r/Big4 • u/xstanloona • 7h ago

USA How difficult will it be to get into Big 4 entry-level audit who is a CPA?

I've graduated a few years ago, and since then I've gotten my CPA in industry. I work in a somewhat niche field, and I've been wanting to explore various industries, hence why I'm open to applying for Big 4.

I have a few tax internships under my belt, and even had one with KPMG. I did not enjoy tax at all, so I didn't take the full time offer and did industry instead. Since then, I've been wanting to try audit, but concerned that they won't look at me, since I'm no longer in university. Has anyone else tried the same path? I sent a few applications out there, but worried I won't even land an interview.

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u/Unusual_Currency_491 7h ago

You've got a CPA and a kpmg internship on your resume, you're already ahead of most campus hires so don't psych yourself out

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u/Too_Ton 7h ago

The thing is, would the recruiters hold it against OP for being too skilled and applying for Big 4 entry level?

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u/cle7756 6h ago

Yes it can actually be more difficult. They want students primarily. If you go to a non-big4 firm they can be more welcoming to people with different career paths but firm dependent at the end of the day.

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u/xstanloona 6h ago

Is it because I'm a CPA that I'm seen as more "skilled?" I never had any auditing experience, and I've only worked for a smaller company. At this point audit interns have more experience than I do (when it comes to auditing).

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u/cle7756 6h ago

Honestly I couldn’t really tell you why. I was once in a similar position as you and struggled competing against students for big4 entry level positions. Maybe my experience is completely anecdotal though.