Deloitte is one of the “Big Four” accounting firms and a global leader in consulting, auditing, tax, and advisory services. Each year, thousands of professionals apply to join its ranks, drawn by its reputation, professional development opportunities, and global impact.
Whether you’re a student searching for an internship, a recent graduate eyeing a trainee program, or an experienced professional seeking a fresh challenge, Deloitte offers a wide range of opportunities tailored to different career stages and backgrounds.
In this guide, you’ll discover exactly how to navigate the hiring process at Deloitte. We’ll break it down step by step so you can understand what the company looks for and how to best position yourself for success. Let’s dive into the details and help you take a confident step toward your future.
Understand what Deloitte does
Before applying to Deloitte, it’s essential to understand the scope of the company’s operations. Deloitte is a global network of firms that provides audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services. With offices in over 150 countries, it supports clients across industries like finance, healthcare, technology, energy, and government. Its mission centers on making an impact that matters—on clients, employees, and communities.
Deloitte operates under a multidisciplinary model. That means professionals collaborate across service lines, providing holistic solutions. Whether you’re an accountant, data scientist, software engineer, or lawyer, there’s likely a role at Deloitte that aligns with your skills and interests.
To learn more, visit Deloitte’s official website, where you’ll find detailed descriptions of each business area and insight into its thought leadership and innovation projects.
Explore the different career paths at Deloitte
Deloitte offers multiple career tracks depending on your level of experience and area of interest. Here are the most common paths:
- Internships: Ideal for college juniors or seniors, these programs offer real project experience and mentorship.
- Graduate Programs: Designed for recent graduates, these rotational or entry-level programs help new professionals build a foundation in their chosen field.
- Experienced Hires: Professionals with prior work experience can apply for roles in their area of expertise, such as finance, cybersecurity, analytics, or risk management.
- Consulting Careers: Deloitte Consulting is a major division that employs professionals who advise clients on strategy, technology, operations, and transformation.
- Corporate Support Roles: Functions like marketing, IT, legal, and human resources offer opportunities outside client services.
Each path has its own application timeline, requirements, and expectations, so it’s important to align your goals with the appropriate track.
What qualifications and skills are Deloitte looking for?
Deloitte values more than academic performance. While having a strong GPA can enhance your application, the firm takes a holistic approach to evaluating candidates. Here are some of the top qualifications and traits Deloitte seeks:
- Education: A bachelor’s degree is typically required. For consulting and advisory roles, degrees in business, economics, engineering, data science, or computer science are often preferred.
- Analytical and critical thinking: Deloitte wants professionals who can analyze complex problems and generate strategic insights.
- Teamwork and collaboration: Given the firm’s multidisciplinary structure, working well with others is critical.
- Communication skills: Both verbal and written communication must be clear, professional, and adaptable to different audiences.
- Adaptability: Deloitte operates in fast-changing environments. Being flexible and eager to learn helps candidates thrive.
- Leadership and initiative: Even at the entry level, showing that you’ve led a team, launched a project, or solved a challenge independently adds significant value to your application.
Relevant certifications, like CPA, PMP, or technical credentials (e.g., AWS, Azure, or Salesforce), can also boost your profile.
How to apply for an internship or entry-level position
Start by visiting Deloitte’s careers portal and filtering for student or entry-level opportunities. Applications typically open months in advance—summer internship applications often launch in the fall of the previous year.
Follow these steps:
- Prepare your résumé: Focus on academic achievements, leadership roles, extracurricular involvement, and any relevant work experience.
- Craft a tailored cover letter: Explain why Deloitte aligns with your values and how your skills match the role.
- Complete the online application: Make sure all information is accurate and error-free.
- Get a referral if possible: Deloitte encourages employee referrals. Reaching out to someone in your network can increase your chances.
- Prepare for online assessments: These may include cognitive tests, personality profiles, or situational judgment questions.
It’s also wise to attend campus events or Deloitte-hosted webinars to build connections and stay updated on recruiting timelines.
How to apply as an experienced professional
If you have several years of experience, applying to Deloitte involves a more strategic approach. Begin by identifying open roles that match your skill set on the Deloitte careers website.
Steps to follow:
- Update your LinkedIn and résumé: Highlight achievements, metrics, and industry expertise.
- Research the business unit: Know whether you’re applying to Deloitte Consulting, Audit & Assurance, Tax, or another division.
- Network internally: Reach out to current Deloitte employees via LinkedIn. Ask about their experience and request informational interviews.
- Customize your application: Tailor your cover letter to the specific job posting. Mention past projects relevant to Deloitte’s client base.
- Ace the behavioral and technical interviews: Expect multiple interview rounds focused on problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership.
Many experienced professionals join Deloitte through industry-specific or transformation-focused roles. If you’re already a subject-matter expert, your insights are a valuable asset.
Tips to stand out during the selection process
Deloitte receives thousands of applications each year. Here’s how to distinguish yourself:
- Do your homework: Understand Deloitte’s values, recent news, and major projects. Refer to them in your interviews.
- Use the STAR method: When answering behavioral questions, structure your answers using Situation, Task, Action, and Result.
- Be concise and impactful: Whether writing your résumé or speaking in interviews, focus on outcomes and what sets you apart.
- Ask insightful questions: Show curiosity about the company’s culture, innovation areas, or team dynamics.
- Demonstrate a global mindset: Especially if you’re interested in international roles, showcase cultural awareness and adaptability.
Remember: professionalism, preparation, and authenticity go a long way.
Opportunities for international candidates
Deloitte is a truly global organization. If you’re seeking opportunities outside your home country, keep these points in mind:
- Language skills: Fluency in English is typically required, but other languages are a plus depending on the region.
- Visa requirements: Some countries require sponsorship. Deloitte often provides this for highly qualified candidates, but not always for entry-level roles.
- Global mobility programs: Once hired, you may be eligible for short- or long-term assignments abroad through internal mobility programs.
- Networking is key: Reach out to Deloitte recruiters in your target country or region and join international virtual events.
Start by selecting your preferred location on Deloitte’s careers portal and reading the application requirements for that country.
What is it like to work at Deloitte?
Working at Deloitte offers a fast-paced, collaborative, and rewarding environment. Employees consistently highlight the following benefits:
- Learning and development: From certifications to leadership academies, Deloitte invests heavily in training.
- Mentorship: Formal and informal mentorship programs help employees grow personally and professionally.
- Diversity and inclusion: Deloitte promotes an inclusive workplace through ERGs (Employee Resource Groups) and global initiatives.
- Flexibility: Many roles offer hybrid or remote options, depending on the team and project.
- Career progression: A structured path exists for those who want to move from analyst to partner, with regular performance reviews and promotions based on merit.
Glassdoor and LinkedIn reviews from employees often praise Deloitte for its innovation, people-first culture, and global opportunities.
Final thoughts
Getting hired at Deloitte can be a competitive process, but it’s also highly rewarding. With a strong global reputation, diverse career paths, and a commitment to professional development, Deloitte is an excellent choice for anyone serious about making an impact in their field.
If you’re ready to pursue a career at Deloitte, start preparing early, be strategic with your applications, and always lead with authenticity. There’s no perfect candidate—just someone who’s the right fit for the right role.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does Deloitte hire people from non-business backgrounds?
Yes. While many roles are business-focused, Deloitte hires professionals from engineering, IT, law, science, and the arts—especially in consulting and analytics.
2. How long does the Deloitte hiring process take?
It varies by region and role but typically spans 4–8 weeks, including assessments and multiple interview rounds.
3. Can I apply to more than one role at Deloitte?
Yes, but it’s recommended to limit your applications to a few well-matched roles to show focus and intention.
4. What’s the dress code at Deloitte?
Deloitte typically follows a business casual dress code, with some variation depending on location and whether client-facing.
5. Are Deloitte internships paid?
Yes, internships at Deloitte are paid and often come with additional benefits like mentorship, training, and the potential for a full-time offer.