Accounting Intern Interview Questions and Answers

Sample Interview Questions

• Why did you choose accounting as your field of study?

  Purpose: To understand the candidate's motivation and passion for accounting.

  Sample answer

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  I've always enjoyed working with numbers and solving puzzles, and accounting seemed like the perfect way to combine those interests into a career.

• Can you explain the difference between accounts payable and accounts receivable?

  Purpose: To gauge the candidate's basic accounting knowledge.

  Sample answer

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  Accounts payable are the amounts a company owes to its suppliers, while accounts receivable are the amounts owed to the company by its customers.

• How do you stay organized when managing multiple tasks?

  Purpose: To assess the candidate's organizational skills and ability to multitask.

  Sample answer

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  I use a combination of to-do lists and calendar reminders to keep track of deadlines and prioritize my tasks effectively.

• What accounting software are you familiar with? ️

  Purpose: To determine the candidate's technical skills and software proficiency.

  Sample answer

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  I have experience with QuickBooks and Excel, and I'm eager to learn any new software that the company uses.

• Describe a time when you had to solve a difficult problem. How did you approach it?

  Purpose: To evaluate the candidate's problem-solving skills and critical thinking.

  Sample answer

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  In a group project, we faced a discrepancy in our financial data. I suggested we double-check our entries and found a data entry error, which we corrected to balance the accounts.

• How do you ensure accuracy in your work?

  Purpose: To understand the candidate's attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

  Sample answer

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  I double-check my work and use tools like Excel formulas to verify calculations. I also review my work with a fresh perspective after a short break.

• What do you enjoy most about working with numbers?

  Purpose: To gauge the candidate's enthusiasm for accounting tasks.

  Sample answer

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  I love the satisfaction of finding the right solution and seeing everything balance perfectly. It's like solving a puzzle!

• How do you handle tight deadlines? ⏰

  Purpose: To assess the candidate's time management skills and ability to work under pressure.

  Sample answer

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  I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, and I stay focused by breaking down larger tasks into manageable steps.

• Can you give an example of how you worked effectively in a team?

  Purpose: To evaluate the candidate's teamwork and collaboration skills.

  Sample answer

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  In a group project, I took the lead in organizing our tasks and ensured everyone was on the same page. We communicated regularly and supported each other to meet our deadlines.

• What do you hope to learn from this internship?

  Purpose: To understand the candidate's goals and eagerness to learn.

  Sample answer

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  I hope to gain hands-on experience in accounting practices, learn from experienced professionals, and develop my skills in a real-world setting.