PwC Internship Programs: Requirements and Opportunities

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is a globally recognized professional services firm that provides a wide array of services, including audit, tax, advisory, and consulting. With a presence in over 157 countries and a workforce exceeding 295,000 employees, PwC plays a crucial role in helping businesses grow, manage risks effectively, and navigate the complexities of the modern business environment. For students aspiring to gain real-world experience and kickstart their careers in professional services, PwC offers several internship programs tailored to different academic levels and interests. These internships provide invaluable opportunities to work alongside experienced professionals, develop essential skills, and build a strong foundation for future career success.

Overview of PwC Internship Programs

PwC offers a variety of internships for students at different levels of education. The firm's internships are available to undergraduate, graduate, and MBA students who are interested in pursuing a career in accounting, tax, or consulting services. These programs include:

START Internship Program: Designed to provide students with real-world exposure to PwC’s business operations while building leadership and career readiness.
Advance Internship Program: Open to juniors (in a four-year program) and seniors (in a five-year program), Advance Internships typically take place one year prior to graduation.
Winter Internship Program: Takes place during the audit and tax busy season, and is a great way build your digital skills and business acumen through hands-on, client experiences.
MBA Internship Program: MBA interns interact with senior-level clients, manage team tasks, create solutions and methodologies, and help develop proposals and thought leadership.

The START Internship Program: A Closer Look

The START Internship Program is an introductory internship that provides participants the opportunity to learn more about professional services while developing the digital and technical skills key to success in today’s business environment. Interns work directly with PwC partners, principals, and staff. It is PwC’s diversity summer internship experience, uniquely designed for high-performing college sophomores (and juniors, if in a five-year program) who self-identify as members of traditionally underrepresented minority groups in the professional services industry, protected veterans, and/or individuals with disabilities. Start is PwC’s Career Readiness and Leadership Development Experience, uniquely designed for high-performing individuals looking to grow their business and professional acumen, and inclusive mindset.

START Internship Application Details

Application Period: The START internship application typically opens in December and closes in March. It is advisable to apply early, as spots are limited.
How to Apply: Applications can be submitted directly via PwC’s official careers portal. Some universities may also partner with PwC for campus recruitment.
- Visit PwC’s career site and search for “START Internship.”
- Complete the application form with the necessary details.
- Upload your resume and other required documents.
- Submit the application before the deadline.

Eligibility Criteria for the START Internship

To be eligible for PwC's START internship, students must meet the following criteria:

Year of Study: Open to sophomores (in a 4-year degree program) or juniors (in a 5-year degree program). Students from associate degree programs transitioning to a 4-year institution can also apply.
Academic Performance: A minimum GPA of 3.0 is preferred.
Relevant Fields of Study: Business, Finance, Accounting, Economics, and related disciplines. For certain accounting roles, you must be on track to meet CPA eligibility requirements.
CPA Eligibility: Job seekers must have a plan to complete all educational requirements to satisfy the 150 credit hour requirement necessary for the CPA license by August 2025.
Previous Internship Experience: This program is open to sophomores (in a four-year program) and juniors (in a five-year program) who have not previously interned at PwC.

Required Documents

Resume/CV: A professional resume showcasing academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and work experience (if applicable).
Cover Letter: A brief explanation of why you're interested in the START program and how it aligns with your career goals.
Recommendation Letters: Generally not required, but having a reference from a professor or previous employer may strengthen your application.

The START Internship Hiring Process

The hiring process for PwC's START internship involves several stages:

Application Screening: PwC reviews the submitted applications to shortlist candidates.
Online Assessment: Shortlisted candidates take an online assessment that evaluates problem-solving and analytical skills.
Technical Interview: Focuses on questions related to the specific practice area (e.g., audit, tax, advisory).
HR Interview: A behavioral interview to assess your cultural fit and career aspirations.
Final Decision: Successful candidates receive offers for the internship.

Internship Duration and Timing

The START internship usually lasts for 8-10 weeks during the summer months, offering students a chance to immerse themselves in PwC's working environment. Winter internships run from January - March and summer internships run from June - August. Winter internships require full-time availability during standard business hours Monday through Friday. Internship opportunities require full-time availability (minimum 40 hours per week) during standard business hours Monday-Friday.

Stipend and Perks

Stipend: Interns receive a competitive stipend, which may vary by location. As an intern, salary is paid on an hourly basis. Currently, entry-level associates at PwC receive a base salary anywhere between $65,000-$85,000 (it can reach upwards of $100,000 in certain strategy groups).
Perks:
- Access to mentorship and professional development opportunities.
- Invitations to networking events with PwC professionals.
- Exposure to client projects, allowing interns to work on real-world challenges.
- Possibility of receiving early offers for an Advance Internship or full-time positions after graduation.

Importance of the START Internship Program

The START internship provides students with hands-on experience in a global professional services firm. Interns gain exposure to different business areas, such as audit, tax, advisory, and consulting, while developing valuable skills like problem-solving, client interaction, and team collaboration. Additionally, the mentorship and networking opportunities help students build a foundation for their future careers in professional services. It is ideal for students who are beginning to explore potential career paths and want to gain real-world experience in a prestigious firm.

Additional Details

Diversity Focus: PwC encourages students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American students, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and first-generation college students, to apply. Start is PwC’s diversity summer internship experience, uniquely designed for high-performing college sophomores (and juniors, if in a five-year program) who self-identify as members of traditionally underrepresented minority groups in the professional services industry, protected veterans, and/or individuals with disabilities. PwC also has a commitment to Black and Latinx applicants, illustrated through the Access Your Potential program focused on closing the opportunity and employment gap.
Future Opportunities: Successful interns are often invited back for Advance internships in their junior year and may receive full-time offers upon graduation. If you receive and accept a Start internship offer for Audit, DAT, Tax or Advisory, you also will receive an offer for an internship for the same career areas for the year following your Start internship. Following successful completion of a Start internship and maintaining academic standing, students will be eligible for an Advance internship offer for the subsequent year. Start is just the first step in PwC's Internship Experience.

Other PwC Internship Programs

While the START Internship Program is a popular entry point, PwC offers a range of other internships tailored to different academic levels and career interests.

Advance Internship Program

Open to juniors (in a four-year program) and seniors (in a five-year program), Advance Internships typically take place one year prior to graduation. As a Senior Associate Intern in our Advance internship program, you'll work on teams in our Advisory practice to develop deeper expertise in your area of focus and establish yourself as a leader.

Winter Internship Program

Winter internship takes place during the audit and tax busy season, and is a great way build your digital skills and business acumen through hands-on, client experiences. Winter internships run from January - March and require full-time availability during standard business hours Monday through Friday. Application tip: internships with "Winter, Winter/Spring, or W/S" in the title are 40+ hour per week opportunities taking place from January - March.

Read also: Your Guide to Nursing Internships

MBA Internship Program

Making an impact on growing global companies is one of the ways you can put your MBA to work at PwC. Here, you'll discover a firm that has the opportunities, mentorship and technology to help take your career to the next level. As an MBA graduate, you will embark on a consulting career within one of our broad industry areas. MBA interns interact with senior-level clients, manage team tasks, create solutions and methodologies, and help develop proposals and thought leadership.

Consulting Preview

Consulting Preview is designed for students entering into their first year of business school, pursuing a Masters in Business Administration, and who self-identify as members of traditionally underrepresented minority groups in the professional services industry, protected veterans, and/or individuals with disabilities.

Career Preview

Career Preview is designed for high-performing college freshmen who self-identify as members of traditionally underrepresented minority groups in the professional services industry, protected veterans, and/or individuals with disabilities. Career Preview is an excellent opportunity for you to confirm your college academic path and your career objectives, and to become better acquainted with PwC. It's never too early to begin your PwC journey! Career Preview is a three-day, immersive experience designed to give attendees an opportunity to really see what PwC is about, how your major fits in at the firm, and begin a professional relationship with PwC employees invested in your personal and professional growth.

Destination CPA

Destination CPA is a dynamic, three-day experience with individuals (and future CPAs) from across the country. During this event, there will be opportunities to network and build relationships with other future CPAs, PwC professionals and discover the versatility of a CPA license and how it can impact your career- at PwC and beyond. Destination CPA is a three-day, in person, immersive event, during which attendees will have the opportunity to network and build relationships with other future CPAs, PwC professionals and discover the versatility of a CPA license and how it can impact your career- at PwC and beyond. Eligibility: For this program, we are seeking college sophomores (in a four-year program) or juniors (in a five-year program) who are pursuing an accounting major and 150 credit hours.

Women’s Consulting Experience

During Women’s Consulting Experience, attendees will gain valuable insight into the firm, our advisory practice and our professionals while discovering leadership skills that can be used on campus and beyond. Eligibility: For this program, we are seeking sophomore (in a four-year program) or junior (in a five-year program) women who have not previously interned at PwC. In order to receive an invitation to Women’s Consulting Experience, candidates must apply to and receive an offer for a 2027 Advisory Advance Internship with PwC. We are seeking women who are sophomores in a four-year degree program or juniors in a five-year degree program.

Read also: Comprehensive Internship Guide

Other Opportunities

One-Year Program: Want to "learn while you earn" at PwC? This unique one-year program is designed to provide eligible college seniors, who identify as an underrepresented minority, with an opportunity to continue their education, become CPA eligible, and embark on a unique path to an in-demand career in Accounting. This fellowship combines real work experiences through paid, part-time work at PwC and a tuition paid, on-line master’s degree program at the D’Amore-McKim School of Business at Northeastern University. Fellows may be offered a full-time associate position at PwC after the successful completion of the fellowship program.
Fellowship Program: This unique one-year program is designed to provide a path for eligible individuals who will have completed their bachelor's degree by May 2026, to obtain additional credit hours and a Master’s Degree while working at PwC. This fellowship combines real work experiences through paid, part-time work at PwC and a tuition paid, on-line master’s degree program at the D’Amore-McKim School of Business at Northeastern University.

Tips for Applying to PwC Internships

Start Early: Submit your application as soon as the application period opens, as positions are filled on a rolling basis. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. For most of our opportunities, we recruit on a rolling basis. This means that when our roles open, we accept applications on an ongoing basis by location and close them as offers are accepted and positions are filled.
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the specific internship requirements.
Prepare for the Interview: Practice answering common interview questions and be ready to discuss your interest in PwC and the specific role.
Network: Attend PwC events and career fairs to connect with recruiters and learn more about the firm. Building relationships is essential to being a successful leader. At PwC, we feel strongly that the internship fosters new relationships that will last for the rest of your career.
Showcase Your Skills: Develop your digital skills and business acumen through experiential training and client experiences.
Complete the Assessment: You must complete an assessment to be considered for these roles.
Submit Directly: Submit your application directly through PwC using the link provided on their career page. Applying through your school/university site will not count as an official application!

Benefits of a PwC Internship

The benefits of a PwC internship are numerous. First, interns get to work with experienced professionals who can provide mentorship and guidance. Interns are assigned a team of development coaches who will help them navigate their internship and offer feedback on their performance. Second, PwC internships provide students with a unique opportunity to network. Interns have the opportunity to meet and work with professionals from various departments within PwC, including audit, tax, consulting, and advisory. This allows interns to gain exposure to different areas of the firm and to learn about potential career paths. Third, PwC internships offer competitive compensation and benefits. Interns are paid for their work and are eligible for benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, retirement savings plans, and even discounted gym memberships! Additionally, PwC offers training and development programs for interns, which can help them develop the skills necessary to succeed in the professional services industry.

PwC’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

PwC offers a culture that allows everyone to thrive. We support an inclusive culture by acknowledging the unique experiences and perspectives each individual brings to the table. You will also find the training, support and benefits that will help you succeed. PwC encourages students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, and Native American students, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and first-generation college students, to apply. PwC also has a commitment to Black and Latinx applicants, illustrated through the Access Your Potential program focused on closing the opportunity and employment gap.

Responsible Business Leadership at PwC

Responsible Business Leadership is PwC's commitment to making an impact in their communities and delivering business value by helping create a more equitable society.

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