Apply to join us

The information in this section is designed to help you through our recruitment process in order to give you the best chance of success. As our graduate trainee positions are highly sought after we recommend that you read our graduate website to ensure that you know what we do and why you want to apply to us.

If you feel that Grant Thornton is right for you then we would strongly encourage you to apply by completing our online application form or call one of our local Graduate Recruitment Officers.

Minimum requiremements

  • We accept applications from students from any subject or degree discipline
  • Minimum 'B' grades in GCSE or Scottish Highers in both Maths and English Language or equivalent
  • ACA/CIPFA/CTA/FIA: minimum 300 UCAS points (or equivalent) and expected/obtained 2.1 degree
  • ACCA: minimum 240 UCAS points (or equivalent) and expected/obtained 2.1 degree
  • AAT/ATT: 240 UCAS points (or equivalent) although no degree required
  • Eligibility to work in the UK

The recruitment process

Each office has a slightly different recruitment process but in most cases the process is as follows:

  1. Online application
  2. Numeracy & verbal reasoning test
  3. HR interview(s)
  4. London only: assessment centre
  5. Manager and Partner interview

1. Application form

Firstly enter your search criteria ie where you want to work and in which business areas. Then submit the criteria and register with us. Once you have submitted your online application, it will be reviewed within approximately 2 weeks

2. Testing

If your application successfully passes the application form stage, you will be asked to sit two on-line aptitude tests (numerical and verbal reasoning). These tests will take approximately 20 minutes each. If you have never completed any numerical or verbal tests before, then you can familiarise yourself and get some practice in advance by visiting http://www.psl.co.uk/practice/

3. HR interview

If successful at the testing stage you will be required to undertake an HR interview. On most occasions this will be a telephone interview but in some offices this will be face to face and will cover questions on the following attributes:

  • Motivation to accountancy 
  • Drive
  • Credibility and communication
  • Commercial awareness
  • Teamwork and leadership
  • Intellect and judgment
  • Organisation

4. Assessment centre (London only)

For those applying for a position in London there is a high volume of applications and it is highly competitive therefore there is a slightly different process. The next stage of the process will be an assessment centre, which will involve the following:

  • 40 minute face to face HR interview
  • Group exercise
  • Lunch and Q&A session with trainees
  • Office tour
  • Presentation on the training opportunities at Grant Thornton

5. Manager and Partner interview

This will consist of two consecutive 30-60 minute interviews, one with a Manager and the other with a Partner in the chosen business area. This interview focuses on the competencies in the above HR interview as well as looking for evidence of commercial awareness and commitment to a career in the chosen department.

6. Offer

You will be notified of the outcome of your final interview, usually within 7 working days. If successful, a formal offer would then follow in the post.

7. Start dates

Most trainees join the firm at the end of August although we do have a small intake in London in January