Are you a fresh graduate eager to trade real‑world bonds and rates instead of just studying them? Citi South Africa is opening a one‑year learnership that could launch your career in the markets straight away.
What the opportunity is
The South Africa Learnership Graduate Programme – Markets runs for 12 months in Johannesburg. It is a full‑time, hybrid role inside Citi’s Markets division, giving you hands‑on exposure to fixed‑income and rates trading, risk analysis and a sponsored postgraduate qualification.
Quick overview
| Position | South Africa Learnership Graduate Programme – Markets, Johannesburg (2026) |
|---|---|
| Employer | Citi (Citi South Africa) |
| Location | Johannesburg, Gauteng – Hybrid |
| Employment type | Full‑time intern – Year‑long learnership |
| Start year | 2026 |
| Who should apply | Newly qualified university graduates interested in fixed income markets |
| Application requirements | CV, cover letter and full academic transcript |
| Apply | Official Citi application page |
| Equal opportunity | Citi provides reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities |
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Recent university graduate (2025‑2026) with a degree in economics, finance, mathematics, engineering or a related field.
- Strong interest in fixed‑income products such as bonds and interest‑rate derivatives.
- Ability to work in a fast‑moving trading environment – motivated, adaptable and numerically‑oriented.
- Good communication and teamwork skills for daily interaction with traders, sales and operations.
- Required documents: up‑to‑date CV, tailored cover letter and a full academic transcript.
What you will gain (benefits and skills)
- Practical experience on rates and bonds desks, supporting live trades.
- Training in risk analysis, market commentary and macro‑economic research.
- Opportunity to earn a sponsored postgraduate qualification relevant to markets.
- Mentorship from senior traders and exposure to Citi’s global network.
- Potential to apply for permanent positions within Citi after the learnership.
- Hybrid working model – office time in Johannesburg combined with remote work.
How to apply – step by step
- Download your latest CV. Highlight quantitative modules, internships, projects or any programming you have done.
- Write a cover letter of 250‑300 words. Explain why fixed‑income markets interest you and how your background fits a trading desk.
- Request a full academic transcript from your university (official, not a summary).
- Visit the official Citi application page and upload the three documents.
- Double‑check that your contact details are correct before you hit submit.
- If you are shortlisted, be ready to provide ID documents for eligibility checks and to schedule an interview.
Tips to improve your chances
- Show quantitative strength: List courses such as macroeconomics, financial markets, econometrics, statistics or any coding (Python, R, VBA).
- Demonstrate market awareness: Mention a recent local or global economic event and its impact on bond yields in your cover letter.
- Use concrete examples: Include class projects, trading simulations or internships where you analysed data, made recommendations or worked under deadlines.
- Make the transcript easy to read: Add a one‑line summary of your degree and overall grade in the cover letter.
- Prepare for assessments: Practice short market commentaries and explain a key economic indicator in plain language.
- Highlight teamwork: Provide examples of working closely with peers, presenting findings or coordinating tasks.
- Show curiosity and self‑learning: Reference online courses, webinars or market newsletters you follow.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria and are ready for a fast‑paced, hands‑on start in finance, submit your application today via the official Citi link above. Even if you feel nervous, remember many graduates start exactly where you are now – with a strong CV, clear motivation and a willingness to learn.
