Seeking Guidance (UK)
Hi everyone,
I’m just two months away from graduating with a first-class degree in Accounting and finance, and I already have a graduate training contract lined up with a management accounts team at a large local firm. They’re also sponsoring my ACCA studies, and I have two years of experience with them.
However, I’m really interested in pursuing a role in audit—preferably within a Big 4 firm. Unfortunately, I faced rejection for their September intake after reaching the assessment centre stage. My only current option is an offer from a Top 100 professional services firm, but I’m uncertain whether it’s worth leaving my existing position for that opportunity.
I’m looking for some advice:
- How feasible is it to transition to a Big 4 Audit role after completing my ACCA in management Accounting?
- Would it be wiser to stay in my current job, start my ACCA, and reapply to Big 4 firms in 2026?
- Is accepting the offer from the Top 100 firm a good career move, or is it too risky?
I would appreciate insights from anyone who has faced a similar crossroads. Thank you!
One response
Hi there!
Firstly, congratulations on your upcoming graduation and securing a graduate/training contract! That’s a significant achievement, especially with a 1st in Accounting and finance.
Pivoting to Big 4 Audit After ACCA: It is certainly possible to transition to a Big 4 Audit role after completing your ACCA, even from a management Accounting background. Firms value diverse experiences, and having your ACCA will strengthen your profile. Just be aware that Big 4 firms often prefer candidates with Audit experience, so you’ll need to highlight your transferable skills and any relevant experience in your applications.
Staying in Your Current Role: Remaining in your current position while working towards your ACCA can be a smart choice, particularly since you like the company and they are investing in your development. This stability might make you a stronger candidate for future Big 4 applications, allowing you to gain a solid foundation of experience and potentially even some relevant projects that could relate to audit during your time there. Reapplying in 2026 could also align with your growth in skill and qualifications.
Considering the Top 100 Firm Offer: Taking the offer from the Top 100 firm could be a good stepping stone, especially if they offer strong training, opportunities for growth, and a path to audit experience. However, it’s essential to assess what the role entails and if it aligns with your long-term goals. If they have a robust audit department and could facilitate your move to audit, it might be worth it. On the flip side, if you feel uncertain about the firm’s reputation compared to Big 4, it might be wise to consider whether that’s the experience you want.
Ultimately, it depends on your career goals and how you define success in the next few years. Take some time to weigh the pros and cons, reflect on where you see yourself in the future, and perhaps even speak to mentors in the field for more tailored advice. Good luck with your decision-making!