Frequently asked questions

GENERAL

Apart from permanent vacancies, what other options do you offer?

We understand that the world of work is changing and that more people than ever are now looking at different ways of working.

We regularly offer opportunities on a more flexible basis, including;

1. Casual Worker contracts (inside IR35)
2. Consultancy engagements (outside IR35)
3. Temp (PAYE) engagements

I’m interested in being considered for a contracting role, what do I do next?

We often fill most of these roles quickly, so the easiest way to register your interest is to contact the Non-Payroll team: npl@bdo.co.uk

Please advise the areas of the business you are most interested in and the specialist skills you can bring. We will be in touch should we have any opportunities that match your skill set.

Do you provide reasonable adjustments for your recruitment process?

We are committed to making our assessments fair for all candidates and offer reasonable adjustments based on scientific research and best practices. Depending on your needs and each specific task, these adjustments include extended time, scoring adjustments, or a combination of both.

If you believe you may require an adjustment, please let us know at the point of application so we can apply any necessary adjustments. Instructions of how to do this will be provided to you at each stage. Unfortunately, adjustments cannot be applied once you’ve begun. Adjustments will not disadvantage you in any way in our process.

Would I ever be asked for payments from BDO?

Please note that neither BDO nor any of the organisations that recruit on our behalf will ever ask for any payments from applicants at any point in the recruitment process. All individuals who are offered employment with BDO, are always required to go through a formal recruitment process.

There are several things you need to watch out for. Fraudulent recruitment activities often include the following:

• Requiring money from applicants (e.g. for ‘visa fees’, taxes, a percentage of travel expenses)
• Unrealistic compensation-and benefits packages
• Requesting personal information such as passport and bank account details at an early stage of the process
• Sending emails from free web-based email accounts such as Yahoo, Gmail, Hotmail or Live.com
• Using poorly formatted documentation

If you suspect a recruitment fraud, we recommend that you do not respond to unsolicited business propositions and/or offers from people with whom you are unfamiliar. If you ever have doubts regarding the legitimacy of any communications or any other information relating to BDO, please email your concern or question to experiencedhireteam@bdo.co.uk.

We take recruitment fraud very seriously. We thank you in advance for taking the time to inform us; it is much appreciated.

LIFE AT BDO

How will you support my wellbeing?

We aim to create a positive working environment and way of working where our people can thrive, are happy and each bring their best self to work. Advice on practising BDO’s 5 Ways of Wellbeing – Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, Give – can be found on the Welcome Portal, along with other health and wellbeing support.

What is the culture like at BDO?

BDO’s Unifying culture is fundamental to our success. We pride ourselves on our inclusive and empowering culture that encourages people to be themselves, work together and deliver exceptional client service to achieve their potential. You can read more here.

What societies/networks can I get involved in at BDO?

We have a number of networks representing and promoting the interests of different communities within the BDO workforce. These include: African Caribbean Heritage Network, PRIDE (our LGBTQ+ network), CEDAR (Celebrating Ethnic Diversity and Roots) Network, Christian Network, East and Southeast Asian Network, Enabled (Disabilities and long-term health conditions) Network, BDO Inspire (our women’s network), Islamic Network, Jewish Network and Working Parents & Carers Network.

Everyone at BDO has 10 paid days a year to devote to sharing time and skills with the community, or for those part-time this is on a pro rata basis. This is done in a structured way – known as 5+5 – so it’s collaborative and sociable. Five days can be used for personal volunteering, fundraising, team giving and BDO-sponsored activities – we call them action days. Five further days are called strategic days – where people can use their professional skillsets to really make a difference.

We also have Wellbeing Champions, Citizenship Champions and Environmental Champions across the firm.

SPONSORSHIP

What are the eligibility criteria for BDO’s Early Careers Programmes?

I completed my studies outside of the UK. How can I tell if I am eligible to make an application?

You can verify your international qualifications using the National Academic Recognition Information Centre (NARIC). You will be responsible for the cost of translating them before you apply. Click here to find out more.

I finished my studies a few years ago can I still apply for an early careers programme?

Yes, we welcome you to apply if you finished your studies a few years ago, if you meet all eligibility requirements and do not have employment history from an accountancy background.

I already hold or anticipate applying for a Graduate Visa. Will I be able to apply for a Graduate Programme?

Unfortunately, due to the recent immigration rules changes made by the Home Office to the duration of the Graduate Visa and the minimum salary thresholds we are unable to accept applications from individuals holding or requiring a Graduate Visa. We welcome applications from candidates who have their own legal right to work within the UK. It is your responsibility to ensure you have the legal right to work for the duration of your employment. You can check www.gov.uk/legal-right-work-uk to see which documents give you the legal right to work in the UK.

I do not have the Right to Work in the UK and require sponsorship. Can I apply to your early careers’ programmes?

We are unfortunately unable to provide visa sponsorship for any of our early career’s programmes as they do not meet the current minimum salary requirements for sponsorship set by the Home Office, and we are therefore unable to progress applications from candidates requiring visa sponsorship.

We welcome applications from candidates who have their own legal right to work within the UK throughout the duration of their training and employment. For all roles, you’ll be asked to provide evidence of your legal right to work during the application process. It is your responsibility to obtain the legal right to work for the duration of your training and employment. You are also required to notify us immediately if your immigration status changes after you’ve applied for a role as this may impact any offer we are able to make to you. We cannot progress your application if you do not have the appropriate right to work status.

Please note that if you have a valid UK visa that gives you the legal right to work in the UK, it must be within your current passport or as an eVisa accessible on your UKVI account, or other acceptable evidence which allows for the right to work check to be conducted in line with the applicable right to work legislation at the time. You can check www.gov.uk/legal-right-work-uk to see which documents give you the legal right to work in the UK.

Can I apply if I am a Filipino national?

Filipino Candidates requiring visa sponsorship must be able to produce a Processing of Overseas Employment Certificate (POEC) at the point of application.

Do I need to disclose a criminal conviction if it is spent?

Please disclose all criminal convictions on your application form and a member of the team will be in touch. These are dealt with on a case-by-case basis and will depend on individual circumstances.

What does the application involve?

Start by completing a short online application form. If you're successful, you'll move on to an online assessment. Success there leads to a video interview. The final stage is our assessment centre, which also includes a separate interview at the end.

Can I apply to more than one programme or office location?

When you submit your application, you will be able to select up to two roles. You cannot submit a second application.

I am unsure which programme I should apply to?

We have lots of information on our programmes on our Student Career Page.

If I am unsuccessful at any stage, when can I reapply?

Should you wish to reapply to BDO, we welcome one application per season, so please wait until next season to reapply.

Are the assessments timed?

Some elements of our online assessment process are timed such as the video interview. It will be clear which parts are timed at the beginning of each section so please keep an eye out for this.

Can I use online tools like ChatGPT to help me during my application?

There are parts of the application process where you are allowed to use AI tools, and parts of the process where you are not. For a full outline and guidance, read our AI page.

EARLY CAREERS ONLINE ASSESSMENT AND ASSESSMENT CENTRE

What is your assessment centre and interview process?

If you are applying for an Industrial Placement or Summer Internship then you will have a Virtual Assessment Centre. The Virtual Assessment Centre is a chance to find out more about the roles and whether they are right for you. You’ll take part in a continuous assessment with some key objectives to achieve by the end of the day.

If you are applying for a Graduate or School Leaver role then your first stage of the assessment process will be a Virtual Assessment Centre. If you are successful at this stage you will be invited for a final, in-person interview, where you’ll also get the opportunity to meet some of your potential colleagues and get more of a feel of the culture at BDO.

If I am invited to complete the interactive assessment, how can I prepare for this?

There will be a chance to practice the online assessments before you start your assessment. More details of this will be sent to you once you have made your online application. If you have any special requirements, please get in touch.

Why do I have to do an assessment?

We ask you to sit our assessment so we can assess your suitability for our programmes. We also want to make sure the role would be a right fit for you.

Can I choose what assessment centre I attend?

Yes, we will give you the available dates and you can chose the date that is suitable.

What should I do if I can no longer attend my assessment centre?

Please contact your Resourcing Adviser as soon as you can to let them know. We can advise if an alternative date would be available to you.

What happens if my computer crashes half-way through a test?

Don’t panic! All you need to do is log back in; the system will let you carry on from where you were. If you encounter further technical issues, please screenshot the page you are on and email earlyincareer@bdo.co.uk and we will be in touch to help resolve the problem.

Are the assessments timed?

Some elements of our online assessment process are timed such as the video interview. It will be clear which parts are timed at the beginning of each section so please keep an eye out for this.

How will I find out if I have been offered a role?

You will receive the good news via a phone call from the Early Careers team.

Can I claim back my travel when attending the final interview for graduates and school leavers?

Yes, you can claim up to £150. Please email our Early in Careers team on earlyincareer@bdo.co.uk for more information.

Programme information

What graduate and school leaver programmes do you offer?

We have programmes available in Tax, Audit and Advisory. click here to find out more about the available programmes.

What programmes do you offer for students still studying?

Find out more about all available programmes click here.

For university students, we offer industrial placements and summer internships. Our Summer Internship programme is a 6-week paid programme from July to August. This gives penultimate year students the opportunity to gain real insight into our business and culture and potential fast track for our graduate programme once you have completed your studies.

Our 12-month Industrial Placement Programme is your chance to experience a breadth of opportunity within BDO and build a platform to develop your career. This could also lead to an offer of a graduate role.

For University students with a Black heritage in the first year of a three-year course or second year of a four-year course, we have our Black Heritage insight programme available. On our Black Heritage Insight programme, you’ll develop your knowledge of accounting and gain exposure to BDO and our people - which could lead to an offer of a summer internship and a paid role as a university Brand Ambassador.

I am currently doing my A-Levels, is there a programme I can do?

Find out more about all available programmes click here.

Our Explore BDO summer insight programme is available for eligible students in Years 11-13 to find out more about the world of accounting. Learn about the industry, develop your professional skills and meet people from all across our business.

You can also apply to our School Leaver programme which you can start after you have completed your A-levels. This is a four-year programme allowing you to combine work experience with professional qualifications.

We would also recommend that you look at BDO Hive which gives you access to Mentors within BDO as well as training modules to enhance your skills and experience.

Are your programmes rotational?

Our graduate programme offers you in depth experience within the team you have been offered a role and does not offer rotations. You will work on different projects throughout your programme to develop a wide range of skillsets and knowledge.

Does BDO offer any work experience?

Yes! Our virtual work experience is the perfect introduction into the world of accounting. You’ll navigate through a series of informative modules that provide an overview of BDO, including insights into our culture, various business streams, and our commitment to sustainability. Each module includes interactive quizzes to test your newly gained knowledge along the way. It’s a great opportunity to explore your career opportunities and interests and learn useful skills along the way. Once you complete all modules, you’ll receive a personalised certificate as well as further engagement and learning opportunities with BDO to support you along your career exploration journey. Click here to apply.

We are very excited to announce that in the new academic year, we will be launching BDO’s highly anticipated face-to-face work experience programme – keep an eye out as more information will be released soon!

Don’t forget we have other opportunities such as our Summer Internships and Insight Days, which provide an opportunity for you to get to know our firm. You can find out more about these here.

Can I work in another BDO office?

You will complete your early careers programme at your offered location for the full duration of the programme and are not able to switch office locations. Upon completion of the programme, you will have the opportunity to apply for a role at any preferred location/team.

When do your applications open and close?

Most of our applications will open in late September and the closing date varies on the programme. Please click here for more information about our programmes or check out the individual job posting for the applicable closing date per programme.

APPRENTICESHIPS

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a nationally recognised qualification that you can study while you work. It offers a combination of relevant work experience, achievement of a professional qualification and the development of skills and behaviours required to be a competent professional in your chosen field. At BDO this relates to becoming a professional Accountant or Tax professional.

If you successfully complete an apprenticeship at BDO you will gain two qualifications/certifications: your professional qualification and the apprenticeship.

Where can I find out more about apprenticeships?

BDO is committed to supporting the government’s apprenticeship initiative, and we offer many of our study programmes in the form of apprenticeship programmes. Please click here to find out more about apprenticeships at BDO.

How do apprenticeships relate to university-level qualifications?

Apprenticeships give you the flexibility to start working and studying towards your professional qualification at a time that is best for you, whether that is after you have completed you’re a levels or attended university.

I’m a graduate, why would I be interested in an apprenticeship qualification?

Apprenticeships can be studied up to the equivalent of Master’s level, in conjunction with many professional tax and accountancy qualifications such as ACA and CTA. This makes them ideal workplace study routes for graduates.

However, apprenticeships aren’t simply about technical knowhow. They also cover broader business skills such as communicating with clients, problem-solving, team leadership… everything you need to become a fully rounded finance, audit or tax professional.

What qualifications can I achieve as an apprentice at BDO?

• ACA Association of Chartered Accountants
• ACA/CTA Joint Prog. Association of Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisor
• ICAS RGU – School Leavers only, ICAS qualification offered in partnership with Robert Gordon University
• ATT/CTA Tax Pathway – Association of Taxation technician and Chartered Tax Advisor

How does BDO support its apprentices?

• Structured training and support to help set you up for success in both your qualification and your career
• Training in knowledge, skills and behaviours relevant to your role
• Study leave, study support and exam fees for a relevant professional qualification
• Support of a buddy, where appropriate an apprenticeship coach and an individual People Manager

What does an apprenticeship cost?

There is no cost to you, the apprentice. Apprenticeships are funded by a levy that BDO pays into the national scheme, and by the government.

How long does an apprenticeship take to complete?

If you join us as a graduate, you can expect to spend around 36 months gaining your professional and apprenticeship qualifications. Non-graduates typically take 48 months to attain the same level.

What happens if I’m not eligible for an apprenticeship?

Whilst the majority of our trainees join on an apprenticeship route, not everyone will be eligible, this could be for a number reasons, most commonly because you already have an equivalent level qualification or have previously been in the UK on a student visa. Should you not be eligible under an apprenticeship, do not worry, you can still join BDO and study towards your professional qualification with the same high level of robust tuition and support.

Not all qualifications being offered, eg Actuarial and CFAB are apprenticeship programmes.

As a trainee, how will I be inducted to BDO?

In the weeks leading up to your start date you will be sent key information and reading to help get you ready for your role at BDO. Much of this will be delivered via the Welcome Portal. You will be notified of access to the portal closer to your start date.

You will have a dedicated Early Careers Induction where you will hear from your Partner Sponsor, and a range of speakers such as current trainees, BDO Partners, Training Providers and Institutes – it’s a great opportunity to hear what life is really like at BDO and ask questions. Full details on the induction will be provided on the Welcome Portal.

QUALIFICATIONS

Can I apply if I am a part-qualified accountant?

Yes, but please bear in mind, you must submit your previous exam transcripts for us to determine whether you are eligible for our programmes. If you’ve had any relevant previous employment experience you may wish to consider going through the experienced hire route at BDO. Unfortunately, we cannot accept your application for our graduate and apprenticeship programmes if you are already qualified.

What qualifications will I be gaining while working for BDO?

Depending on the stream you work for we will set the qualification you work towards.

For our graduate programmes we support the following:

• ICAS
• ICAS Knowledge – Technical Pathway
• Actuarial
• ACA
• ATT/CTA
• ACA/CTA
• CISI
• CFAB - IIA 
• CFAB – Technical Pathway (which could include CISA or BCS)
• CFAB – CFA

For our school leaver apprenticeship programmes, we support the following:

• ATT/CTA
• ACA/CTA
• ACA
• ICAS RGU Degree Apprenticeship

To find out more information about what qualifications you can study for at BDO, visit here.

COMBINING WORK AND STUDY WITH BDO

Is the offer with BDO just for the training period, or will BDO offer me a long-term career?

Whether you apply for the graduate or school leaver programme, once you are accepted you are a permanent employee. Gaining your qualifications is just the start: you can look forward to a long, varied and exciting career.

Will the study be more challenging than what I have experienced to date?

Yes, this will be a step up from previous studies you have undertaken at school, college or university as you will need to balance work and study. However, there is plenty of support available to ensure you are successful.

What support will I have to manage studies and working at the same time?

A People Manager in your department will support your performance, development and progression. You will also be assigned a buddy who has followed a similar study path to you, and so can offer first-hand advice and tips. Additionally, our dedicated Professional Qualifications (PQ) team are always there to help you and answer any questions.

Is there face-to-face tuition or is it online and self-managed learning?

You’ll learn through a blend of face-to-face tuition and self-directed study via specialist online learning platforms. We use only industry-leading tuition providers, so all tuition, however it is delivered, is of the highest quality.

Will I need to travel for my induction/college/training?

Each BDO office has been aligned to a local or regional tuition provider. In some instances, travel may be required to access face-to-face tuition. For those joining the Audit or Tax practice, there may be some offsite departmental training. Details of any travel or accommodation for departmental induction training will be advised via the Welcome Portal.

If I am eligible to apply for exam exemptions, how do I go about this?

You may be able to apply for exemptions. Look at the relevant institute’s Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) directory to find out more. Please also check the Welcome Portal as BDO may require you to take some examinations even if you have an exemption.

I have extenuating circumstances impacting my academic results, how do inform you?

Please inform us of any extenuating circumstances on your application form and a member of the team will be in touch with further information.