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Prepare for the actual firm
Research its office, clients, industries, team structure, and service line instead of treating it like Big 4 with a smaller logo.
Mid-sized firm recruiting
Mid-Sized Accounting Firm Internship Interview: What Should I Expect?
Do not assume every public-accounting interview follows the Big 4 template.
A regional or mid-sized firm may have fewer rounds, more direct access to managers or partners, a more conversational format, behavioral questions, situational questions, and some basic technical discussion.
Practice More QuestionsQuestions I would prepare
Tell me about yourself.
Why accounting?
Why audit?
Why this firm?
Why a mid-sized firm?
Tell me about a team.
Tell me about a deadline.
Tell me about feedback.
Tell me about a mistake.
What classes have you taken?
Why a mid-sized firm?
Broader exposure
Smaller engagement teams
Direct interaction with experienced professionals
Regional clients
Industry variety
A specific office or recruiting interaction
Could they ask technical questions?
Yes. For an internship, prioritize basic financial statements, accounting fundamentals, what audit is, anything on your résumé, coursework you claim, and Excel skills you claim.
Questions to ask
How large are typical engagement teams?
How closely do interns work with seniors and managers?
Do interns work across multiple industries?
What does an intern usually own by the end?
What makes someone receive a return offer?
Mid-sized is its own recruiting experience
Prepare for a firm where you may meet the people who will actually train and review you much earlier in the process.
Related interview resources