Are you an ambitious student looking to launch a career in professional services? Then you’ll want to explore the world of KPMG internships 2025 in Tax and Audit Programs. These internships offer a fantastic opportunity to gain real-world experience, build your professional network, and get a head start on a fulfilling career. The path to a successful internship can feel daunting, but with the right information and a clear strategy, you can confidently navigate the application process and land your dream role.
Embarking on a KPMG internship 2025 journey is an exciting step toward building a successful and impactful career in professional services. The firm’s commitment to training, mentorship, and real-world experience provides a strong foundation for future leaders. By understanding the distinct paths in Audit and Tax, preparing a tailored application, and approaching the process with confidence, you can open the door to a rewarding experience that may very well lead to a full-time position.
Why a KPMG Internship? The Value of Hands-On Experience
An internship is more than just a line on your resume; it’s a bridge between your academic life and your professional future. KPMG, as one of the “Big Four” accounting firms, provides an unparalleled platform for this transition. Their programs are designed to immerse you in the company culture and provide a true taste of what it’s like to work there.
One of the most significant benefits is the exposure to real client work. You won’t be fetching coffee; you’ll be contributing to projects that impact businesses on a global scale. This hands-on experience is invaluable. In my experience advising students, those who actively seek out challenging projects and ask thoughtful questions are the ones who truly thrive and make a lasting impression.
Understanding the KPMG Audit and Tax Programs
KPMG offers two primary internship tracks for students interested in accounting and finance: Audit and Tax. While both are critical to the firm’s success, they involve distinct responsibilities and skill sets.
The Audit Internship Program
As an Audit intern, you’ll be a vital part of a team that helps ensure the accuracy and reliability of a client’s financial statements. This is about building trust in the capital markets. You will learn core auditing skills, such as preparing documentation, executing tests of client controls, and using data and analytics tools to perform substantive procedures. According to a job description for an Audit Intern role, you’ll work with a range of technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), Excel, and Power BI, to support the execution of high-quality audits (Prosple). This is an excellent opportunity to develop a deep understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standards.
The Tax Internship Program
The Tax internship program focuses on helping organizations navigate the complex world of tax policy and regulations. As a Tax intern, you’ll assist clients of all sizes with compliance, planning, and advisory services. You might be involved in preparing tax returns, conducting tax due diligence, or assisting with state and local tax issues. A Tax internship description notes that you will get to work on assignments using KPMG technology and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (WayUp). It’s a role that requires a blend of technical knowledge, critical thinking, and strong communication skills. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for how tax strategy impacts a business’s bottom line.
Eligibility and How to Stand Out
Landing one of these highly sought-after internships requires you to meet specific criteria and present yourself as a strong, well-rounded candidate. While requirements can vary by location, a few common threads are consistent.
General Eligibility Requirements:
- Academic Standing: Most programs require that you are an undergraduate or graduate student, often with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Coursework: While an accounting background is a plus, KPMG also considers students from other fields, especially those with coursework in information systems, computer science, or data and analytics, as these skills are increasingly important in the industry (Forage).
- Graduation Timeline: Candidates are typically expected to have academic credits to complete after their internship, making them eligible for a full-time role upon graduation.
To truly stand out, however, you need to go beyond the basic requirements. I’ve seen many successful applicants focus on showcasing their soft skills. KPMG is looking for people who are resilient, progressive thinkers, and great communicators (KPMG Careers).3
- Demonstrate Your Skills: Highlight instances where you’ve used strong communication, time management, and relationship-building skills. Think about group projects, leadership roles in student clubs, or part-time jobs.
- Show a “Quality Service Mindset”: This is a key phrase you’ll see in many job descriptions. It means being proactive, resourceful, and committed to delivering high-quality work.
- Tailor Your Application: Don’t use a generic resume and cover letter. Customize your application for the specific program (Audit or Tax) and location you’re applying to, highlighting how your skills and experiences align with KPMG’s values.
The Application and Interview Process
The application for a KPMG internship is a multi-stage process, and preparing for each step is crucial.
- Online Application: This is where you’ll submit your resume and unofficial transcript. KPMG recruits on a rolling basis, so applying as early as possible is highly recommended to secure a spot before positions are filled. You can browse and apply to open positions directly on the KPMG careers website.
- Virtual Assessment: After a successful initial application, you may be invited to complete a virtual assessment. This can test your skills, knowledge, and problem-solving abilities.
- Interviews: Candidates typically go through one or two rounds of virtual interviews. These interviews often include behavioral questions, such as “Describe a situation where you came up with a new or innovative way of solving a problem” (Forage). They are designed to assess your fit with the company culture and your potential for success.
- Offer: If all goes well, you’ll receive an offer for a paid internship. Many successful interns are considered for a full-time position upon completion of the program.
KPMG also provides resources to help you prepare, such as their “Ace the Case” program, which offers workshops and simulations to help you build critical skills.
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FAQs
Q1:Are KPMG internships paid?
Yes, KPMG internships are paid. The specific salary can vary based on location and the role. For example, a salary for an Audit Intern in the US was recently listed in the range of $72,000 – $85,000 per year on one job site (Prosple). In some regions, additional benefits like travel and lodging may also be covered, particularly for global programs (Uniplus Global).
Q2:Can international students apply?
KPMG offers internships to international students, especially through their Global Internship Program.5 Specific eligibility, including citizenship requirements, varies by country and program. It’s essential to check the specific country and program requirements on the official KPMG website. Some practices may also consider qualified applicants who require visa sponsorship.
Q3:Do I need to be an accounting major to apply?
No, you do not need to be an accounting major. While many roles require a strong foundation in finance or accounting, KPMG also recruits students from diverse backgrounds, including technology, engineering, and data analytics. The firm values a variety of skills and perspectives.
