Students Careers Frequently asked questions - Ernst & Young - Australia

Applying to Ernst & Young

Q:

I'm a student. What are my opportunities with Ernst & Young?

A:

Depending on the office in which you're interested in working, you may be eligible for the Cadet, Internship Year or Vacationer Program. You can join us from school or university as a cadet, and combine work and university study. As an intern (Melbourne only) you work with us for 9 to 12 months before completing the final year of your degree. As a vacationer, you gain between two weeks and three months work experience with us in your penultimate year of uni. All have the potential to become full-time positions. Go to Student Programs to learn more about the opportunities available.

Q:

How do I start the application process?

A:

Familiarise yourself with our eligibility requirements. If you meet these requirements you can complete the online application form. You'll need to attach an electronic copy of your academic transcript. If you're an international student residing and studying in Australia we'll ask you to submit a copy of your IELTS scores. We're not accepting applications from students based outside Australia at this time. Applications for all of our programs can be submitted through our website.

Q:

I've just graduated, can I apply now or am I too late??

A:

You can apply to our Graduate Program within 12 months from your graduation date at the time of application. Lodge your application once we've opened the process, which we do each year, normally in March.

Q:

Do you offer positions to international students studying at Australian universities?

A:

Yes. Find out more about our requirements. At this time, we are not accepting applications from students based outside Australia.

Q:

What majors besides accounting does Ernst & Young hire?

A:

Human resources, information systems, engineering, law, science, environmental studies, actuarial studies, economics, finance, maths and psychology. If you have a bachelor degree in a discipline other than accounting and you're keen to pursue a career in chartered accounting, we'll support you to complete Deakin University's Graduate Certificate of Chartered Accounting Foundations course. In 2010, international students must by studying for an accounting degree to be considered for a graduate or vacationer position.

Q:

Do you accept applications from post-graduate students?

A:

Yes, we do. We employ post-graduates with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences who have completed Honours, Masters, MBA and Graduate Diploma courses into our Vacationer and Graduate Programs, and consider them for experienced hire opportunities.

Q:

What does Ernst & Young look for in potential Vacationers/Graduates/Cadets?

A:

It is not just based on academic performance. We are looking for well-rounded candidates with good communication and interpersonal skills, someone who will work well in a team, and someone who is enthusiastic and motivated to learn.

Q:

Are there any offices where it's easier to obtain an interview or offer?

A:

All our offices require the same high standards of academic qualifications, competencies and personal qualities. However, some offices recruit higher numbers of graduates, giving you increased opportunities to apply and interview. Go to Job Search to review the opportunities on offer in your preferred location(s) and apply.

Q:

How has the current economy affected your graduate recruiting efforts?

A:

People are our most valuable resource and we plan to maintain our current intake of graduates this year. We’re focused on identifying and hiring the most qualified and suitable talent from outstanding universities around the world to support our business now and in the future.

Q:

Can I speak to someone about your recruiting process and available programs?

A:

There are several ways to find out more about our process and programs. You may wish to talk to your lecturers, or peers who've been on one of our Vacationer programs. You’ll see us on campus, at school or at our offices so you have an opportunity to ask us questions. It's worth checking out our Facebook® page - Ernst & Young Careers - Australia. They provide more information and insights that will help you make an informed decision about pursuing a career with Ernst & Young.

Q:

What happens once we receive your application?

A:

As soon as we receive your application, we'll send you a confirmation email. If your qualifications meet our requirements, we'll then invite you to attend a recruitment day. For helpful tips on how to prepare for an interview, click here.

Back to top

Working at Ernst & Young

Q:

How is Ernst & Young structured?

A:

Ernst & Young is a global organisation made up of member firms in 140 countries. Each member firm is owned by its partners and they have operational control of their business. However, in order to maintain the same high standards of service quality and delivery in each of our locations, we have a global governance structure. This consists of five geographic Areas, each with an Area Executive that works in close partnership with our Global Executive, headed up by our CEO, Jim Turley. To support our efforts as a global organisation, we also have a global entity, Ernst & Young Global, which works strategically with each of our Areas to support consistency and excellence in all of our activities around the world.

Q:

Where does Ernst & Young have offices around the world?

A:

Ernst & Young has 144,000 people working across the world in 140 countries. Take a look at our Location map.

Q:

How do I choose which service line to join?

A:

The right choice for you will reflect your area of interest and specialisation. Have a good look around our website to get a feel for who we are and the services we offer. Then speak with your lecturers, recruiters, campus careers advisors, friends and family to gather all the information you need to understand where you may best fit. Ernst & Young is growing and expanding in new and exciting business areas, particularly Advisory Services, so there are lots of opportunities for you to consider. Invest time now to research the possibilities, so you can make an informed choice later on.

Q:

Do I need a Chartered Accountancy qualification to join Ernst & Young?

A:

The requirement for Chartered Accountancy qualifications depends on the opportunities you're most interested in and where you apply. You'll find more detailed information about specific qualification requirements in the job descriptions found in Job Search.

Q:

Can I apply for a job outside my home country?

A:

You are able to apply for any open positions you see in any one of our 140 countries that hires graduates. Your eligibility, however, depends on the hiring country’s qualification requirements, employment laws, work permit and/or visa requirements.

Q:

What is the organisation’s policy on flexible working?

A:

We're committed to helping our people succeed professionally and personally. We have a pragmatic approach to supporting individuals in meeting commitments in and out of the office. Through discussion and negotiation, we work together to agree on a framework that meets the needs of our business, our teams, our clients and those of our people. It's an approach that allows you to manage family commitments, or pursue personal passions outside of work. We’re proud that some of our people have participated in the Olympics, written novels and recorded albums alongside pursuing a career at Ernst & Young. Review our staff benefits.

Back to top

Programs

Q:

Do you offer work experience? What program would suit me best?

A:

We don't currently offer work experience placements but during your final year at school you can apply for a cadetship in New South Wales, Queensland or Victoria. If you're in the penultimate year of your degree, you can apply for our Vacationer Program. Please go to student programs for more opportunities. We also recommend checking with your school careers advisor or university career services for more information.

Q:

Where can I find information about the Vacationer Program?

A:

If you're looking to jump-start your career, participating in our Vacationer Program will give you valuable experience and insights. If you're a top performer, you'll be offered a position with us upon completion of your studies. Take a look at the different programs available in the country of your choice and apply now.

Q:

What responsibilities do vacationers have?

A:

Vacationers work with a team just like every other new graduate staff. This means that you'll collect data, complete analyses, prepare presentations, and participate in meetings. Rest assured you will also receive intensive training to help get you started and extensive coaching from the advisors on your team along the way.

Q:

What is the IILC and how can I apply to go?

A:

The International Intern Leadership Conference is an annual event held in Disneyland, Orlando, Florida. It's the largest event of its kind and is attended by over 2000 interns and vacationers from all over the world. IILC gives interns the opportunity to meet and greet our global leadership and learn about our vision and strategy. The conference is by invitation only and is a reward to the best performing interns. If successful, you'll learn from our top leaders, participate in seminars on current global issues and get involved in team activities. It’s a great way to build your global network and your vision of what your future at Ernst & Young might be.

Back to top

Developing your career

Q:

How will I continue to grow as a professional?

A:

We're committed to your ongoing learning and development. We take your individual strengths and learning requirements into account to provide the right blend of experiences, learning and coaching for you. This approach will help to accelerate your progress and support your career goals and aspirations. We call this approach EYU (Ernst & Young and You) and it reflects a mutual commitment to your development. You're responsible for articulating your needs and aspirations and we'll provide the tools and opportunities you need to fulfill them.

Q:

What training is on offer?

A:

Training is a core element of EYU. With our award-winning learning and development programs, you receive the formal training you need through a variety of approaches in the classroom and online. You'll also receive valuable informal training through new experiences and on-the-job coaching and mentoring. See EYU for more information.

Q:

Will Ernst & Young help me get my Chartered Accountant qualification?

A:

Yes, we provide you with assistance to pass the Institute of Chartered Accountant's Chartered Accountant (CA) program and the Graduate Certificate of Chartered Accounting Foundations course. We provide:.

• financial assistance (subject to terms and conditions) and study support material
• study leave
• study support workshops
• business unit support through CA partners and employees
• payment of ICAA membership fees
• merit awards
• a gift to celebrate your successful completion of the program.

We also support the Masters of Tax, Securities Institute of Australia (SIA) and other relevant business, financial and professional courses.

Q:

Once I join what opportunities do I have for working in another country?

A:

We're committed to offering our people international experiences. Once you've spent some time with us, you can apply for a short- or long-term secondment or international mobility program. You'll need a strong performance record to qualify. Speak to your counsellor and he or she will help you identify any suitable opportunities to enhance your career development with some international experience.

Q:

What influence will I have over my career progression?

A:

You own your career at Ernst & Young but developing it is a mutual commitment. You're responsible for articulating your development needs and aspirations. We provide a supportive learning, teaming, high-performance environment that will help you become a highly competent and successful professional. We offer plenty of career options and, wherever possible, we allow flexibility, so you can balance the demands of work and personal life. In return, you take responsibility for your professional and personal growth and for performing at your best every day.

Back to top

Life at Ernst & Young

Q:

What's expected of me in the first few days/weeks/months of my career?

A:

As a Graduate/Vacationer/Cadet/Intern, you're not expected to know your job inside-out on your first day with the firm. Your development will start on day one, where you'll partake in our firm-wide induction and training. Your development will continue progressively throughout your first year - and throughout your entire career with us.

Q:

When will I start work?

A:

Graduate positions commence in the new year, usually between January and April, and some divisions offer a mid-year start (generally in July). Depending on the needs of the business we may be able to offer you some flexibility in terms of your start date. Vacation employment varies in each location but is typically over the summer vacation period running from December until February with a break over the Christmas and New Year period. Our Perth and Adelaide offices also offer a Winter Vacationer program in June/July.

Q:

What hours will I work a week?

A:

Our core hours of work are either from 8.30am to 5.00pm or 8.45am to 5.15pm depending on which state you work in and our work/life policy states that mandatory meetings cannot be scheduled before 8am or after 6pm. However, your hours will vary according to the work or engagement in which you're involved. Occasionally, there may be some weekend work, particularly during busy periods. We encourage teams at all levels to work flexibly and discuss and negotiate how to meet the demands of each engagement. By communicating regularly with your team and counsellor, you'll be able understand their expectations and plan your time effectively.

Q:

What is the average starting salary?

A:

Salaries depend on local market conditions and vary from state to state. Ernst & Young salaries are competitive and our extra benefits - as well as the learning and experiences we offer - make Ernst & Young an employer of choice.

Q:

What do people wear at Ernst & Young?

A:

Our office dress policy is contemporary business wear. However, we're providing a professional service to our clients and they expect us to look the part, so formal business attire is appropriate for meetings with clients. The exception to this rule is when you're based at client sites, in which case you may adopt the client's dress code policy.

Q:

What is the social life like in the office?

A:

Here, you'll find individuals representing a variety of backgrounds, opinions and perspectives but united by a shared set of values. This means that there are plenty of groups and networks built around shared issues and interests. These range from hobbies, sports and creative or intellectual pursuits through to support and volunteer opportunities. They also include groups such as working mothers. Regardless of your background or areas of focus, you'll find colleagues who share your interests.

Q:

What is Ernst & Young's approach to diversity and inclusiveness?

A:

We're committed to creating an environment where all people feel valued, are part of the community and are able to perform at their best. Diversity and inclusiveness are about everyone. It's about welcoming and harnessing diverse viewpoints, and about how this leads to making better decisions for us and for our clients. It's also about operating in a way that helps people to achieve their potential and make a difference, wherever they come from and whatever their characteristics. We believe in developing our people's cultural awareness and skills, including helping them to be aware of their own assumptions, frames of reference and behaviors. To us, diversity and inclusiveness make business sense: it helps us to engage with clients and teams in a global economy. And in a world of shifting demographics, it allows us to navigate efficiently across boundaries.

Q:

The environment is very important, what is Ernst & Young's approach towards sustainability?

A:

We recognise that we have a corporate responsibility to the environment and believe in making it possible for our people to contribute on an individual basis. As an organisation we've implemented various strategies. For example, developing carbon neutral buildings; reducing the need for overseas travel through the use of video and teleconferencing; and sourcing green energy suppliers wherever possible. As an individual, you can participate in one of the eco-teams in our offices that promote responsible practices or you can contribute your time to a charity or organisation that benefits the environment.

Q:

I have personal commitments that are important to me. Can I still join Ernst & Young?

A:

We understand that success is broader than what you achieve at the office. That's why we support one another in attaining life balance, in reaching our personal goals and keeping our personal commitments. Some of our people have participated in professional sports, written novels, recorded albums and achieved a host of personal initiatives while working with us. The key to balancing your professional and personal commitments is communicating often with your team and supervisor and remaining flexible.

Back to top