In an era where the average college graduate carries over $30,000 in student loan debt, and total U.S. student debt has surpassed $1.7 trillion, the financial burden of higher education has become particularly acute for accounting students. These future financial professionals, trained to analyze compound interest and debt-to-income ratios, understand better than most the long-term implications of educational borrowing.
The accounting profession’s unique scholarship ecosystem represents more than financial aid—it constitutes a strategic talent pipeline connecting students with premier professional services firms. The Big 4 firms (Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG), alongside major regional firms, have developed these programs as investments in their future workforce, creating opportunities that extend far beyond tuition assistance.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Strategic Value of Accounting Firm Scholarships
- Understanding the Big 4’s Industry Dominance
- The CPA Pipeline Challenge
- Distinguishing Features of Accounting Firm Scholarships
- Big 4 Firm Scholarship Programs
- Major Regional Firm Scholarships
- Application Success Strategies
- Frequently Asked Questions
Smart accounting students recognize that these scholarships offer returns beyond the immediate financial relief: professional network access, resume differentiation, reduced financial stress, early career advantages, and mentorship opportunities.
As you explore options for accounting degree programs, understanding these scholarship opportunities becomes crucial for managing educational costs while building your professional network.
Understanding the Big 4’s Industry Dominance
The Big 4 accounting firms collectively represent an unprecedented concentration of professional influence:
- Audit 99% of Fortune 500 companies
- Employ over 1.5 million professionals globally
- Generate combined revenues exceeding $190 billion annually
- Establish industry standards adopted throughout the profession
- Serve as training grounds for future CFOs, controllers, and financial executives
These organizations function not merely as employers but as career accelerators. A Big 4 background creates lasting professional advantages, opening doors throughout one’s career trajectory, whether remaining in public accounting or transitioning to industry, consulting, or entrepreneurship. Understanding how to become an accountant often includes targeting these prestigious firms early in your educational journey.
The CPA Pipeline Challenge
The accounting profession confronts a critical talent shortage. CPA exam candidates have declined by nearly 50% since 2016, while demand for skilled accountants continues expanding. This context transforms firm-sponsored scholarships from charitable endeavors into strategic recruitment tools.
This talent shortage creates unprecedented opportunities for students pursuing CPA licensure requirements, as firms compete aggressively for qualified candidates.
Distinguishing Features of Accounting Firm Scholarships
Career Pipeline Integration
These programs transcend traditional financial aid by combining monetary support with internships, mentoring, and direct pathways to full-time employment. Recipients build careers while reducing educational debt.
Industry-Specific Evaluation Criteria
Unlike general academic scholarships, accounting firm programs evaluate CPA exam eligibility, specific coursework completion, and demonstrated interest in public accounting. Firms assess potential future colleagues, not merely accomplished students.
Long-term Professional Relationships
Many programs, particularly at Big 4 firms, view scholarship recipients as future leaders. Recipients gain access to firm events, networking opportunities, and continuing education support extending beyond graduation.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
The profession’s recognition of its need for diverse perspectives has generated numerous scholarships supporting underrepresented students, creating additional opportunities beyond traditional merit-based awards.
Regional Market Opportunities
While Big 4 firms offer national programs, regional firms provide location-specific scholarships with potentially less competition for students building careers in specific markets.
Big 4 Firm Scholarship Programs
DELOITTE
Deloitte Foundation Accounting Scholars Program
Award Amount: 100% tuition coverage for one academic year
Eligibility Requirements:
- Currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. college or university
- Pursuing undergraduate baccalaureate degree in accounting (finance/business majors with accounting minor also eligible)
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
- Must meet admission standards for participating university’s master’s program
- Demonstrated interest in public accounting career and CPA licensure
- Cannot currently hold CPA certification
- Must complete program by August 2026
Application Process:
The Deloitte Foundation Accounting Scholars Program requires a two-step application process:
- University Application: First, apply for admission to the master’s program at one of the 25 participating universities. Each institution maintains its own admission requirements and deadlines.
- Scholarship Application: Submit a separate scholarship application through your chosen university’s financial aid or accounting department. Applications typically open in January and close between March and April 2025, though specific deadlines vary by institution.
Required Documentation:
- Official transcripts demonstrating accounting coursework
- Resume highlighting leadership and community involvement
- Personal statement addressing career goals in public accounting
- Two letters of recommendation (preferably from accounting professors)
- FAFSA completion (at most institutions)
Selection Process:
Individual universities select recipients based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to public accounting. Selection committees typically include faculty members and may involve Deloitte representatives.
Contact Information:
For program details: Deloitte Foundation
For university-specific questions: Contact individual university accounting departments
Additional Benefits:
- Networking opportunities with Deloitte professionals
- Priority consideration for Deloitte internships
- Mentorship from Deloitte staff
- Professional development workshops
Deloitte Foundation HBCU Scholarship Program
Award Amount: $8,000 (renewable based on maintaining eligibility)
Eligibility Requirements:
- Graduating high school senior entering HBCU as first-year student, OR
- Current community college student transferring to four-year HBCU
- Full-time enrollment status at accredited HBCU
- Minimum 3.0 GPA for renewals
- Demonstrated financial need
Application Process:
Applications are managed through the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF):
Application Timeline:
- Application opens: March 17, 2025
- Application deadline: April 25, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST
- Award notifications: June 2025
- Funds disbursement: August 2025
Required Materials:
- Complete TMCF online application
- Official high school or college transcripts
- Student Aid Report (SAR) from FAFSA
- Two letters of recommendation
- 500-word essay on career aspirations
- Resume or activity list
How to Apply:
- Create account at TMCF Scholarship Portal
- Complete general TMCF application
- Select Deloitte Foundation Scholarship from available programs
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before deadline
PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS (PwC)
PwC START Internship Program
Award Amount: Competitive hourly wages plus potential scholarship funding and full-time offer pathway
Eligibility Requirements:
- Sophomores in 4-year programs or Juniors in 5-year programs
- Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (3.3+ preferred)
- Major in Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field
- For accounting track: must be pursuing 150 credit hours for CPA eligibility
- Strong analytical and communication skills
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
Application Process:
Timeline:
Application Steps:
- Visit PwC Careers Portal
- Create candidate profile with complete information
- Search for “START Internship” positions in preferred location
- Submit online application including:
- Resume (PDF format preferred)
- Unofficial transcripts
- Cover letter addressing interest in PwC
- Responses to behavioral assessment questions
Program Benefits:
- Hands-on client experience
- Assigned mentor and career coach
- National START training conference
- Networking events with partners and staff
- Housing assistance or stipend in select markets
- Potential early offer for Advance internship
- Scholarship opportunities through PwC Foundation
Contact Information:
Email: [email protected]
Campus recruiting contacts available through university career centers
PwC Destination CPA Program
Award Amount: Three-day immersive experience with travel, lodging, and meals covered, plus preferred pathway to internship
Eligibility Requirements:
- Sophomores (4-year) or Juniors (5-year program)
- Accounting major actively pursuing 150 credit hours
- Minimum 3.2 GPA
- Must apply for and be considering 2026 Advance Internship
- Demonstrated leadership and teamwork skills
- Interest in audit or tax career path
Application Process:
Critical Dates:
- Application window: October 1 – November 23
- Destination CPA events: January-February 2025
- Location assignments: December 2024
How to Apply:
- Apply for 2026 Audit or Tax Client Service Advance internship through PwC careers portal
- Complete all required assessments
- Indicate interest in Destination CPA during application
- Successful candidates receive invitation
- Confirm attendance within 72 hours of invitation
ERNST & YOUNG (EY)
Award Amount: Competitive hourly compensation ($25-35/hour depending on location) plus performance bonuses
Eligibility Requirements:
- Undergraduate or graduate students
- Minimum 3.2 GPA (3.5+ highly competitive)
- Major in Accounting, Finance, Business, Economics, or related field
- Available for 8-week minimum internship
- Strong academic record and leadership experience
- Interest in professional services career
Application Process:
Application Windows:
Application Requirements:
- Create profile on EY Careers Site
- Upload required documents:
- Resume highlighting leadership and academic achievements
- Unofficial transcripts
- Cover letter specific to service line interest
- Contact information for two references
Assessment Process:
- Online application review
- HireVue digital interview (5-6 questions, 30 minutes)
- Virtual assessment center (half day)
- Final interviews with service line professionals
Program Structure:
- National Launch Training (first week)
- Client project assignments
- Mentorship program
- Lunch-and-learn sessions
- Networking events
- Final presentation to leadership
Available Tracks:
- Assurance/Audit
- Tax
- Consulting
- Strategy and Transactions
Scholarship Opportunities:
Launch interns in strong standing eligible for:
- EY Academic Excellence Awards ($5,000-$10,000)
- Need-based assistance grants
- CPA exam support funding
Key Contacts:
General inquiries: [email protected]
Regional contacts through university career services
KPMG
KPMG Foundation Minority Accounting Doctoral Scholarship
Award Amount: $10,000 annually, renewable up to 5 years (maximum $50,000)
Eligibility Requirements:
- African-American, Hispanic-American, or Native American heritage
- Full-time enrollment in AACSB-accredited accounting doctoral program
- Completed at least one year of doctoral studies
- University provides additional financial support (stipend/tuition waiver)
- Commitment to academic career in accounting
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Strong academic record in doctoral coursework
Application Process:
Application Timeline:
- Application available: February 1
- Deadline: May 1 (postmarked)
- Notification: June 15
- Funding begins: Fall semester
Required Materials:
- Completed KPMG Foundation application form
- Official doctoral program transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation from doctoral faculty
- Current curriculum vitae
- 1,000-word statement addressing:
- Research interests and dissertation topic
- Career goals in accounting academia
- Commitment to diversity in the profession
- Teaching philosophy and experience
Submission Instructions:
Mail complete application package to:
Anita English, Scholarship Administrator
KPMG Foundation
3 Chestnut Ridge Road
Montvale, NJ 07645
Phone: 201-307-7152
Email: [email protected]
Major Regional Firm Scholarships
Grant Thornton
Grant Thornton Excellence in Accounting Scholarship
Award Amount: $2,500-$5,000 (varies by university partnership)
Eligibility Requirements:
- Junior or senior accounting major
- Minimum 3.4 cumulative GPA
- Pursuing 150 hours for CPA eligibility
- Demonstrated leadership through extracurricular activities
- Financial need consideration
- Interest in pursuing public accounting career
Application Process:
Grant Thornton partners with specific universities for this scholarship program. Each participating school manages its own selection process.
How to Apply:
- Check with your university’s accounting department for participation status
- Applications typically available through:
- Financial aid office
- Accounting department office
- Career services center
Common Partner Universities Include:
Contact for University List:
Email: [email protected]
BDO
BDO Accounting Scholarship Program
Award Amount: Merit awards range from $1,000-$5,000; need-based awards up to $10,000
Eligibility Requirements:
- Sophomore, junior, or senior accounting major
- Minimum 3.2 GPA overall, 3.5 in accounting courses
- Demonstrated financial need for need-based awards
- Active involvement in accounting organizations
- Intent to pursue CPA licensure
Application Process:
BDO partners with universities near their office locations. Students must apply through their university.
General Timeline:
- Fall awards: Apply by October 15
- Spring awards: Apply by March 15
How to Determine Eligibility:
- Check if your university is near a BDO office location
- Contact accounting department for BDO scholarship availability
Key Contact:
University relations team at local BDO office
General inquiries: [email protected]
RSM
RSM Excellence in Accounting Scholarship
Award Amount: $2,500-$10,000 annually based on merit and need
Eligibility Requirements:
- Junior or senior accounting student
- Minimum 3.3 GPA
- Completed intermediate accounting courses
- Leadership roles on campus
- Interest in middle market public accounting
Application Process:
RSM Excellence Scholarships are awarded through university partnerships. Each school has unique deadlines and requirements.
Partner Schools Include:
- Michigan State University
- University of Missouri
- Ohio State University
- University of Alabama
- Arizona State University
- Penn State University
Contact Information:
National: [email protected]
Regional contacts through university
Application Success Strategies
Key Requirements Analysis Across All Programs
Strategic Application Timeline
Junior Year – Fall Semester:
- Research all available programs
- Attend firm information sessions
- Build relationships with recruiters
- Strengthen GPA if needed
Junior Year – Spring Semester:
- Apply for senior-year scholarships
- Seek leadership positions
- Secure strong references
- Participate in case competitions
Senior Year – Fall Semester:
- Apply for graduate program scholarships
- Leverage internship experience
- Maintain professional network
- Consider early career programs
What Distinguishes Winning Applications
Success requires understanding each program’s unique requirements, maintaining strong academic performance, demonstrating leadership potential, and building authentic relationships with firm representatives.
Authentic Firm Interest:
- Specific knowledge of firm culture and values
- Articulation of firm-person fit
- Evidence of relationship building with firm
Relevant Experience:
- Prior accounting internships
- Volunteer income tax assistance participation
- Small business consulting experience
- Leadership in accounting organizations
Professional Organization Involvement
Active participation strengthens applications:
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Technical Errors:
- Missing deadlines
- Incomplete applications
- Poor formatting or typos
- Generic, non-customized materials
Strategic Mistakes:
- Applying to only one program
- Ignoring regional firm opportunities
- Focusing solely on monetary award
- Neglecting relationship building
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for multiple Big 4 scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, you can and should apply to multiple programs. Each firm operates independently, and applying to several increases your chances of receiving funding. However, be prepared to choose if you receive multiple offers, as some programs may have exclusivity requirements.
Do these scholarships require a commitment to work for the firm after graduation?
Most scholarships don’t have formal work commitments, but firms expect recipients to seriously consider full-time opportunities. Internship programs often lead to full-time offers, but you’re typically not legally obligated to accept.
What if I don’t meet the minimum GPA requirement?
While GPA requirements are important, some firms consider holistic applications. Strong leadership experience, compelling personal stories, or exceptional circumstances may offset a slightly lower GPA. Regional firms often have more flexibility than Big 4 programs.
Are international students eligible for these scholarships?
Eligibility varies by program. Many require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency due to work authorization requirements. However, some firms offer international student programs – check individual requirements carefully.
How competitive are these scholarships?
Big 4 scholarships are highly competitive, with acceptance rates often below 10%. Regional firm scholarships typically have better odds, especially in specific geographic markets. The key is demonstrating genuine interest in public accounting and the specific firm’s culture.
When should I start preparing for these applications?
Begin preparing during your sophomore year by building relationships with firm recruiters, joining accounting organizations, and seeking leadership positions. Start actual applications 3-4 months before deadlines to ensure strong submissions.
Can I receive multiple accounting firm scholarships?
Yes, you can receive multiple scholarships from different firms, though some may require disclosure of other awards. However, internship programs typically require exclusivity, so you’ll need to choose one firm for your internship experience.
Do these scholarships cover CPA exam costs?
While most scholarships focus on tuition, many firms offer separate CPA exam support for their interns and new hires, including exam fees, review course costs, and completion bonuses. This is typically separate from scholarship awards.
Big 4 Scholarships Offer More than Just Financial Assistance—They are a Pathway to the Echelons of the Accounting Profession
Success requires understanding each program’s unique requirements, maintaining strong academic performance, demonstrating leadership potential, and building authentic relationships with firm representatives.
Remember that these firms invest in future colleagues, not just students. Approach each application as an opportunity to demonstrate your potential value to their organization. The time invested in thoughtful applications, relationship building, and professional development will yield returns throughout your career, whether through reduced educational debt, accelerated career progression, or lasting professional networks.
Start early, apply broadly, and view the process as practice for your professional career. The skills developed through pursuing these scholarships—research, writing, interviewing, and relationship building—will serve you throughout your journey as an accounting professional.
For those just beginning their accounting journey, explore our guide on entry-level accounting positions to understand where these scholarships can lead. Additionally, understanding accountant salary expectations by region can help you make informed decisions about which firms and locations to target.
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.
