2026 Finance Internship Programs in Illinois
Chicago is one of America's premier financial centers, home to major exchanges, investment firms, and corporate headquarters. Finance internships across Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, Schaumburg, Evanston, Deerfield offer exposure to trading, asset management, corporate finance, and financial technology.
Finance in Illinois
Chicago is one of America's three premier financial centers, distinguished by its dominance in derivatives trading, exchange operations, and investment research. The Chicago Board of Trade and Mercantile Exchange make the city the global headquarters for futures and options markets. Northern Trust and Morningstar anchor a deep asset management and investment research ecosystem that provides world-class training for finance interns.
Market Highlights
- ●Chicago's financial services sector employs over 200,000 professionals, making it the largest employer outside of New York
- ●CME Group processes $1 quadrillion in derivatives trades annually, providing unmatched exposure to trading operations
- ●Chicago-based finance interns have a 65% conversion rate to full-time roles at major financial institutions
Employment Type: Internship
Education: Bachelor's degree (in progress or completed)
Experience: Entry-level / No prior experience required
Posted: February 2026
Apply By: December 31, 2026
Eligibility
- ✓Currently enrolled students or graduates from accredited U.S. universities (Class of 2024-2027)
- ✓Authorized to work in the United States (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or valid work visa)
- ✓Strong academic record with demonstrated interest in finance
- ✓Willingness to work on-site in Illinois or relocate with assistance
Top Finance Employers in Illinois
CME Group (Chicago)
Northern Trust (Chicago)
Morningstar (Chicago)
CBOE Global Markets (Chicago)
Baxter International (Deerfield)
Available Locations in Illinois
Chicago
IL
Aurora
IL
Naperville
IL
Schaumburg
IL
Evanston
IL
Deerfield
IL
Peoria
IL
Springfield
IL
Rockford
IL
Champaign
IL
Many programs offer relocation flexibility. If you don't see your preferred city listed, apply through PropelGrad and our recruiters will help match you with the right location.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Finance Internships in Illinois
What is the average finance intern salary in Illinois?
Finance interns in Illinois earn $22-$32 per hour. Trading floor and exchange internships at CME or CBOE tend to pay at the higher end, while corporate finance and accounting internships in the suburbs average $22-$27 per hour.
What makes Chicago unique for finance careers?
Chicago is the world capital of derivatives trading. Finance interns here get exposure to exchange operations, options pricing, risk management, and quantitative strategies that are simply unavailable in other markets. The city also has a strong proprietary trading firm culture.
Should I pursue CFA or CPA for a Chicago finance career?
It depends on your path. CFA is valued for investment management, research, and trading roles. CPA is essential for accounting and audit positions at the Big Four firms, all of which have major Chicago offices. Many Chicago finance professionals hold both credentials.