The UK’s accounting sector is among the most competitive and rewarding career paths, with top firms such as Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG, and BDO offering lucrative opportunities for students. However, obtaining a professional accounting qualification and university education can be expensive, with tuition fees, exam costs, and professional training adding financial pressure. To support aspiring accountants, many work scholarships and sponsorship programs are available from the Big Four and other leading firms.
This guide provides an in-depth overview of work scholarships offered by UK’s top accounting firms, their benefits, eligibility requirements, application process, and links to official pages.
Why Work Scholarships Matter in Accounting
Work scholarships in accounting are designed to:
- Reduce financial burden by covering tuition, training, and examination fees.
- Provide work experience through internships, placements, or apprenticeship-style programs.
- Secure job placements with top-tier firms upon graduation.
- Develop technical and leadership skills that give students a career advantage.
The UK’s Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) states that demand for chartered accountants continues to grow, with firms seeking talented graduates who have both academic knowledge and practical experience. Work scholarships offer a fast track to professional success, bridging the gap between education and employment.
Top Work Scholarships from Leading UK Accounting Firms
1. EY Assurance Scholarship
Overview
Ernst & Young (EY), one of the Big Four, offers the EY Assurance Scholarship, a unique program for students pursuing a degree in Accounting and Finance.
Benefits
- £15,000 financial support over three years.
- Paid work placements at EY during university holidays.
- Fast-track graduate job offer upon completion of the program.
- Hands-on experience in assurance, auditing, and financial reporting.
Eligibility
- Open to UK students who have secured admission at Lancaster University, the University of Bath, or the University of Warwick.
- Must have AAB grades or higher at A-Level.
How to Apply
- Applications are submitted via the university career service or EY’s official portal.
- Candidates undergo online assessments, interviews, and case studies.
📌 More Details: EY Careers
2. KPMG 360° Apprenticeship Program
Overview
KPMG 360° Apprenticeship is a work-based learning program offering students financial support, work experience, and professional qualifications.
Benefits
- Tuition and exam fees covered for accounting qualifications.
- Salary while training (starting at £20,000+ per year).
- Hands-on experience in audit, tax, and advisory.
- A permanent job offer after completing the program.
Eligibility
- Open to UK students aged 16 and above.
- Must have 5 GCSEs (Grades 9-4, including Maths and English).
How to Apply
- Apply via KPMG’s website.
- Complete online assessments, interviews, and assessment centres.
📌 More Details: KPMG Apprenticeships
3. PwC Accounting Flying Start Degree
Overview
PwC’s Flying Start Degree is a four-year sponsored program combining accounting study and paid work experience.
Benefits
- Tuition fee sponsorship for a degree in Accounting and Finance.
- Paid work placements at PwC during university breaks.
- Opportunity to qualify as a Chartered Accountant faster.
- Job offer after graduation.
Eligibility
- Open to students applying for Accounting & Finance degrees at PwC-partnered universities.
- Requires AAA-AAB grades at A-Level.
How to Apply
- Apply through UCAS to a PwC-partnered university.
- Secure an interview with PwC’s recruitment team.
📌 More Details: PwC Flying Start
4. Deloitte BrightStart Apprenticeship
Overview
The Deloitte BrightStart Apprenticeship provides an alternative to university by offering a full-time paid job with study support.
Benefits
- Salary of £21,000+ per year.
- Full sponsorship for ACCA, ICAEW, or CIMA qualifications.
- On-the-job learning and client work.
- A permanent job contract after qualification.
Eligibility
- Open to students aged 18+ in the UK.
- Minimum 104 UCAS points (A-Levels or equivalent).
How to Apply
- Apply via Deloitte’s careers website.
- Pass interviews, aptitude tests, and an assessment centre.
📌 More Details: Deloitte BrightStart
Scholarships from Accounting Professional Bodies
Apart from firms, professional bodies like ICAEW, ACCA, and CIMA offer scholarships to students.
5. ICAEW Foundation Bursary
- £4,000 per year for university accounting students.
- Eligibility: UK students from low-income backgrounds.
- 📌 More Info
6. ACCA Simpson Scholarship
- Covers exam and tuition fees for ACCA qualification.
- Open to students worldwide pursuing chartered accountancy.
- 📌 More Info
7. CIMA Global Student Bursary
- Financial assistance for management accounting students.
- Covers exam fees, membership fees, and tuition costs.
- 📌 More Info
How to Apply for Work Scholarships
To increase your chances of securing a work scholarship, follow these steps:
1. Research and Identify Suitable Scholarships
- Visit the websites of accounting firms, universities, and professional bodies like ICAEW, ACCA, and CIMA.
- Check the eligibility criteria, deadlines, required documents, and application process carefully.
- Consider reaching out to current scholars or alumni for insights and guidance.
2. Prepare a Strong Application
- Update your CV, personal statement, and cover letter, ensuring they highlight your academic achievements, work experience, leadership skills, and career aspirations.
- Tailor each application to the specific scholarship or work-study program to improve your chances of selection.
- Secure strong recommendation letters from professors, employers, or mentors.
3. Excel in Online Assessments
- Many firms use psychometric tests, including numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and logical thinking.
- Practice using platforms like AssessmentDay, SHL, and JobTestPrep to familiarize yourself with the format.
- Focus on time management and accuracy to score well.
4. Prepare for Interviews and Assessment Centres
- Expect a combination of competency-based, behavioral, and technical questions during the interview process.
- Research common case studies, business scenarios, and industry trends related to accounting and finance.
- Participate in mock interviews and group exercises to refine your problem-solving and communication skills.
- Showcase your motivation, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities during assessment centers.
By following these steps, students can significantly enhance their chances of securing a work scholarship, gaining financial support and valuable industry experience.
Conclusion
Work scholarships at the UK’s top accounting firms provide students with financial support, work experience, and a career pathway into the industry. Whether through apprenticeships, sponsored degrees, or graduate schemes, these programs remove financial barriers and help students gain chartered accountant status faster.
Students should research available scholarships, apply early, and prepare for assessments and interviews. By securing a work scholarship, aspiring accountants can graduate debt-free, gain practical experience, and secure high-paying jobs in some of the UK’s top firms.
📌 Useful Links:
By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can reduce education costs, gain valuable experience, and secure high-paying careers in accounting.