Big Four Graduate Schemes UK: Pay, Hiring & How to Get In
TL;DR
- Deloitte, PwC, EY and KPMG hire thousands of UK graduates each year.
- London starting pay runs from about £31,000 to £38,000, depending on the firm.
- The Big Four cut graduate intake by up to 29% as AI takes on junior work.
- Apply early, tailor your CV, and practise the online tests to stand out.
Big Four graduate schemes are some of the most popular jobs in the UK. Deloitte, PwC, EY and KPMG hire more graduates than almost any other group of employers. But the door is getting narrower. In 2025 the Financial Times reported that the Big Four had cut entry-level roles sharply as AI takes on junior tasks. So how do you still get in? This guide covers the pay, the process, and the plan that works.
What Are the Big Four Graduate Schemes?
The Big Four are the four largest accountancy and professional services firms in the world: Deloitte, PwC, EY and KPMG. They run graduate schemes in audit, tax, consulting, technology, and data. Schemes usually last two to three years. You work full time and study for a professional qualification, such as the ACA for audit.
You do not need an accountancy degree. Most firms take graduates from any subject. They look for strong grades, clear thinking, and real interest in business. If you are new to the process, read our guide to how graduate schemes work in the UK first.
Big Four Graduate Salaries in 2026
Pay varies by firm, role, and city. According to the LearnSignal Big Four Salary Guide 2026, typical starting salaries look like this:
| Firm | London start | Regional start |
|---|---|---|
| Deloitte | £33,000-£38,000 | £28,000-£33,000 |
| PwC | £32,000-£37,000 | £28,000-£33,000 |
| EY | £32,000-£37,000 | £27,000-£32,000 |
| KPMG | £31,000-£36,000 | £27,000-£32,000 |
London roles pay the most, but living costs are higher there. Many graduates choose regional offices to keep more of their pay. Once you qualify, pay rises fast. Indeed data shows qualified auditors often pass £45,000 a year.
Big Four Hiring Is Getting Tougher
The Financial Times reported in 2025 that Big Four firms cut graduate hiring by up to 29% as AI takes over entry-level tasks. Their combined intake of graduates and apprentices fell from 6,500 in 2023 to 5,400 in 2025. That is about 1,100 fewer roles. Competition for each place is fierce.
But the firms still hire thousands of graduates every year. The key is to be ready early. Most schemes open in the autumn. Check the graduate scheme deadlines calendar so you do not miss a window.
How to Apply for Big Four Graduate Schemes
Every firm runs a similar process. Expect four stages:
- An online application form with your grades and work history.
- Online tests, including numerical reasoning and situational judgement.
- A video interview with pre-recorded questions.
- An assessment centre with group tasks and a final interview.
Each stage filters out applicants. Preparation is everything. Use the AI CV Checker to make sure your CV matches the job. Practise the online tests before you book them. For the final stage, work through our assessment centre tips.
Big Four Application Tips That Work
- Apply early. Many schemes fill on a rolling basis.
- Tailor every form. Generic answers get cut.
- Show commercial awareness. Read the news about the firm.
- Mention any work experience, even part-time roles.
- Track every deadline with the Application Tracker so nothing slips.
The Bottom Line
Big Four graduate schemes are still a strong route into professional services. London pay starts around £31,000 to £38,000, and the training is world class. Hiring is tighter than before, but the firms still take thousands of new graduates each year.
Your edge is preparation. Fix your CV, practise the tests, and apply before the rush. Create your free Padgrad account and build a stronger application today.
By Ori