Graduate Trainee Programme 2026

About the role

Absa Group, one of Africa’s largest financial services groups operating in 12 African markets, runs a Graduate Trainee Programme across Corporate and Investment Banking, Retail and Business Banking, Risk and Compliance, Technology, and Markets. Application deadline 31 August 2026.

Responsibilities

• Complete an intensive induction at the Absa Group head office in Johannesburg.
• Rotate through three eight-month placements within your chosen stream.
• Deliver project work for senior business sponsors.
• Pass internal banking and product certifications.
• Participate in the cohort leadership development series including a community impact project.

Requirements

• Citizen of South Africa or another country where Absa operates (Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia).
• Bachelors or Honours degree (relevant to the stream) with a strong academic record.
• Graduated within the past two years.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
• Willingness to work in any Absa African market after the programme.
• Maximum age 28 at application.

Nice to have

• Internship in financial services, consulting, or technology.
• Professional certification progress (CFA, CA(SA), FRM).
• Quantitative or technology degree for Markets and Technology streams.

How to apply

Open the Absa careers page at the apply link, complete the online application by selecting your preferred stream and country, and upload CV plus academic transcripts. Online assessments, video interview, and assessment centre follow. Closing date 31 August 2026 for January 2027 cohort start.