What a Big Four audit graduate scheme is really like

"Big Four graduate scheme" is shorthand for a structured three-year programme at Deloitte, PwC, EY or KPMG that trains you to chartered status while you work. Here's what the day-to-day actually looks like.

The rhythm of the year

Audit work is seasonal. "Busy season" (broadly January–April for December year-ends) is genuinely demanding — long days, client deadlines, real pressure. Outside busy season the pace is far more manageable, and you'll have meaningful study leave for exams.

What you'll actually do

As a first-year associate you'll start with defined audit areas — cash, fixed assets, testing controls — building up to more judgemental areas over time. You'll work in teams, on client site or remotely, under a senior who reviews your work.

The learning curve is steep but supported. You're never expected to know everything on day one; the whole model is built around training.

Exams are part of the job

You'll sit ICAEW (ACA) or equivalent exams throughout, with paid study leave and tuition. Passing is non-negotiable for progression, so treat exams with the same seriousness as client work. The firms invest heavily in you precisely because they expect you to qualify.

Is it for you?

The Big Four route is excellent if you want a recognised qualification, broad commercial exposure, and a clear progression ladder. The trade-off is the busy-season intensity and the exam load running alongside full-time work. Go in clear-eyed and the three years pay off for decades.