A job in the Big 4 is a dream come true for any accounting professional, especially at firms like Ernst & Young (EY), Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and KPMG. Statistics show that Deloitte had 345,370 employees in 2021, followed by EY with 312,250, PwC with 295,371, and KPMG with 236,000. If you aspire to be part of this workforce, check out these practical tips on how to get a job in Big 4 companies.
Why the Big 4?
The Big 4 firms operate in various segments, including advisory/consulting services, audit/ assurance/audit and enterprise risk (AERS) services, taxation services, and so on. The revenue figures of the Big 4 companies will inspire candidates to be a part of such global organisations. In 2021 the combined revenue from the firms stood at USD 167.2 billion. Besides, working at the Big 4 can give a solid headstart to your career, establishing your expertise and knowledge on the global stage.
Who Are the Big 4 Firms?
The Big 4 firms refer to the four largest professional services networks in the world, specialising in audit, tax, advisory and consulting services.
- Deloitte
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC)
- Ernst & Young (EY)
- KPMG
These firms operate globally and are known for serving multinational corporations, governments and other large institutions. They are influential in setting industry standards and often act as training grounds for professionals entering the corporate finance, accounting and consulting sectors.
Why Freshers Benefit from Big 4 Experience
Starting a job in the Big 4 firm offers freshers a strong professional foundation and a competitive advantage.
- Structured learning environment with formal training and mentorship
- High exposure to diverse industries and clients from day one
- Strong resume value, enhancing future job opportunities in finance, consulting or corporate roles
- Access to global networks and international assignments
- Reputation for excellence that signals credibility to future employers
The Big 4 experience often accelerates personal and professional development, making it highly valuable early in one’s career.
Qualifications and Requirements to Work at a Big 4 Firm
To secure a position at a Big 4 firm, candidates must meet both educational and professional expectations.
- Educational Requirements
A degree in accounting, finance, commerce, business administration or economics is typically required. For audit or tax roles, a Chartered Accountant (CA) or CPA qualification is highly preferred. - Professional Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and presentation abilities
- Team collaboration and time management
- Proficiency in MS Excel, PowerPoint and relevant accounting software
- Certifications (Preferred or Required)
- CA, CPA, ACCA for audit and tax profiles
- CFA, MBA or CISA for consulting and advisory roles
- Campus Recruitment & Internships
Most Big 4 firms recruit through campus placements, internships or graduate trainee programs. Internships can often lead to full-time offers based on performance.
5 Tips for landing a job in Big 4 firms
Getting into a Big 4 firm is not as easy as it seems. Candidates must undergo rigorous interviews and test sessions before landing a job at these prestigious organisations.
Let us take a look at some practical tips which help in getting a job in Big 4 companies:
1. Focus on your resume
The first step of hiring begins with your resume. Big 4 companies are highly selective when it comes to hiring new candidates. Unless your resume is stellar and stands out from others, you will not get an interview call from the Big 4 firms.Â
Make your resume concise with proper formatting and attach a well-written cover letter. Make sure you use professional email templates for correspondence with recruitment officers from the firms.
2. Make the most of fall recruitment
Fall recruitments on college campuses are vital for candidates aiming to join the Big 4 firms. All the Big 4 companies show interest in these events for recruiting new employees and fresh interns. September to October is the fall recruitment period. Candidates should remain focused and prepared to make the most of this opportunity.Â
Many colleges arrange job fairs during the fall. Representatives from the Big 4 companies are often present at these fairs looking for promising candidates to work for their organisation. You might be lucky to grab a valuable opportunity here.
3. Choose a specialisation area
Recruiters of Big 4 companies are quick with their interviews. Expect them to keep the conversation short and cut to the chase while interviewing candidates. They usually question the candidate on professional interests and career goals and having an area of specialisation helps in such a situation.Â
Some prominent specialisation areas include auditing, technology, consulting, tax accounting, assurance, advisory and so on.
4. Clear the CPA examination
Many accountants keep the CPA examination for their future career development plans. But if you are targeting Big 4 entry-level jobs or other professional roles in these companies, it is a wise move to clear the CPA examination beforehand. Passing this examination will make you a Certified Public Accountant – a reputed and respectable designation in accounting firms.Â
The CPA examination is not only challenging but time-intensive. If you seek a job in the Big 4, clearing the CPA examination will give you an edge over the thousands of others competing for the same position.Â
5. Grab an early internship
If you are lucky to grab an internship with any Big 4 company, you have a high chance of employment in a Big 4 accounting firm. But remember that you might get very little or no pay for huge volumes of work during the internship.
However, during the internship, you will have hands-on experience with how the company functions. You will also get thorough knowledge on things which will help you get a full-time job opportunity at the company. The internship will be a step towards your goal of gaining employment in a Big 4 accounting firm.Â
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Additional Strategies to Secure a Big 4 Job
Securing a position at a Big 4 firm is highly competitive but the right strategies can significantly improve your chances. These approaches go beyond academic qualifications and help you stand out in a large pool of applicants.
1. Gain Relevant Work Experience
Practical exposure in accounting, finance, auditing or consulting adds substantial value to your application.
- Internships at local firms or small consultancies show initiative and readiness
- Freelance or part-time finance-related work demonstrates practical understanding
- Volunteer roles involving budgeting or compliance work are also value
Relevant experience signals to recruiters that you’re prepared for the fast-paced environment of a Big 4 firm.
2. Network Extensively
Networking is essential in increasing visibility and gaining insider guidance.
- Attend university placement events, webinars and finance conferences
- Connect with Big 4 professionals via LinkedIn or alumni networks
- Engage with recruiters and ask for informational interviews
Building genuine relationships within the industry often leads to early referrals and opportunities.
3. Research and Target the Right Firm
Each Big 4 firm has unique strengths and culture. Tailoring your approach to the right one increases your chances.
- Deloitte is known for consulting and innovation
- PwC emphasises audit and assurance leadership
- EY has a strong focus on advisory and transformation
- KPMG is recognised for risk and tax advisory
Understanding a firm’s key service lines and aligning your strengths with its mission helps you position yourself effectively.
4. Prepare a Compelling Application & Ace the Interview
An outstanding application combines clarity, relevance and professionalism.
- Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the firm’s values
- Highlight quantifiable achievements and technical skills
- Prepare with mock interviews and case studies
- Practice common behavioral and technical questions
Being well-prepared shows that you are not only qualified but also deeply motivated to join the firm.
5. Demonstrate Soft Skills & Professionalism
Big 4 roles require strong interpersonal and client-facing abilities.
- Display communication, adaptability and a growth mindset
- Exhibit professionalism through punctuality, appearance and etiquette
- Use STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format to describe past achievements
Your ability to collaborate, adapt and lead will be closely assessed during the recruitment process.
6. Leverage Online Platforms & Personal Branding
A strong online presence reinforces your credibility and visibility.
- Keep your LinkedIn profile updated with relevant achievements and skills
- Publish articles or insights in finance and consulting to showcase thought leadership
- Join relevant groups and engage in industry conversations
Effective personal branding can draw attention from recruiters and professionals in the Big 4 network.
Salary Structure and Career Growth in Big 4 Firms
Working at a Big 4 firm not only provides a prestigious start to your career but also offers a competitive compensation package and a clearly defined path for advancement.
Entry-Level Salaries in Big 4 Accounting Firms
Entry-level roles, particularly in audit and tax, provide modest but structured compensation.
- India: ₹4.5 – ₹7 LPA for freshers (CA/graduate-level roles)
- US/UK: $55,000 – $75,000 annually for graduates
- Salary varies by location, qualifications and department
- Bonuses are typically performance-based and increase with seniority
Most firms offer annual raises and promotion-based increments along with benefits like health insurance, study leave and training allowances.
Salary Structure in Big 4 Consulting
Consulting roles within the Big 4 typically command higher starting salaries due to the complexity and client exposure involved.
- India: ₹8 – ₹15 LPA for entry-level consultants (MBA preferred)
- US/UK: $70,000 – $100,000+ for associates from top business schools
- Performance bonuses, travel allowances and project-based incentives are common
- Career progression is faster, with clear milestones from Associate to Partner
Growth in consulting is merit-based, with many professionals advancing to leadership roles within 5–7 years.
ConclusionÂ
The tips we discussed here will guide you on how to get a job in Big 4 accounting firms. Getting a job with the Big 4 companies is difficult but it is not impossible. Enrolling in Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Course and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) programmes with a reputed institute or college and getting a minimum 3.0 GPA provides a solid foundation.
Zell Education offers ACCA and CFA programmes for interested accountants.
The UK-based ACCA programme can help candidates take up accounting jobs worldwide. ACCAs have commendable skill sets and are a favourite with the Big 4.
With global accreditation and acceptance, the CFA course is one of the most sought-after international qualifications in finance. There are three levels in the course and candidates must acquire the qualifying marks at each level to progress to the next.
Visit Zell Education today to learn more about these programmes.
FAQ’s on the Job in the Big 4:
Are Big 4 jobs hard to get?
Getting a job in Big 4 companies can be challenging but it is not impossible. Candidates must have the right experience, networking and preparation to increase their chances of getting a job at these companies.
How do you get selected in the Big 4?
The Big 4 companies conduct several rounds of interviews and tests for hiring candidates. After an initial HR round, there is a first technical round followed by a partner/director round. The final HR round follows if candidates clear the previous rounds successfully.
What is the salary in the Big Four?
The salary of freshers in the Big 4 companies ranges from USD40,000 to USD60,000 per annum. The salaries keep increasing for senior positions like senior associate, manager, senior manager and so on.
What do Big 4 recruiters look for?
Big 4 recruiters look for team players with excellent communication skills and business acumen. They should also be proficient in various aspects of accounting.
