How much does a Sterling Bank Graduate Trainee earn in Nigeria?

Sterling Bank Graduate Trainees participate in an entry-level programme designed to onboard and train recent graduates for a variety of bank roles. The traineeships provide exposure to banking operations, customer service, relationship management, finance, compliance, and digital solutions, enabling participants to build core skills and potentially transition into permanent roles within Sterling Bank Plc’s diverse business units.

The average salary for a sterling bank graduate trainee in Nigeria can vary based on the employer, location, and experience. The approximate figures are:

Note: These figures are estimates and can vary. Senior and specialized professionals may earn significantly more.

• Entry Level (0-1 year): 120000 - 150000
• After Program Completion (1-3 years, as Banking Officer): 180000 - 260000
• Experienced Staff (3+ years in Sterling Bank): 300000 - 420000

• Bachelor’s Degree (B.Sc. or HND): Required minimum for acceptance into Graduate Trainee programme; salary at entry level ranges from 120000 to 150000 monthly.
• Master’s Degree (M.Sc., MBA): Not mandatory but advantageous. Some Master’s holders may be assigned specialist tracks or considered for higher program placement with potential for accelerated progression and offers up to 160000 monthly as starting salary.

Becoming a Sterling Bank Graduate Trainee involves meeting educational standards, excelling in assessments, and demonstrating the right competencies for the banking sector in Nigeria.

1. Earn at least a Bachelor’s degree (minimum of Second Class Lower) from a recognised Nigerian university or a Higher National Diploma (minimum of Lower Credit) from a polytechnic accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
2. Complete your National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme and obtain a discharge or exemption certificate.
3. Prepare a professional CV and cover letter tailored to Sterling Bank’s culture and requirements.
4. Regularly check Sterling Bank Plc’s official careers portal or social media channels for Graduate Trainee application cycles.
5. Pass Sterling Bank’s online recruitment assessments, which typically test numerical reasoning, logical reasoning, and communication skills.
6. Successfully complete interview rounds, which may include assessment centres or group exercises.
7. Receive a conditional offer and commence the bank’s structured induction and training programme.

Applicants must possess a minimum of Second Class Lower (2:2) Bachelor’s degree from an NUC-accredited university or a Lower Credit HND from a NBTE-recognised polytechnic. Disciplines such as Accounting, Economics, Finance, Business Administration, and Computer Science are often preferred but not mandatory. Meeting the minimum educational requirement and completing NYSC are essential prior to application.

Professional certifications are not mandatory for Graduate Trainee positions, but obtaining certifications such as the Associate of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (ACIBN), or completing courses from the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), can enhance career mobility post-training. Many staff pursue the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) qualifications while on the job.

To improve your chances, create a LinkedIn profile reflecting your academic achievements, NYSC completion, and internship or volunteer experience. Follow Sterling Bank Plc’s official page for updates, connect with current employees, and engage with banking sector content to signal your interest and professionalism to recruiters.

See how a sterling bank graduate trainee's salary in Nigeria compares to other professions. This can help you understand your earning potential and career options.