International Financial Services Apprenticeship 
Are you interested in fast-tracking your career in international financial services? Do you want to start your career or upskill in the financial services sector, and get paid a salary while completing an apprenticeship?
If so, the International Financial Services (IFS) Apprenticeship, delivered by the National College of Ireland (NCI), may be of interest to you. It is a great way to begin your career in financial services, combining on-the-job experience with ongoing education so you earn while you learn.
We are delighted to partner with NCI to offer employment to apprentices undertaking the Level 6 Higher Certificate in International Financial Services.
What does the Apprenticeship involve 
This two-year programme is aimed at those who are looking to start their career in international financial services while developing their skills and expertise in the areas of regulation and compliance, products and services, and client communications and relationships. The programme will be two years in duration, where you will be placed in a relevant business area within the Central Bank to gain practical experience. It is a blended learning approach with four days working in the Central Bank and one day studying with NCI.
Apprentices will have a robust support structure in place, including a mentor, workplace buddy and a dedicated HR point of contact.
If you become a Central Bank of Ireland Apprentice, you will receive a full–time salary working with us, while attending NCI one day a week as you study for a fully–funded higher certificate qualification.
We will offer placements to apprentices on a two-year fixed-term contract, starting in August 2025. Please note the Apprenticeship Programme with National College of Ireland will start in September 2025, but we will be onboarding apprentices to begin working with us from August to allow some time to embed in the role before commencing college.
Working at Central Bank of Ireland 
By completing your apprenticeship with us, you will have the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute professionally and personally. We take great pride in our warm and friendly atmosphere, and the work we do for the public good. We serve the public interest by safeguarding monetary and financial stability and by working to ensure that the financial system operates in the best interests of consumers and the wider economy.
If you would like to learn more about life at the Central Bank, you can visit our careers page.
Working for the Public Good
Am I eligible to apply?
Minimum entry requirements are a grade H7/O6 or above in five Leaving Certificate (or equivalent) subjects. A minimum of grade O6 must be obtained in English. A minimum of grade O6 or a B2 or above in foundation level must be obtained in Mathematics.
Holders of a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Business (or equivalent) or QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Business (or equivalent) can apply for entry onto the programme. Non-standard applications will be also considered on an individual basis. Applicants under 21 will be assessed based on Leaving Certificate or equivalent.
Applicants must be at least 18 before starting the academic programme.
How do I apply?
You apply to the programme through the NCI’s portal.
Applications are now open until 31 March 2025.
If you have any questions, or would like to learn more, please contact [email protected]. 