Kirsten, E.Van Hoepen, R.Du Toit, Elda2025-11-032025-11-032025-07Kirsten, E., Van Hoepen, R. & Du Toit, E. 2025, 'Can MS Excel help finance students to excel? A study in student work readiness', South African Journal of Higher Education, vol. 39, no. 3, pp. 155-172. https://dx.doi.org/10.20853/39-3-6383.1011-3487 (print)1753-5913 (online)10.20853/39-3-6383http://hdl.handle.net/2263/105082Microsoft Excel is vital in the finance sector, and preparing students for the professional arena involves honing their spreadsheet skills. A study investigated the efficacy of a finance-centric Microsoft Excel workshop as an intervention to enhance students' skills and readiness for work. Pre- and post-intervention tests assessed students' perceptions and abilities. The results revealed a significant improvement across basic, intermediate, and advanced Excel skills, positively impacting students' self-perceptions. The majority recognized Excel as a critical job market skill. The study recommends integrating Excel assignments into finance modules to elevate skills and enhance finance knowledge retention, promoting self-directed learning.en© Higher Education South Africa.ExcelSpreadsheetSelf-efficacyWork readinessFinanceArticle