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EY Careers Guide

EY Careers Guide

Visit the EY Careers Guide to help you make the right career choice: it's an introduction to the world of careers, your options and the skills you need to succeed.

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Meet some of our interns and find out why they enjoy being part of our global organisation.

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We’d love to meet you

Choosing where to start your career is an important decision. We know that you’re probably considering several options, including Ernst & Young.

That’s no problem: we’re here to help you understand what life at Ernst & Young is like, to show you the chances you’ll have to thrive and to demonstrate how you can develop your career once you’re part of our team.

You’re in the right place to learn more about our application process and what we look for.

Application process

Careers

There are eight steps to complete before your first day at Ernst & Young. Find out exactly how the process works.

What we look for

Careers

We recruit people from all kinds of backgrounds and with all sorts of skills. However, we do look for some common values.

Interview tips

Careers

An interview is your chance to tell us about yourself and what you’d bring to Ernst & Young.

Frequently asked questions

Careers

The details about our application and selection process. Includes information about creating and accessing your online profile.

Student events

Careers

A great way to learn about the opportunities at Ernst & Young is to come and meet us on campus. Find out where and when.

 

 

What are strengths?

A recruitment process is meant to be challenging.

It is important to us that you get the opportunity to show us who you really are, what your strengths are and if you have the attributes we need in our people. This is why we took the bold step to implement strengths-based recruitment for all our graduate and schools opportunities.

So what is a strength? Professor Alex Linley, who helped design our selection methodology, describes a Strength as “a pre-existing capacity for a particular way of behaving, thinking, or feeling that is authentic and energising to the user, and enables optimal functioning, development and performance”.

Understanding and utilising your strengths will help us define you as a person, and enable you to perform at your best in a role and have a fulfilling professional life.

We create all our assessment tools by looking at the successful people in our business and then design challenging and unbiased tests to assess your strengths. Every year we re-validate our all of our methods to ensure they work.

What are we looking for?

In general, we're much more interested in the kind of person you are and the things you're naturally good at than what degree you studied at university. So we want you to be yourself and show us what you've got. As you'd expect, we also ask you to have some minimum qualifications, so be sure to check the requirements when you apply.

The exact qualifications you'll need will depend on the programme you apply for. But here's what we usually look for:

  • Grade B or above for GCSE Mathematics and English Language
  • 300 UCAS points or equivalent (excluding General Studies and re-sits)
  • 2.1 degree in any discipline.

Assessing strengths, not just qualifications

Understanding and utilising your strengths will help us define you as a person, and enable you to perform at your best in a role and have a fulfilling professional life.

Choose

Log on to www.ey.com/uk/careers where you can search our Graduate and Undergraduate opportunities that we are accepting applications for. You'll find this under the Apply Now section.

Apply

Our application is made up of two parts:

  1. Complete our online application form. This is your chance to tell us about yourself and achievements to date.
  2. Complete an online strengths assessment. Once you've registered and hit the Apply button, you will receive an email link to complete this assessment. Please do so within 3 days of submitting your online application. Try our sample strengths test to get an idea of what to expect before you complete the strengths assesment.

We will send you an email to complete this part of the process once you have submitted an online application form. The strengths assessment will ask you to read a series of scenarios and then choose how you would respond in each scenario. The questions will require you to select one response, or rank your responses in order. The strengths assessment should take around 30 minutes for you to complete.

You will receive a decision on your application once both parts have been submitted.

Psychometric Tests

Providing you are successful at application you will be require to complete some online psychometric tests to test your verbal, numeric and logical reasoning ability.

Interview

You will be invited to attend an interview which will ask you to demonstrate your strengths and your motivation for joining Ernst & Young. We want to get to know you, so relax and be yourself.

Assessment Centre

You will take part in various activities such as a team meeting, written report and an interview. This will give you a better feel for Ernst & Young and helps us learn more about you.

Join

If you've accepted onto the programme, we'll tell you everything you need to know about what happens next.

If you want to defer entry, do ask us if this is possible.

Where you can work
These are some of the locations graduates can join us:

  • Aberdeen
  • Belfast
  • Birmingham
  • Bristol
  • Cambridge
  • Cork
  • Dublin
  • Edinburgh
  • Glasgow
  • Guernsey
  • Hull
  • Inverness
  • Jersey
  • Leeds
  • Limerick
  • Liverpool
  • London
  • Luton
  • Manchester
  • Newcastle
  • Nottingham
  • Reading
  • Southampton
  • Waterford

Varied backgrounds, similar values

The kind of person you are and the things you’re naturally good at can bring a lot to our business. So don’t think you’re not the right type, or you haven’t studied the right subjects – because we want people from a wide range of backgrounds.

However, we do look for some common attributes from our people. If this list describes you, get ready to put in your application.

You excel at what you do

High academic achievements are one thing. But demonstrating leadership and achievement away from your core studies – and simply getting involved – is just as important to us.

You show integrity

Our people know the difference between right and wrong and behave with a clear sense of accountability. To get on at Ernst & Young, you need to be as committed to doing the right thing as we are.

You behave with respect

It’s important you recognise and understand the value of different backgrounds and points of view, because those differences are key to our success.

You’re good in teams

You’ll be part of a team from the very first day you start work at Ernst & Young. So it’s vital you can listen, learn, share, develop and work effectively with other people – even if they’re different from you.

You have energy, enthusiasm and courage

We get excited about our work, our clients, and the amazing things we help them to do. We look for people who are naturally enthusiastic about new ideas and who can’t wait to see what the next day brings.

Find out how our application process works, or come and meet us at an event near you.

Interview tips

We conduct strengths based interviews which have been designed in such a way that it encourages applicants to be open & honest in their responses. We are looking for you to demonstrate your natural strengths.

  • Learn as much as you can about Ernst & Young, who we are, our services and strategic direction. Make sure you can articulate how your strengths and career goals are aligned with ours and why you think you’ll succeed in our organisation.
  • Prepare a list of questions for your interviewer(s) so you can assess whether Ernst & Young is the right place to launch your career. Ask us questions about our organisation, our clients, the opportunities we can offer you and what you can expect from us.
  • Try to relax and remember that we’re interested in the real you. Our interviewers are trained to get the best from you in the time you've got in the recruitment process, so enjoy it! Make sure you listen to each question the interviewer is asking and think about your best example.
  • Talk to us. Come along to one of our events on campus and ask our current graduates what it's really like to work at Ernst & Young.
  • Visit your careers service for advice on completing your application form and practising interviews.

Find out how our application process works, or read our FAQs for detailed information.

Frequently asked questions

If you've got a question find out more in the sections below:

 

Applying to Ernst & Young

How can I find out which graduate vacancies are available?

For a complete list of open positions, go to 'Job search'. We recruit on a first come, first served basis. Once we have filled a vacancy and / or location, you will not longer be able to apply for that particular role. Therefore we recommend that you apply as soon as possible.

How do I start the application process?

Search our website to identify your area of interest, then go to 'Job search' and apply online. You'll find specific requirements in the job description. Find out more about our recruiting process.

How has the current economy affected your graduate recruiting efforts?

People are our most valuable resource so 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.

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

There are several ways to find out more about our process and programmes. Attend one of our events on campus to meet some of our current graduates and ask them questions, or talk to one of our Student Ambassadors who've been on one of our internship programmes. And you can contact the graduate recruitment team or call 0800 289 208. All these people can help you make an informed decision about pursuing a career with Ernst & Young.

What happens once we receive your application?

As soon as we receive your application, we'll acknowledge it by email. A member of our recruitment team screens each form. If your application meet our requirements, we'll invite you to the next stage of the recruitment process, which will be completion of our online tests At each stage we'll let you know the decision within 72 hours at most.

Can I apply for graduate positions in the UK if I need a work permit?

Yes, if you need permission to work in the UK, you will be referred to our immigration team. But you will need to have received and accepted an offer from us by the published deadlines, because of the time it takes to complete this process. We can't begin the process until we have certified proof of your degree.

To join one of our graduate programmes, you must have the necessary permission to work in the UK. If you're unsure about your eligibility to work in the UK, please see www.ukvisas.gov.uk for more information. Please be aware that the UK immigration policy is currently being reviewed by the UK government which may impact your Certificate of Sponsorship application. The work permit deadline for September 2013 graduate programmes is Tuesday 30 April 2013. Please note, for March 2013 graduate programmes the work permit deadline is Friday 9 November 2012.

Due to the prevailing UK immigration rules, there will be a deadline for applications from Romanian and Bulgarian nationals that will be required to apply for authorisation to work in the UK. The deadline is Friday 1 March 2013.

Do I need a business, finance or accountancy degree to apply for a graduate position at Ernst & Young?

No, we welcome applicants from all degree backgrounds: it's your intellectual ability and natural strengths that matter to us. Some of our most successful people have studied subjects totally unrelated to the work they do.

Can I apply for deferred entry?

We understand that not everyone is ready to start their career the day after graduation. If we offer you a job, we'll be happy to talk to you about deferred entry.

What are you minimum academic requirements? If I don't meet them, can I still apply?

Most of our graduate and undergraduate vacancies require at least 300 (24) UCAS points at A level / Scottish Higher (excluding General Studies and re-sits), a minimum B grade in GCSE Mathematics and English Language and a 2:1 honours degree (predicted or obtained). Some business units require more, or ask for specific degree subjects. For example, our Business Advisory and Corporate Finance roles require 320 (26) UCAS points.

In very exceptional circumstances, we'll accept applications from people who don't meet our academic requirements. If this is your case, you'll need to provide strong justification for why we should consider your application.

If I'm not successful this time, can I apply again?

Yes, but we accept only one application per person within a 12-month period. If you are not offered a graduate position following a summer internship or industrial placement, you can re-apply for a graduate position 12 months after the completion of your placement.

If you have applied for an undergraduate programme and are unsuccessful at interview or assessment stage, you can re-apply for a graduate position after a 12-month period.

I wasn't invited to the next stage of the recruitment process – can I get feedback on my application?

We receive around 17,000 applications a year for around 1,000 positions. Unfortunately, the sheer number of applications we receive means we can't give individual feedback at the early stages of our recruitment process. If you're unsuccessful after your assessment centre or final interview, one of our graduate recruiters would be happy to give you personal feedback over the phone.

I graduated a few years ago. Can I still apply for a graduate position?

Absolutely. We are very happy to accept applications from students who have already graduated.

Do you accept CVs?

No – to ensure we treat all applicants equally and fairly, you must use our online application form. If you're unable to complete your form online and have any special requirements, please contact our recruitment team at 0800 289 208 or gradrec@uk.ey.com

What if my personal details change?

You can change your personal details online at any time; just log on to your account and make your amendments.

What documentation will I need to produce before joining the firm?

You'll need to provide original certificates for your GCSE Mathematics and English, A level and degree qualifications on your first day with us. We'll also need to see confirmation of your right to work in the UK, for example your passport or equivalent.

I've looked everywhere on this site, but I can't find the answer to an important query. Can I contact you directly?

Yes. If you've looked carefully and can't find an important piece of information, you can contact us at gradrec@uk.ey.com or on 0800 289 208.

 

Working at Ernst & Young

How is Ernst & Young structured?

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

Where does Ernst & Young have offices around the world?

Ernst & Young has 167,000 people working in 140 countries around the world. Take a look at our location map.

How do I choose which service line to join?

The right choice for you will reflect your area of interest and specialisation. Have a look around our website to get a feel for who we are and what services we offer, and speak to us on campus to gather all the information you need to understand where you may fit best. Ernst & Young is expanding into new and exciting business areas, so there are lots of options to consider. Take the time now to research the possibilities so you can make an informed choice later on.

Can I apply for a job outside my home country?

You may apply for any open positions you see in any one of the 140 countries in which we hire graduates. Your eligibility though depends on the hiring country's qualification requirements, employment laws, work permit and/or visa requirements. Please visit the country website you wish to work in and view the current vacancies available.

What is the organisation's policy on flexible working?

We're committed to helping our people succeed professionally and personally. We have a pragmatic approach to enabling individuals to meet commitments in and out of the office. We work together to agree on a framework which meets the needs of our business, our teams, our clients and our people. This approach allows you to manage family commitments or pursue personal passions outside work. We're proud that some of our people have participated in the Olympics, written novels or recorded albums while pursuing a career at Ernst & Young.

 

Programmes

Where can I find information about internships?

If you're looking to jump-start your career, participating in one of our internship programmes will give you valuable experience. If you're a strong performer, you'll be offered a position with us upon completing your studies. Take a look at the different programmes available and apply now.

What responsibilities do interns have?

Interns work in teams just like our new graduate employees. This means you'll collect data, complete analyses, prepare presentations and participate in meetings. You will also receive intensive training to help get you started, as well as extensive coaching from advisors in your team along the way. We aim to help you find out exactly what it is like to work at Ernst & Young.

How can I get involved in my local community?

We have a philosophy of volunteering and strongly encourage you to support your community in any way you can. Each Ernst & Young employee is given two days of paid leave each year to dedicate to corporate responsibility.

Getting involved in these activities can benefit your career too with new ways to build your skills. The more you give, the more you gain.

 

 

Developing your career at Ernst & Young

How will I continue to grow as a professional?

We're committed to your ongoing learning and development. We take your individual strengths and learning requirements into account in order to provide you with the right blend of experience, training and coaching. This approach, which we call EYU (Ernst & Young and You), reflects a mutual commitment to your development and will speed up your progress towards your career goals. You're responsible for articulating your needs and aspirations and we'll provide the tools and opportunities you need to fulfil them.

What training is on offer?

For most of our graduate programmes you will be required to take a professional qualification in addition to relevant technical training. Please visit each programme page for information on the professional qualification provided for that vacancy.

Training is a core element of EYU. On our award-winning learning and development programmes 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.

What influence will I have over my career progression?

You're in charge of 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, high-performing, team learning environment to help you become a highly competent and successful professional. We offer many career options and we allow flexibility wherever possible, so you can balance the demands of work and your personal life. In return, you take responsibility for your professional and personal growth and for performing at your best every day.

 

Life at Ernst & Young

What hours will I work a week?

There's no typical week at Ernst & Young. Your hours will vary according to the work or engagement in which you're involved. Occasionally you may need to work at weekends, particularly during busy periods. We encourage teams at all levels to work flexibly and discuss how to meet the demands of each engagement. By talking to your team and supervisor, you'll know what's expected of you and be able plan your time effectively.

What is the social life like in the office?

Here you'll find individuals with a variety of backgrounds and opinions united by a shared set of values. There are many groups and networks built around shared issues and interests, ranging from hobbies, sports and creative or intellectual pursuits to volunteer and support groups, for example for working mothers. Regardless of your background or areas of focus, you'll find colleagues who share them.

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

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.

The environment is very important. What is Ernst & Young's approach to sustainability?

We recognise our corporate responsibility to the environment and believe in making it possible for our people to contribute to it individually. 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 promoting responsible practices in our offices, or you can contribute your time to a charity or body that benefits the environment.

How can I get involved with my local community?

We have a philosophy of volunteering and strongly encourage you to support your community in any way you can. Each Ernst & Young employee is given two days' paid leave each year to dedicate to corporate responsibility.

I have personal commitments which matter to me. How will that work at Ernst & Young?

We understand that success means more than just what you achieve at the office. That's why we support one another in attaining life balance, reaching our personal goals and carrying out our personal commitments. The key to balancing your professional and personal commitments is talking to your team and supervisor and remaining flexible.

 

Come and say hello

If you really want to find out what Ernst & Young is like and meet some of the people who’ve been through the graduate recruitment process, come along to one of our events on campus.

You can chat to people who successfully completed our graduate recruitment process, question fellow students who’ve been on one of our programmes – and get a feel for who we are and what makes us tick. Oh – and you can ask us anything you like.

Find out about upcoming events.

Welcome to the Ernst & Young online recruitment system

Here you can search and apply for our graduate and undergraduate vacancies across the UK and Ireland.


2013 applications
We are now recruiting for our 2013 graduate, undergraduate &  schools vacancies. Any programmes or service lines not listed are currently not open for applications, however please check back regularly for updates.

Apply online

How to apply
Our application process is straight forward and should take approximately 1.5 hours to complete. The step by step guide below outlines the process and will help you navigate our global recruitment system.

  • View a list of business areas and locations for graduate opportunities, and choose the vacancy and location you would like to apply to.

  • Register your details – these will be your secure log-on details and you will need them every time you access your application.
  • Complete the application process: 
    • The online application form is split into sections – personal details, education and experience.
    • You will have the opportunity to upload any relevant documents at the end of the application – however you do not need to attach your CV or a cover letter.
    • When adding your university of study under the education section of the application form, please specify the name of the University only (not the specific college) i.e. University of Cambridge. This helps with tracking your application.
    • You can save and log out of your application as many times as you like.
    • The system will time-out after 45mins of inactivity. To ensure you do not lose any part of your application click 'save and continue' regularly.
    • Please note that this is Ernst & Young's global recruitment system and some of the terminology may not be UK specific.
    • We will only accept one active application per person.
    • The system is accessible for disabled candidates. If you have any problems or need assistance completing your application online please contact the graduate recruitment team. Once you press the submit button you will receive an automatic email acknowledging the receipt of the first part of your application.
  • You will then receive an email asking you to complete our strengths assessment which is the second part of your application. The strengths assessment will ask you to read a series of scenarios and then choose how you would respond in each scenario. The questions will require you to select one response, or rank your responses in order. The strengths assessment should take around 30 minutes for you to complete.
  • Your application will then be reviewed by our graduate recruitment team.
  • Check your emails regularly – you will be informed of the outcome of your application within 3 working days.
  • Update your contact details regularly to ensure you can be contacted by our graduate recruitment team.

Apply online

If you have any queries regarding your application or any aspects of our recruitment process, contact us on 0800 289 208 or e-mail: gradrec@uk.ey.com

Good luck!