Working for the Big Four accounting firms: What's it actually like?

Let's meet the Big Four Accounting Firms

Working for one of the Big Four means real training, relevant industry experience and career development inside some of the most respected firms in the world. But they're not all the same - and knowing how they differ could make a big impact when choosing who to apply to.

So, with that said, let's meet them:

What’s it like to work for one of the Big Four?

Ask any student who's done a scheme at a Big Four firm, and they’ll tell you it's been one of their best experiences to date. The people are supportive. The environments are inclusive. The programmes and extra-curricular initiatives are designed to help you grow, professionally and personally.

This is where our job reviews come in. Hear from hundreds of interns, grads, apprentices and students who have attended insight schemes:

If you’re at university and thinking about completing some industry work experience, or you're about to leave school or college and considering your future - there’s an avenue for you. Read our full guide on how to get started in accounting.

Why you should choose Audit

Audit is one of accounting's most in-demand career paths - and one of its most misunderstood. It's not just numbers and spreadsheets; it's about asking the right questions, understanding how businesses work, and making sure the answers add up. Think financial statements, cybersecurity reviews, sustainability practices - audit puts you at the heart of making real business decisions.

Entry routes are more accessible than you might think, with apprenticeships, placements, and graduate schemes available to school leavers and university students alike. And what makes it even better is that you don't to be a math genius to apply!

Want to find out more? Visit Choose Audit for a breakdown of what audit really involves, video content from apprentices, and details on firms actively looking for students just like you.

In the meantime, let’s continue to get to know abit more about Audit through the interns and grads we interviewed as part of our Choose Audit campaign…

The Biggest Misconceptions around Audit

It's also worth noting that the Big Four offer far more than just audit. The accounting industry involves tax consulting, risk management, financial advisory, and management consulting - meaning there's a role to suit almost any interest in business, strategy, or finance.

And if the Big Four isn't the right fit, mid-tier firms like BDO, RSM, and Forvis Mazars offer many of the same services, often with a more personal work environment and stronger growth opportunities.

What will I get paid?

With some schemes, you won’t know the salary until you go for the role. But we can definitely give you a good idea of an average accounting salary based on job reviews on our website, from students who've been there:

And don’t forget, while you work within these firms, you’ll be treated as a permanent employee, gaining access to a whole host of benefits such as: 

• Private Healthcare - including dental insurance

• 25+ days of holiday

• Life assurance

• Lunch Allowances

• Corporate mobile phone

• Childcare vouchers

• Travel and Tech reimbursement 

• Flexible/Hybrid Working

• Lifestyle discounts

Is it hard to get a job with a Big Four accounting firm?

We can’t lie when we say the Big Four are selective, and their schemes are competitive - but that doesn't mean it’s impossible. With the right preparation and research, you're probably in a much better position than you think, especially this early in your career.

Let’s look at what actually makes the difference:

Academics & Certifications 

Most roles ask for a degree in accounting, finance or business - but it's worth knowing that you don't always need one before you start. For example, a Big Four degree apprenticeship lets you earn a degree while you work, meaning you build experience and qualifications at the same time without the full cost of university.

If you do go down the traditional university route, it's worth looking into professional certifications alongside your degree. The main ones to know are:

• ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) - one of the most recognised accounting qualifications in the world. You can start your ACCA exams while you're still at university, and many Big Four firms will sponsor you to complete the remaining exams once you join them full-time. It's a qualification you build over time, not something you need before you apply.

• CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants) - more focused on business and management accounting than pure audit. Again, you can begin studying while at university, and employers will often fund the rest when you join.

Relevant Experience

Internships, insight schemes, and placements give you a real edge when applying. Many successful candidates have prior industry experience, whether at the Big Four themselves or elsewhere in the sector.

Soft Skills

Technical ability alone won't get you through the door. Communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are just as important. 

The Big Four look for people who;

• thrive under pressure

• build strong client relationships

• collaborate effectively across teams

The good news? You don't need a CV full of corporate experience to show this. University projects, part-time work, extracurriculars, anything client-facing - it all counts.

Click to find out what skills you’ll learn during work experience.

Networking 

Career fairs, LinkedIn, and your university alumni network can open doors that a standard application might not. A referral or internal connection can make a genuine difference.

Tailor Your Applications

Research each firm's culture and values, read every job description carefully, and reflect what you find in your CV and cover letter. A targeted application always stands out over a generic one.