Author: Taylor Warfield, Former Bain Manager and interviewer

Last Updated: March 23, 2026

KPMG Embark Scholars is a multi-year, 8-week paid internship that gives first-generation college students and underrepresented minorities hands-on rotations through KPMG's Audit, Tax, and Advisory practices. With a prorated annual salary between $63,000 and $75,000 and over 95% of participants receiving full-time offers after graduation, it is one of the most valuable early career programs in professional services.

 

If you are applying to KPMG Embark Scholars and want to know exactly how to get in, this guide covers everything: program structure, eligibility, the application, interview prep, and strategies that will set you apart from thousands of other applicants.

 

But first, a quick heads up:

 

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What Changed in 2026?

 

KPMG expanded Embark Scholars eligibility beyond underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities. According to KPMG's official careers page, the program now also welcomes first-generation college students and community college transfer students pursuing qualifying degrees. This is a major shift that opens the program to a much larger pool of candidates.

 

Additionally, KPMG now posts two distinct Embark Scholar tracks on its careers site: a CPA Track for accounting students and a Technology Track for IT, computer science, and engineering majors. The salary range for both tracks is $63,000 to $75,000 prorated annually, based on KPMG's California pay transparency filings.

 

What Is the KPMG Embark Scholars Program?

 

KPMG Embark Scholars is a competitive, multi-year program designed to develop high-performing students into future KPMG leaders. It consists of an 8-week paid summer internship where participants receive professional training and rotate through KPMG's three core service lines: Audit, Tax, and Advisory.

 

The following summer, Embark Scholars return for a second internship in whichever practice area they liked most. Over 95% of participants ultimately receive a full-time job offer after graduation, making this one of the highest conversion rate internships at any Big Four firm.

 

During the program, participants can expect to:

 

• Receive professional development training at KPMG Lakehouse in Lake Nona, Florida

 

• Rotate through Audit, Tax, and Advisory to explore each practice area

 

• Collaborate on a team-based capstone project throughout the internship

 

• Build a network of mentors and peers across every KPMG service line

 

• Earn competitive compensation with a prorated salary of $63,000 to $75,000

 

For questions about the program, you can email [email protected].

 

What Are the CPA and Technology Tracks?

 

KPMG posts Embark Scholar internships under two tracks. The CPA Track is for students pursuing accounting or equivalent degrees who will eventually meet CPA eligibility requirements. The Technology Track is for students in IT, computer science, engineering, or management information systems.

 

Both tracks share the same 8-week rotational structure and salary range. The difference is how your time is split across service lines. CPA Track interns spend more time supporting audit methodology, data analysis, and financial reporting. Technology Track interns focus more on analytics tools, data extraction, and technology-related advisory work.

 

When you apply on KPMG's careers site, you will see separate job postings for each track. Choose the one that matches your degree and career interests.

 

What Does a Typical Day Look Like During the Program?

 

Based on KPMG's official job descriptions, Embark Scholars work on real client engagements alongside full-time professionals. Daily tasks vary depending on which rotation you are in, but common responsibilities include:

 

• Assisting engagement teams with creating work paper files and preparing client reports

 

• Performing data extractions and data analysis using analytics tools

 

• Reviewing client materials and proposing how analysis can support the engagement

 

• Supporting business development activities and organizing deliverables

 

• Contributing to the integrity and transparency of financial information

 

The program operates on a standard 40-hour workweek. You should expect a hybrid arrangement that includes both office days and potential client site visits, some of which may require travel.

 

Where Does Embark Scholars Training Take Place?

 

All KPMG interns, including Embark Scholars, participate in National Intern Training at KPMG Lakehouse, the firm's advanced learning center in Lake Nona, Florida. According to KPMG, no other Big Four firm offers a consistent national training experience for all interns across Audit, Tax, and Advisory.

 

At Lakehouse, you will attend workshops, build leadership and communication skills, and connect with fellow Embark Scholars from offices across the country. In my experience coaching candidates, alumni consistently describe Lakehouse as a highlight of the internship. It builds a sense of community that lasts well beyond the 8-week program.

 

How Does Embark Scholars Compare to a Regular KPMG Internship?

 

Many students wonder whether they should apply for Embark Scholars or the standard KPMG internship. The table below breaks down the key differences.

 

Feature	Embark Scholars	Standard KPMG Internship
Target Audience	First-gen, community college, and underrepresented minority students	All eligible students
Class Standing	Freshmen and sophomores (2+ years remaining)	Juniors and seniors (typically)
Duration	8 weeks	8 to 10 weeks
Structure	Rotations across Audit, Tax, and Advisory	Single practice area
Capstone Project	Yes	No
Multi-Year Pathway	Yes (return for practice internship the following summer)	No (direct to full-time offer)
Salary Range (CA)	$63,000 to $75,000 prorated	$63,000 to $80,000+ prorated
Lakehouse Training	Yes	Yes

 

The biggest advantage of Embark Scholars is that it starts earlier in your college career and gives you exposure to all three practice areas before you have to pick one. Most standard KPMG interns are placed directly into a single service line without the rotational experience.

 

Who Is Eligible for the KPMG Embark Scholars Program?

 

To be eligible for KPMG Embark Scholars, you must be a freshman or sophomore at an accredited college or university with at least two years of education remaining before graduation. You must also be pursuing a qualifying degree and authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

 

Qualifying degree fields include:

 

• Accounting or taxation

 

• Finance

 

• Information technology or computer science

 

• Engineering

 

• Management information systems

 

KPMG encourages applications from first-generation college students, community college students, and members of underrepresented racial and ethnic minority groups in professional services. These groups include Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander.

 

Beyond the hard requirements, the ideal candidate should have:

 

• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale

 

• Strong communication, leadership, and time management skills

 

• The ability to work effectively as a member of a team

 

• A willingness to travel when needed for client site visits

 

Prior participation in KPMG leadership programs such as Rise, HBCU Talent+, or the Advisory Talent Program is a preferred qualification, though not required. If you have attended any of these events, be sure to mention it in your application.

 

How Much Does KPMG Embark Scholars Pay?

 

KPMG Embark Scholars is a paid internship. Based on KPMG's pay transparency filings, the prorated annual salary for Embark Scholar Interns ranges from $63,000 to $75,000, depending on your office location and track. This translates to roughly $30 to $36 per hour for the 8-week program.

 

According to Glassdoor data from 2026, the average reported compensation for KPMG Embark Scholars is approximately $85,000 prorated annually, with a compensation satisfaction rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 37 reviews. The higher average on Glassdoor likely reflects variation across office locations and self-reported figures that include bonuses or stipends.

 

In addition to base pay, KPMG offers a benefits package that may include medical and dental plans, vision coverage, disability and life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and personal well-being benefits. For a summer internship this early in your career, this compensation is highly competitive among Big Four firms.

 

When Is the KPMG Embark Scholars Deadline?

 

The KPMG Embark Scholars application does not have a fixed deadline. KPMG recruits on a rolling basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they come in and positions are filled until no spots remain. This makes it critical to apply as early as possible.

 

Here is the typical application timeline:

 

• Application opens: Late fall or early winter (usually October through December)

 

• Priority review window: First 4 to 6 weeks after the application opens

 

• Interview selections: Typically within 2 weeks of applying

 

• Internship start date: June of the following summer

 

In my experience coaching candidates for Big Four programs, the students who apply within the first few weeks consistently have better outcomes. Early applicants face less competition and get more interview slots to choose from. Waiting until the last minute is one of the most common mistakes I see.

 

What Does the KPMG Embark Scholars Application Require?

 

The KPMG Embark Scholars application requires five components: your contact information, a resume, an unofficial transcript, educational details, and an optional cover letter. Having everything ready before you start will save time and help you submit a polished application.

 

Resume

 

Your resume is the single most important part of your application. Application reviewers spend most of their screening time on resumes when deciding who to interview. A strong consulting resume can make the difference between getting an interview and getting passed over.

 

To build a standout resume for Embark Scholars:

 

• Keep it to one page. If it is longer, cut the least relevant content.

 

• Start every bullet with a past-tense action verb to show completed accomplishments.

 

• Include at least one number or metric in every bullet to quantify your impact.

 

• Show a mix of quantitative skills (data analysis, Excel) and qualitative skills (leadership, teamwork).

 

• Avoid technical jargon, obscure abbreviations, and buzzwords with unclear meanings.

 

• Prioritize work experiences, especially at recognizable companies or organizations.

 

• Include personal interests at the bottom to give reviewers something memorable to discuss.

 

If you want professional help crafting a resume that lands interviews, check out my resume review and editing service. It includes unlimited revisions and 24-hour turnarounds.

 

Unofficial Transcript

 

You will need to upload an unofficial transcript showing your completed coursework and cumulative GPA. This does not need to be an official transcript sent directly from your school. A PDF downloaded from your university's student portal is sufficient.

 

Optional Cover Letter

 

KPMG provides a spot for a cover letter, but it will most likely not be read unless you are a borderline candidate. That said, given how competitive the program is, I recommend submitting one. A well-written cover letter can push a borderline application over the edge and earn you an interview.

 

Focus your cover letter on why you are interested in professional services, what draws you to KPMG specifically, and how the Embark Scholars program fits into your career goals. Keep it to one page and make every sentence count.

 

How Do You Apply to KPMG Embark Scholars?

 

You apply to KPMG Embark Scholars through KPMG's careers website. The process takes about 10 minutes if you have your resume and transcript ready. Here are the steps:

 

• Step 1: Go to kpmguscareers.com and click on Job Search.

 

• Step 2: Filter by career level (Early Career or Internship) and search for "Embark Scholar."

 

• Step 3: Choose the correct track. Select either the CPA Track or the Technology Track based on your degree.

 

• Step 4: Select your preferred office location. KPMG strongly recommends applying to the location where you want to build your career long-term.

 

• Step 5: Complete the application by uploading your resume, unofficial transcript, and optional cover letter.

 

Important: KPMG limits you to a maximum of two active applications at any time. Do not apply to multiple Embark Scholar postings in different cities unless you are genuinely open to both locations. Choose carefully and apply to the one that matters most to you first.

 

What Is the KPMG Embark Scholars Interview Process?

 

If your application is selected, you will be invited to interview. According to KPMG's official hiring process, the Embark Scholars interview consists of two live video interviews with business leaders. Interview selections are typically made within 2 weeks of applying, and offer decisions come within 2 weeks of interviewing.

 

The interviews focus on three categories of questions: resume-based questions, behavioral questions, and motivational questions. There are no case interviews or technical assessments for Embark Scholars.

 

What Resume Questions Should You Expect?

 

Resume questions ask you to explain your background, strengths, and experiences beyond what is written on your resume. The interviewer wants to understand who you are as a person. Common resume questions include:

 

• Tell us about yourself.

 

• What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?

 

• What do you consider your greatest strength?

 

• What do you consider your greatest weakness?

 

• What is something we should know about you that is not on your resume?

 

What Behavioral Questions Should You Expect?

 

Behavioral questions ask you to describe a past experience where you demonstrated a specific quality. KPMG interviewers are evaluating your leadership, teamwork, problem-solving ability, and adaptability. Examples include:

 

• Tell me about a time when you led a team to achieve a goal.

 

• Give an example of a time when you went above and beyond.

 

• Tell me about a time when you failed and what you learned from it.

 

• Describe a problem you solved using data or analysis.

 

• Tell me about a time you resolved conflict while working on a team.

 

Structure every behavioral answer using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Spend most of your time on the Action and Result sections. Interviewers care far more about what you did and what happened than the background context.

 

If you want to learn how to answer 98% of behavioral and fit questions in just a few hours, check out my fit interview course.

 

What Motivational Questions Should You Expect?

 

Motivational questions assess whether you genuinely want to work at KPMG and have a real interest in professional services. The Embark Scholars program has an extremely limited number of spots, so KPMG wants to fill them with candidates who are likely to return and eventually accept a full-time offer.

 

Prepare strong answers to these two questions:

 

• Why are you interested in professional services? Talk about what excites you about working with clients across different industries, solving business problems, and building technical skills early in your career.

 

• Why do you want to work at KPMG? Mention specific things that set KPMG apart: their investment in training at Lakehouse, the rotational structure of Embark, their culture of mentorship, or specific service lines that match your interests.

 

What Are the Best Tips for Getting Into KPMG Embark Scholars?

 

1. Apply as Early as Possible

 

This is the single highest-impact thing you can do. KPMG reviews applications on a rolling basis and fills spots as they go. Every week you wait means more positions are already taken. Having coached hundreds of candidates through Big Four applications, I can tell you that the strongest applicants who apply late often lose out to average applicants who applied early.

 

2. Perfect Your Resume

 

Your resume determines whether you get an interview. Dedicate at least a few days to refining it. Get feedback from peers, your school's career center, or a professional resume reviewer. Every bullet should quantify an accomplishment and start with a strong action verb.

 

3. Prepare 6 to 8 Stories for Behavioral Questions

 

Before your interview, prepare 6 to 8 detailed stories from your academic, professional, and extracurricular experiences. Make sure your stories collectively cover leadership, teamwork, problem solving, resilience, integrity, and communication. Having this bank of stories means you will never be caught off guard no matter what question they ask.

 

Only select stories that are genuinely impressive, impactful, or unique. The goal is to share the highlights of your experiences, not just any experience that is technically relevant.

 

4. Research KPMG Thoroughly

 

Go beyond surface-level research. Understand KPMG's three practice areas (Audit, Tax, Advisory) and be ready to explain which one interests you most. Review KPMG's values, their community impact work, and recent news. If you attended a KPMG event like Rise or Talent+, reference that experience in your interview.

 

Here are specific reasons you could give for why you want to work at KPMG:

 

• KPMG works with an impressive roster of clients across the world's most important industries.

 

• KPMG has a strong commitment to professional development, including mentorship and training at Lakehouse.

 

• The Embark Scholars rotational structure lets you explore all three practice areas before choosing one.

 

• KPMG has a strong global presence with opportunities for international exposure.

 

• KPMG is consistently ranked among the best companies to work for by Fortune Magazine.

 

5. Be Enthusiastic During Your Interviews

 

Interviewers love candidates who show genuine energy and passion. Professional services is fast-paced and demanding. Interviewers are balancing their own client work with recruiting responsibilities, so a candidate who walks in with energy and a smile makes their day better.

 

This matters more than most candidates realize. At the Embark Scholars level, interviewers are not expecting deep technical knowledge. They are looking for people they want to work with every day. Your enthusiasm and positive attitude can be the deciding factor between you and another equally qualified candidate.

 

6. Highlight Your Unique Perspective

 

KPMG designed Embark Scholars to bring diverse perspectives into the firm. If you are a first-generation college student, a community college transfer, or a member of an underrepresented group, your background is an asset. Share how your experiences have shaped your problem-solving abilities, your work ethic, or your perspective on collaboration.

 

If you have been involved in diversity-focused student organizations, community service, or campus leadership roles, mention those in both your resume and your interview. KPMG's job postings specifically list involvement in diversity organizations as a preferred qualification.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What Is the Acceptance Rate for KPMG Embark Scholars?

 

KPMG does not publish an official acceptance rate for Embark Scholars. However, Big Four internship programs are generally very competitive, with acceptance rates estimated in the single digits. Thousands of students apply each year for a limited number of spots. Strong academics, a polished resume, and thorough interview preparation will significantly improve your chances.

 

Can You Apply to KPMG Embark Scholars as a Junior?

 

No. KPMG requires that applicants have at least two years of education remaining before graduation. This means only freshmen and sophomores are eligible. If you are a junior or senior, you should apply for the standard KPMG summer internship instead, which offers a direct path to a full-time offer.

 

Does KPMG Sponsor Visas for Embark Scholars?

 

No. KPMG explicitly states that it will not sponsor applicants for U.S. work visa status for the Embark Scholars program. This includes H-1B, L-1, TN, O-1, F-1, J-1, OPT, CPT, and all other employment-based visas. You must be authorized to work in the United States without future sponsorship needs.

 

Is KPMG Embark Scholars Only for Minority Students?

 

Not exclusively. While the program strongly encourages applications from underrepresented racial and ethnic minorities, KPMG's official job postings state that the Embark internship is open to all eligible students. The program has also expanded to include first-generation college students and community college students. Meeting the academic and degree requirements makes you eligible regardless of your background.

 

What Percentage of KPMG Embark Scholars Get Full-Time Offers?

 

Over 95% of KPMG Embark Scholars participants receive a full-time job offer after graduation. This is one of the highest conversion rates of any Big Four internship program. Performing well during your rotations, building strong relationships with your mentors, and returning for a second-year practice internship are the keys to receiving an offer.

 

How Many Active Applications Can You Have at KPMG?

 

KPMG limits you to a maximum of two active applications at any time. This means you need to be strategic about which positions you apply for. If you apply to two Embark Scholar postings in different cities, you will not be able to apply for any other KPMG positions until one of those applications is closed.

 

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