KPMG's 2027 graduate recruitment runs in four stages: online application, online immersive assessment (cognitive, behavioural and situational tests), a recorded video interview, and a final assessment centre with a group exercise, written task and partner interview. Every stage is eliminatory — you cannot progress without passing the previous one.
This guide covers the 2027 intake at KPMG — applications open in 2026 and are reviewed on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you the strongest chance. Confirm exact dates on KPMG's official careers page.
Programs & Timelines
KPMG recruits for Audit, Tax, Deal Advisory, Consulting, and Technology & Engineering programmes across the UK. Applications typically open in early autumn for the following year's intake and run on a rolling basis — popular programmes like Consulting and Deal Advisory can close months before the published deadline. Always check KPMG's official careers page for the exact dates of your chosen programme.
Round 1: Online Immersive Assessment
This is the first real filter and where most candidates are cut. KPMG's immersive assessment combines several test types in one sitting: numerical and verbal reasoning, situational judgement scenarios based on real KPMG client situations, and behavioural questions mapping to KPMG's values. What it tests: raw cognitive ability under time pressure, plus whether your judgement matches how KPMG expects its people to act with clients. The biggest mistake is treating the situational judgement section like a personality quiz — every scenario has better and worse answers, and random clicking shows up in the scoring. Prepare by drilling timed numerical and verbal tests for two weeks, and for the situational section, read KPMG's values and ask yourself "what would a KPMG manager do here" on every scenario.
Round 2: Recorded Video Interview
If you pass the assessment, you get a HireVue-style recorded video interview: typically 4–6 questions, around 1–2 minutes of preparation and 2–3 minutes to answer each, no retakes. Expect motivational questions ("Why KPMG?", "Why this programme?") and competency questions ("Tell me about a time you worked in a team under pressure"). What it tests: communication clarity, genuine motivation, and whether you can structure an answer on the spot. Rambling for the full three minutes on every question is the classic fail — two tight minutes beat three loose ones. Prepare three stories (teamwork, challenge, motivation) in STAR format and rehearse them out loud with a timer; on camera, energy reads lower than you think, so aim for 20% more enthusiasm than feels natural.
Round 3: Assessment Centre
The final stage, usually a half-day, virtual or in person. It has three components. The group exercise puts 5–6 candidates on a business case discussion while assessors score collaboration, not dominance — talking over people fails you faster than saying nothing. The written exercise tests whether you can turn messy information into a clear client-ready recommendation under time pressure. The partner interview is a final fit check: commercial awareness, motivation, and whether the partner would trust you in front of a client. Prepare by doing two timed mock group exercises with friends, writing one practice client memo against the clock, and preparing three sharp questions that show you follow KPMG's deals and sector news.
FAQ
How long does the KPMG 2027 recruitment process take?
From application to offer typically takes 6–10 weeks, though rolling recruitment means early applicants often move faster through the pipeline.
Can I apply to two KPMG programmes at once?
No — KPMG allows one application per recruitment season. Pick the programme that best fits your background before submitting.
What score do I need on the KPMG online assessment?
KPMG doesn't publish cut scores, and they vary by programme. Aim for the top quartile on numerical and verbal reasoning; the situational judgement section is scored against KPMG's behavioural benchmarks.
Is the KPMG video interview live or recorded?
Recorded. You answer pre-set questions to camera with no interviewer present and no option to re-record.
Applying to KPMG? Our 2027 KPMG Online Assessment & Video Interview prep covers every round — $79 one-time, instant download.
