How to Get into Big 4 Accounting Firms in India

How to get into Big 4 accounting firms in India is a question that I guess almost every commerce and finance student asks at some point. 

The Big 4s, Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG are seen as dream employers because of the exposure, training, and growth they offer. Working in these companies not only boosts your career but also opens doors to global opportunities. 

If you want to build a strong profile and stand out in the finance world, knowing how to enter the Big 4 is the first step. So, in this blog, we are together going to explore how to get into Big 4 accounting firms in India and how you can prepare for this journey.

Why Work in the Big 4?

Working in Big 4 is a dream come true. For anyone dreaming of a career in finance or accounting, they just want to know how to get into Big 4 accounting firms as their ultimate goal. But the question arising here is, why are they so special? The answer is simple, and there are various reasons, including,

• The Big 4s are not just some random companies. They themselves are institutions that shape careers. These companies set global benchmarks in accounting, auditing, and consulting.
• Working with any of the Big 4 helps you gain exposure to some of the biggest clients across industries, ranging from multinational corporations to high-growth startups. You get numerous chances to handle real-world financial challenges early in your career, and this kind of experience is hard to find in other companies.
• Another reason to work in a Big 4 is the structured training and professional development. These companies invest in their employees as they are constantly learning, whether through hands-on projects, international exposure, or specialised training sessions. It helps them stay updated with industry standards and also prepares you for leadership roles in the future.
• The brand name itself is a huge advantage and adds value to your resume. Employers across the world recognise the value of this experience. Many professionals who start here later move on to senior roles in multinational companies, investment banks, or even start their own successful ventures.
• Lastly, the network you build while working at the Big 4 is priceless. You meet talented colleagues, industry leaders, and clients who can shape your professional journey for years to come. It’s not just a job; it’s an entry into a powerful global community.

So, working at the Big 4 is more than just a career move. It’s a launchpad that gives you skills, exposure, and credibility to stand out in the world of finance. 

Eligibility Criteria & Required Qualifications

It is not easy to get into the Big 4 in India and forget about luck. It is sheer hard work and your preparation, and you should know how to get into Big 4 accounting firms. For that, you need the right education, certifications, and a solid profile. So, here is what they usually expect.

• First of all, your educational background matters the most. Candidates coming from commerce, finance, or business fields, like a B.Com, BBA, or MBA (Finance) degree, are highly preferred. On the contrary, engineering or science graduates can also apply, but they usually need an additional finance qualification to stand out.
• Professional certification is your biggest entry ticket, like the Chartered Accountancy (CA), which is the most common route in India. Many fresh CAs are hired directly from campus by the Big 4. Along with CA, global courses like ACCA, CFA, US CMA, and others are also valued. These qualifications show that you have the technical knowledge needed for roles in audit, tax, or advisory. This is simply how to get into Big 4 accounting firms in India.
• For entry-level roles, good academic performance is important. The Big 4 employers look at your consistency in school and college. A strong academic record shows discipline and dedication valued alot by these firms.
• Internships and articleships add more weight. Many candidates enter through CA articleship or by doing summer internships. This gives you an early chance to prove your skills and often turns into a full-time job offer later.
• Fresh graduates are also hired directly from campus placements. Many universities and business schools have tie-ups with the Big 4. If you are from a reputed college, your chances become even stronger.
• Apart from formal qualifications, these firms also check your personality. They look for confidence, communication skills, and the ability to work in teams. After all, you will be dealing with clients and colleagues every single day.

So, gear up and prepare yourself as per their demand to easily get into the Big 4 accountancy firms in India. Once you enter the industry, there is no looking back.

Comparison Table of Qualifications for Big 4

Skills the Big 4 Look For

If you have reached here, it means that you know that you have to fulfil the eligibility criteria and gain the required qualification. But getting the right degree or certification is only the first step. The Big 4 also focus on skills that make you a complete professional. These skills help you perform well in demanding roles and grow faster in your career. So, below is the list of skills these companies look for, and it is also the answer to how to get into Big 4 accounting firms. 

• The first set is technical skills. You need strong knowledge of accounting standards, auditing practices, taxation, and financial reporting. For consulting or advisory roles, skills in business strategy and risk management also matter. Many teams now use data analytics, so being comfortable with Excel, financial modelling, and tools like Power BI or Tableau can give you an edge.
• Soft skills are equally important. The Big 4 work with top clients, so you must be proficient in communication skills. Your conversation with clients has to be clear and professional. You must know how to explain complex numbers in simple words. 
• Teamwork is another big factor because the projects in the Big 4 usually involve large teams. So being cooperative and adaptable is highly valued by these companies.
• Problem-solving is another key skill. Clients come with unique challenges, and you must think critically to provide them with solutions. Your creativity, logical thinking, and attention to detail will all play a big role here.
• Time management, again, is a must-have. Big 4s are fast-paced, so you will be having multiple projects running at once. Your ability to meet deadlines without compromising on quality is something the Big 4 look for closely.
• Finally, leadership potential is always considered. Even as a fresher, showing initiative, taking ownership of tasks, and being proactive can set you apart. The Big 4 want people who can grow into future managers and leaders.

So, this is how to get into the Big 4 accounting firms in India by building skills. Along with fulfilling the requirements, you can boost your career internationally. 

How to Get into Big 4 Accounting Firms: Step-by-Step Guide

You also dreamt of getting into Big 4? It may seem tough, but it becomes easier when you know the right steps. So, here we are listing the steps you can follow to know how to get into Big 4 accounting firms,

Step 1: Choose the right qualification

You should start with a strong educational base. A degree in commerce, finance, or business is helpful. Professional courses like CA, ACCA, CPA, CMA, or CFA add more value. These qualifications show you have the technical knowledge that the Big 4 look for, and the most commonly followed path to get into the Big 4.

Step 2: Build a strong academic record

The Big 4 employers pay close attention to marks. A consistent performance in school, college, and professional exams reflects discipline. Even if your scores are not perfect, showing improvement and dedication impresses them. So, this is how you can get into the Big 4.

Step 3: Gain internship or articleship experience

Internships are one of the best entry points, as they show your technical skills. CA articleship or summer internships at accounting firms give you hands-on exposure. Performing well is how you may get into the Big 4 pre-placement.

Step 4: Work on your resume

Your CV should be simple, clear, and professional. You should highlight your education, certifications, internships, and skills. But keep it short, and ideally one page. The Big 4 receive thousands of applications, so a clean and focused resume stands out.

Step 5: Build your network

Networking can open hidden opportunities as well. So, you should stay active on LinkedIn, connect with alumni, and attend industry events for better connections. Many Big 4 hires happen through employee referrals. A good connection can make your application stronger to get into the Big 4.

Step 6: Prepare for the selection process

The recruitment process usually involves an aptitude test, a technical round, and an HR interview. So, practice aptitude questions, revise your core subjects, and work on communication before. Also, case studies are common, so practice problem-solving with real examples, and that is how you can get into the Big 4.

Step 7: Be open to lateral entry

If you miss the campus placement, you can still join later. Many professionals enter the Big 4 after working in mid-tier firms. Lateral entry is common, especially for CAs and other qualified professionals.

Step 8: Stay consistent and patient

Your journey may take time. You may face rejections, but persistence is key. So, keep improving your skills and applying until you get into the Big 4.

So, follow the above-mentioned steps, as these show the clear path to how to get into Big 4 accounting firms in India.

Job Opportunities and Salaries at the Big 4

There is a wide scope at the Big 4 after being skilled and fulfilling the requirements. There are significant jobs for freshers and experienced professionals. Each department has its own role, responsibilities, and growth path. Here is the list of job opportunities and salaries at the Big 4.

• Audit and Assurance is the most common entry area to get into the Big 4. Here, you work on company audits, financial statements, and compliance checks. It is demanding but gives you deep exposure to how businesses run.
• Taxation roles focus on direct and indirect taxes. You assist companies with tax planning, GST, and filing requirements. With India’s complex tax system, this area has high demand.
• Advisory and Consulting is another key division. Professionals here guide companies on strategy, mergers, acquisitions, and business risks. The work is challenging but highly rewarding.
• Risk Management roles focus on identifying and reducing financial risks. It involves compliance checks, fraud prevention, and internal control reviews.
• Technology and Data Analytics roles are growing fast. The Big 4 now use advanced tools for auditing and advisory. Candidates with digital skills often find good opportunities in this space.
• When it comes to salaries, it depends on the level of entry. During CA articleship, stipends usually range from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per month, depending on the city.
• Freshers joining as Associates or Analysts can expect salaries between ₹4–8 LPA. For qualified CAs, the starting package often lies between ₹8–12 LPA.
• MBA graduates, especially from top business schools, may get higher packages, usually around ₹12–18 LPA.
• For experienced professionals, salaries can go much higher. Senior Managers and Partners earn in crores, depending on performance and client base.

No doubt growth is steady at the Big 4, but with strong performance, promotions are quick, and salaries rise with each step. So, the experience you gain also ensures that opportunities outside the Big 4 remain open at all times.

Tips on How to Get Into the Big 4 Accounting Firms

Are you still wondering how to get into Big 4 accounting firms? Here are some tips that can increase your chances, irrespective of the skills and qualifications you have. Getting into the Big 4 is not easy at all, and it is also about how you prepare and present yourself. 

• Firstly, you focus on the right certifications like CA, ACCA, CPA, CMA, or CFA to make your profile stronger. They show that you are committed to the profession and willing to go the extra mile.
• Also, try to gain practical exposure as much as possible through internships and articleships to help you learn real-world skills. Even short-term projects at mid-tier firms add value and make your CV more credible.
• You should also try to keep your resume simple and clear. Avoiding long paragraphs or too much detail will make it more readable and professional. Highlight your education, achievements, and skills in a crisp manner.
• LinkedIn is a strong platform, so use it wisely.  You should build a professional profile and connect with employees of the Big 4. Engage as much as possible by sharing insights and applying directly through job postings. As a strong LinkedIn presence can attract recruiters.
• The Big 4 look for candidates who understand business trends, so stay updated with industry knowledge. Reading financial news, tax updates, and case studies helps you stand out in interviews.
• You will deal with clients and teams regularly, so work on communication skills, as clear, confident communication is as important as technical knowledge.
• Most Big 4 interviews test your aptitude, subject knowledge, and problem-solving ability, so keep practising for interviews. Mock interviews and case study practice can boost your confidence.
• The Big 4 value candidates who are hardworking, adaptable, and willing to learn, so they have a positive attitude. Even small signs of eagerness and professionalism can make a big difference.

So, with the right preparation, smart networking, and consistent effort, is how to get into Big 4 accounting firms. Now it has become a realistic goal rather than just a dream.

Conclusion

Getting into the Big 4 Accounting Firms in India may feel challenging, but it is not impossible. With the right qualifications, strong skills, and consistent effort, you can make your way in. These firms look for candidates who are not only good at academics but also strong in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

A career at Deloitte, PwC, EY, or KPMG gives you unmatched exposure, global opportunities, and a strong professional brand. The journey may take time, but every step you take adds value to your growth.

If you are clear about your goals and stay focused, the Big 4 can become the best place to begin or boost your career.

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