FAQ's

Answers to questions you may have

Student Careers - Frequently asked questions

We understand applying for a grad role can be a daunting experience and can raise lots of questions. We have answered some of these questions to help you stay informed through the journey. If you have any other questions, please get in touch with the team by emailing us on graduate@bdo.co.nz

Eligibility / application process

Yes, we accept applications if you are not living in this area. Interviews will take place virtually. Travel may be required for the next stage of the process, however BDO would cover the expense of this travel. If you aren't in the area, BDO will be happy to provide an office tour at a later date. 


Yes, you can specify your preferred location. View all our office locations here. We recruit graduate and Intern roles in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and a number of the regional offices that may vary each year. View our current openings and apply here

We understand silence is really unsettling when you are making a decision around your future and what this may hold. You will hear from us at each step of the way, usually via email at the beginning of the process, so be sure to keep an eye on your emails so you don't miss anything from us. We may also contact you via text messaging or phone. 

Absolutely! The best time to apply is as soon as the enrolments open, as BDO start interviewing straight away and there are limited places. 

Grades aren't everything during the application process, but it is good to have an expected level of the fundamentals of accounting. Being a well-rounded individual is something that BDO values. 

If you do get an offer from another organisation, while you are still in the process with BDO, talk to us! We can help you navigate the situation, which can sometimes be tricky. We believe it is important that you get the opportunity to fully evaluate your options at this important stage of your career. 

About our programme

BDO are looking for well-rounded graduates with appropriate degrees related to their chosen career path. Graduates should be driven and well-motivated but also work well in a team.  In today's world of work being flexible and able to adapt to change is important.

We are looking for graduates who are looking to be the best version of themselves, whatever that may look like.

This is a widely debated question to which there is no right or wrong answer. Joining a CA firm provides a great grounding for your learning and development as you will have exposure to a range of client's systems and learn industry best practice. Professional services have extensive expertise, providing a great opportunity for mentoring.  

BDO services a different portfolio of clients with a different value proposition. We largely target mid-market NZ businesses which provides a great opportunity to build and foster strong relationships with our clients and truly get to know the people you work with. We think we have the best of both worlds with a global presence, reputable clients and a strong network of support for learning and development.

Some of the key differences that we have been told is that our culture is more relaxed and informal, we’re collaborative and have an open-door policy. You get earlier access to clients and more exposure to working closely with Partners, and the work-life balance at BDO is better.

Have a look at our service lines and speak to our former graduates at our events/career fairs to gain an insight into the different areas.

If you are applying for a role in Auckland, then at the beginning of our graduate recruitment process you won’t need to make a decision on which service line to apply for.

You will get plenty of opportunity through the process with each location to get a good overview of the different service lines to make a decision that is right for you.

A BDO career takes many shapes and forms. Whether you are looking to gain your CA qualification and head overseas to gain some global experience, have goals and aspirations to become a Partner, or are looking to go into a commercial role, a career with BDO will equip you with transferable skills through our various learning and development pathways. Have a look at our benefits here, including learning and development 

Everyone has a buddy from day one. Your buddy will support you in your first few months and throughout your career at BDO. The purpose of a Buddy is to ensure you "know what you don't know". We know this sounds cliché however there is only so much information that will resonate and your buddy is available to answer any questions that arise. From your first day, your buddy will show you the ropes and be your go-to with any questions you may have. 

The number of roles varies for each service line and location. Nationally the largest number of graduate positions are within our Audit team.