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KPMG Apprenticeship Application — Top Tips for 2026
These are the most important things to know before applying to the KPMG 360° Apprenticeship. Most of these aren't obvious — they come from analysing what the top candidates do at every stage.
Apply early
The window is October–February for the following September start. KPMG makes rolling offers — candidates who apply in week one of the window are competing against hundreds. Candidates who apply in the final week are competing against tens of thousands.
Prepare your STAR stories before you start the form
The motivational questions and video interview both require specific examples. Have at least 5–7 stories ready — covering Courage, Integrity, Excellence at minimum — before you open the application.
Know KPMG — not just the sector
KPMG anchors their assessment around five values. Every competency answer should map to at least one. Mentioning KPMG's values by name (and genuinely showing them) sets strong candidates apart.
Practice the online tests
Job simulation — a multi-stage online exercise simulating a day at KPMG including emails, data tasks, and situational scenarios. Most candidates don't practice. Those who do score noticeably higher. SHL and Korn Ferry both offer free sample tests online.
Record your video interview practice
Record yourself answering a practice question on your phone and watch it back. You will immediately see what to fix — filler words, pace, eye contact, posture. Do this at least twice before the real interview.
The assessment centre starts when you walk in
Be professional from the moment you arrive — with the receptionist, other candidates, and during breaks. Assessors at KPMG are watching throughout the day, not just during formal exercises.
Use 'I', not 'we'
Every competency interview answer must isolate your specific contribution. 'We worked together as a team' tells assessors nothing. 'I specifically did X, because Y, which led to Z' is what they're scoring.
Want the full prep pack?
KPMG Apprenticeship Prep Pack
Application stages, competencies, real interview questions, commercial awareness, and a pre-submission checklist — in one complete pack.