EY Adjusts Start Dates for Consulting Recruits for the Third Consecutive Year

In an unexpected turn of events, Ernst & Young (EY) has announced a further postponement of start dates for its consulting recruits, marking the third consecutive year of such changes. Candidates who were anticipating to join the firm in the coming months have now been informed that their onboarding will not take place any earlier than March 2026.

The firm has attributed this delay to “uncertain and evolving market conditions,” reflecting the broader challenges facing the consulting industry in today’s economic climate.

To assist those affected by this decision, EY is offering its recruits two options:

1. Postpone Start Date: New hires can choose to delay their entry into the firm until the latter half of 2026, which comes with the benefit of a one-time payment of $10,000.

2. Opt-Out Option: Alternatively, recruits have the option to step away from the firm entirely while retaining their original sign-on bonus.

As market dynamics continue to shift, this move by EY serves as a reminder of the complexities within the consulting sector and the importance of adaptability for both firms and new talent alike. It remains to be seen how these choices will impact recruit morale and the firm’s reputation among prospective employees.