026 vacancy published by Citi Careers. programme details may change; always verify the latest information on the official Citi recruitment site before applying.
SET A SA does not recruit on behalf of Citi, nor does it receive applications for this programme. Be wary of any individual or service that asks for payment to secure an interview or placement.
