Securing a role at PwC is no walk in the park. Being one of the top-tier global firms in audit and advisory, PwC draws an enormous pool of talent each recruiting season, so the selection process is really competitive. Whether you’re a recent graduate ready to launch a career, a professional looking to climb the ladder, or an experienced professional aiming for the designation of a manager/leader, the best path is preparing well.
This blog features a curated list of over fifty frequently asked PwC interview questions, sourced from PwC’s talent acquisition materials, leading career sites, and personal experiences.
Table of Contents
Overview
Although PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) was officially established in 1998 as a result of the merger of two prestigious companies, Price Waterhouse and Coopers & Lybrand, its roots can be traced back to 1849, when Samuel Lowell Price opened an accounting firm in London. PwC today is organised around three pillars: assurance, advisory, and tax & legal, with 370,000 employees spread over 149 countries. Sanjeev Krishan, a seasoned chartered accountant and chairperson with 31 years of experience, is leading PwC in India and is highly valued by businesses.
Understanding the PwC Interview Process
PwC’s recruitment process is designed with clear milestones, adjusting subtly with the job role and location. Most applicants will meet the following stages:
1. Online Application
Everything begins on the careers portal, often branded as Workday in certain areas. The application page lets you choose your line of service: Audit, Tax, Advisory, or Consulting before you upload your CV and fill in contact, education, and experience fields.
2. Online Assessment
Once your application clears the first filter, you’ll receive an invitation to complete remote assessments. Formats vary, but often include:
- Game-based scenarios allow you to demonstrate business-relevant competencies.
- Cognitive tests assessing numerical, verbal, and logical reasoning.
- Behavioural questionnaires, sometimes supplemented by region-specific technical or language tests.
3. Video Interview
Depending on the office and the role you’re pursuing, the next step might be one of two formats:
- Video Interviews: You respond to short, pre-defined questions, recording your answers for subsequent review.
- Assessment Centre: A full single-day programme including group role-plays, case studies, in-basket activities, and one-to-one interviews with multiple assessors.
4. HR or Business Interview
You might encounter one or several live panels, adjusted for your specific career level:
- HR Screening or Business Interview: This session reviews your career history, evaluates core capabilities, and assesses your motivation for choosing PwC. Applicants for advisory positions should prepare for competency questions complemented by short analytic case prompts.
- Next-level Interviews: For consulting or managerial roles, interviews may include multiple case simulations, presentations, or group discussions.
5. Final Interview with Partner or Director
Those who advance reach a one-on-one with a senior leader, generally a partner or director, for a 30-minute discussion. Evaluation centres on strategic judgement, people leadership, and alignment with PwC’s culture.
6. Offer & Onboarding
Successful candidates receive an offer, followed by onboarding via PwC’s pre-hire portal. This includes induction materials, compliance documentation, and an introduction to the firm’s values and expectations.
Apply through PwC’s career portal if you want to be a part of this prestigious organisation.
PwC Interview Questions for Freshers
Stepping into a PwC interview as a fresher can feel like entering one of the most competitive classrooms in the corporate world, but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. PwC expects you to perform at the highest level due to its extensive service offerings, global reputation, and emphasis on both technical expertise and core values.
1. Why do you want to work for PwC?
PwC’s global reputation and the opportunity to deal with clients in assurance, tax, and advisory services make me want to work there. I admire how PwC emphasises continuous learning and innovation, particularly with digital transformation and sustainability. I believe that PwC’s policies will resonate with me with the values of integrity, teamwork, and making a difference. I look forward to the skills I will develop in that environment and the difference I will make through significant work.
2. What do you know about PwC’s services and offerings?
PwC is one of the leading global professional services firms, offering assurance, advisory, and tax services. They’ve expanded into emerging areas like cybersecurity, sustainability, and digital transformation to serve client needs. I am particularly impressed by the firm’s deep industry expertise and the use of technology to drive impact for the clients. These and other recent initiatives have taught me about the firm’s commitment to innovation.
3. Describe a situation in which you’ve had to deal with a difficult person.
Once, I participated in a group project. A particular group member had a consistent struggle with the method we selected for the project and delayed the pace at which we were working. Rather than ignoring the problem, I tried to step to the side and talk through the issue with them. We reached a compromise through which some of their ideas were used, enhancing the overall quality of the report. Ultimately, the group was the strongest because we managed to find a way to respect one another’s choices.
4. Describe a problem you have encountered in your studies or work experience and how you managed to overcome it.
Right after midterms in my last year, we had a presentation due, and everyone was busy. I scheduled a simple meeting to help allocate roles and started as a content coordinator. My colleagues and I had daily check-ins and offered help until the presentation was complete. Though it was stressful, we cleared a lot of obstacles by working together.
5. Why do you want to work in this role?
Based on my academic history and interest in addressing issues, I believe this position is ideal. I researched the functions and types of clients for the role and found it very aligned with some of my competencies, like team-based data collection and analysis. I was also pleased to learn how this position provides cross-sectional exposure to PwC, which facilitates extensive learning. I wish to contribute and grow in a position that resonates with my aspirations.
6. What are your major achievements to date?
Among my most significant accomplishments was the creation of a finance workshop that drew over a hundred students and business professionals, which I organised as president of the business club at my university. In addition to my studies, I sponsored participants, organised the speakers, and took care of all other logistics. Witnessing how much participants gained made me realise the impact I could make, and it was deeply rewarding. That experience cultivated my leadership, communication, and project management skills.
7. What was the latest technology you learnt, what inspired you to learn it, and how has it been useful to you?
Just recently, I taught myself how to use Power BI by going through various tutorials and practising on my own. During my practice sessions, I uncovered how visually appealing dashboards can aid in simplifying complex data for easy understanding. Additionally, I examined a sales data simulation and produced dashboards that helped practice advanced forecasting by visualising key data. It was a very useful self-practice that enhanced my confidence in dealing with data, and I can’t wait to use it in a professional setting.
8. Tell us about a time when you led a team.
I worked with 3 other people on a class project, which I was leading. We brainstormed the different aspects of a business plan and assigned specific tasks to every team member to avoid overlap. I set up responsibilities for every member in the areas of modelling, presenting, and research. Then I streamlined all the tasks for the short daily check-ins. We reps also created a backup plan. When we hit the limit the team suggested, I organised a brief brainstorming session focused solely on financial modelling, and we completed it. The blend itself was brilliant. The relationship did all the work, and we managed to finalise the plan in record time.
9. Tell us about a time when you’ve shown courage or done something out of the ordinary.
Back in college, I volunteered to give a talk to other experienced people in the field, which I had never done before. It seemed very uncomfortable for me, but I made sure to prepare in depth and rehearse with friends. Feeling confident, I was ready to present, so I kept my presentation very simple. Afterwards, participants told me that my message was inspiring, and the confidence I gained inspired me to come out of my shell.
10. How do you handle constructive criticism and feedback?
I have always seen constructive criticism as an area for growth instead of an area where I have failed. For instance, my writing professor said my writing was good, but I needed to be more brief and organised. I took that advice to heart, and after enrolling in a writing workshop, I began practising to structure my main ideas in a better way. My writing style improved tremendously, and I now actively seek suggestions to refine my skills further.
11. How do you keep yourself updated with the latest industry trends?
I stay updated by reading reliable materials such as the Financial Times and PwC’s insights. Additionally, I hold subscriptions with PwC and other accounting organisations, as well as attend webinars and other events about taxation and other advisory trends. I stay up to date by interacting with alumni and other professionals on online discussion boards. These activities help me to prepare and stay ready for the dynamic environment at PwC.
12. How do you handle competing priorities when multiple deadlines are approaching?
I start by evaluating the urgency and impact of each task, then create a prioritisation plan. I break large tasks into smaller, manageable segments and set short-term milestones. I also communicate with stakeholders if needed to clarify expectations and ensure deadlines are realistic.
13. What motivates you to join PwC as a fresher?
PwC’s reputation for excellence and focus on professional growth motivates me. I’m drawn to its dynamic work culture, exposure to diverse clients, and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects early in my career.
PwC Interview Questions for Intermediate Professionals
For those with a few years of experience seeking an intermediate position at PwC, the interview process centres around your technical skills, analytical skills, and practical experience. You’ll also be evaluated on your company fit and how you balance client expectations against PwC’s requirements, which is crucial for your client engagement success.
14. How do you maintain client confidentiality in your work?
I handle client confidentiality as sensitively as possible, only accessing and sharing data on a need-to-know basis. In previous positions, I would use secure ways to share protected documents, ensuring those documents were safeguarded with passwords. I also verified addresses before transferring documents, which is the company’s best practice. This is a way to show trust and provide attestation.
15. How would you handle a client who is dissatisfied with our service?
To assist the client, I would first ensure that I have been briefed on the inconvenience, and to empathise, I would offer an apology to them and then initiate an inter-departmental strategy to rectify the problem while updating the client. I would certainly follow up post-engagement to confirm satisfaction and find out if there are any other additional services that need to be incorporated as a means of demonstrating the value of client servicing and accountability.
16. How would you act if your team resisted a new idea or policy you introduced?
I’d start by focusing on what their concerns are, what is worrying them, and what their resistance is all about. After that, I would clearly define the benefits, explaining the idea firsthand, and aid them with proper training or execution of a pilot run. They gradually become more responsive over time, appreciating the positive outcomes. This method aids in building trust along with increased buy-in.
17. How have you ensured data security and confidentiality in past projects?
In my previous role, I used secure document-sharing tools, encrypted emails, and strict access controls to protect sensitive client data. I also stayed compliant with GDPR and company policies, ensuring no unauthorised disclosures.
18. Can you share an example of a time you contributed beyond your core role to meet a client’s need?
In one instance, I had a client who needed a deeper analysis, which I did not have in-depth knowledge of. I spent time learning a data visualisation software, which I ended up using to create a trend dashboard. The client walked away satisfied with the information presented and the actions that could be taken. I showcased my flexibility and the lengths I could go to offer value.
19. How do you handle working in a stressful environment?
When it is busy, I take a more systematic and gradual approach to accomplish everything that needs to be done. I focus on reaching a number of objectives within a set period of time. At the same time, I coordinate with my team in regard to the discussed objectives to keep aware of the scheduled deadlines. Small breaks to re-energise are useful not just to remain calm but to be effective. It gives me a healthy balance and allows me to be productive.
20. How have you kept your professional skills up-to-date?
Webinars, industry publications, and PwC’s insights all form a part of my continuous learning investments. Moreover, I am part of professional communities for peer-to-peer idea exchange. Recently, I completed a data analytics course, which enabled me to better understand and deliver insights to my clients. This strategy ensures I am not left behind and always have fresh ideas to share.
21. How do you approach tough decisions at work?
To make tough decisions, I gather trusted colleagues’ perspectives, analyse data, and consider both short- and long-term impacts. Drawing from my conversations, I take decisive steps and stand by the decision, accepting all responsibility. If things fall apart, I analyse what went wrong so that I can correct my strategy for the next time I implement similar decisions. This way ensures more responsible and effective framing.
22. Can you describe a time you resisted an idea or policy introduced by leadership?
Actually, rather than resisting, I had to articulate concerns when our team was mandated to adopt a new tool that would disrupt workflows. I pointed out the need for adequate training that would not lead to loss of time. After that, we decided on a supported phased rollout, which made the transition easier and caused the least amount of disruption. This honesty, balanced with respect, allowed for more fluid transitions.
23. Can you discuss a scenario where you prepared a report outside your usual role?
During a situation when most senior employees did not attend the office, the team ran into a problem where they needed an initial version of a report prepared. I volunteered, put in the hours needed to gather information, organised the relevant sections, and conducted a review with the project manager. I was able to build a strong initial version, and the project manager endorsed my contributions. It showed dedication and a strong impression of flexibility.
24. How do you manage projects across different time zones or remote teams?
I use coordination and work profile calendars to find suitable meeting times and prepare schedules in advance, ensuring my documentation is organised so that others can work on it without needing to read it in real time. I can communicate using both Slack and Teams. Despite the distance, everyone remains in sync thanks to frequent check-ins and clarity. This strategy maintains smooth cross-border cooperation.
25. How do you know when you’re aligned with PwC’s values and culture?
PwC’s professional framework is something I try to internalise on a regular basis, especially the sections involving collaboration, integrity, and leadership. I recall from previous positions where I was gaining recognition as an honest communicator and team player, which led to favourable feedback. By thinking that way, I give myself the best chance to succeed with PwC’s vision for the firm and its long-term culture.
26. Describe a time you handled a fast-changing work situation.
One of my more challenging projects was where a client changed essential aspects of the brief during the last sprint. In a team meeting, I adjusted the sprint for the team and revised the project plan as necessary, thus managing client relations proactively. In terms of risk management and client expectations, it was highly appreciated that the total authorised level of work was managed in a calendar day, as task prioritisation is always a source of conflict for a client.
27. How do you ensure knowledge sharing among team members?
I document key processes in shared repositories, conduct walkthrough sessions, and encourage open discussions during weekly syncs. This ensures everyone stays aligned and can quickly resolve dependencies.
28. How would you explain a complex technical topic to a non-technical stakeholder?
To explain complex concepts, I use simple analogies and visuals such as flowcharts and dashboards. I even tell the audience what it means to their work to illustrate the impact. While describing the cost modelling process, I used the example of a household budget so it would resonate. I also followed up with them so that all questions, whatever the level of ambiguity, could be addressed as per the respondents’ comfort. This ensured that there was clarity and every stakeholder was on board.
PwC Interview Questions for Experienced Candidates
Interviews for experienced hires at PwC emphasise skills in ascertaining leadership attributes, domain knowledge, client relations, and presenting substantial client-impacting work. You will be challenged to demonstrate the level of knowledge you have in the field, your problem-solving methods, and business principles through real situations drawn from your career.
29. Can you explain a challenging project you managed and how you handled it?
In my last job, I managed a project with a tough deadline and many stakeholders. To meet the objectives, the first thing I did was to segment the project into smaller, more manageable milestones. Each milestone came with a deadline, specific tasks, and ownership. Progress meetings were also held regularly. In the event of roadblocks, I proactively worked with the appropriate stakeholders to streamline workarounds and kept the client adequately informed of the adjusted timelines.
30. How do you ensure accuracy while working on financial reports or data analysis?
Achieving and delivering accuracy in reports is an outcome of having a defined process. In my case, I gather information from various sources, then cross-validate against the last known modifying point, reconcile where necessary, and flag potential discrepancies with analytical tools. To enhance accuracy, I do a last check on the information before updating the clients and stakeholders.
31. How do you handle difficult clients or stakeholders?
To deal with some of the most challenging clients, I have found that giving them the basic courtesy of active listening is key. More so, I think it is understanding and appreciating where their concerns are coming from, acknowledging some, if not all, of their expectations, and giving them a well-crafted response tailored to facts. In case of a disagreement, I make it a point to explain what the business is trying to achieve and what is minimally acceptable to the client while ensuring a balance is in sight.
32. Describe a situation where you identified a process inefficiency and improved it.
One challenge I tackled in a previous position was the delay in report generation as a result of manual data entry. I suggested the use of Excel macros and simple dashboards to automate portions of the process. Through automation, the accuracy of the work was increased, and the amount of time the work took was reduced, increasing the productivity of the team in turn.
33. How do you prioritise tasks when managing multiple deadlines?
After evaluating each task for its urgency and importance, I formulate a deadline-driven plan. For time management, I track progress using project management tools like Jira and Trello. Priorities are reevaluated continuously, which helps ensure all deliverables are met well within the time frame and with the required quality.
34. What steps do you take to stay updated with PwC methodologies and industry trends?
I follow industry publications as well as attend PwC’s industry webinars and internal knowledge training sessions. This ensures I am equipped with the latest methodologies. To remain up to date on the most recent trends, technologies, and regulations within my field, I also read emerging publications and reports, as well as insights released by PwC.
35. How do you handle situations when team members disagree on an approach?
I advocate that all participants of a meeting, whether junior or senior, openly express their thoughts. I review all suggestions and analyse their merits and downsides to inform my decision, which is grounded on facts and business requirements. If a decision is still not reached, I refer the matter to the project lead or manager.
36. Can you share an example of how you improved client satisfaction in your previous role?
Project update delays led to one of my clients expressing dissatisfaction. To address this, I implemented a solution of weekly review meetings and shared progress dashboards. This encourages transparent communication with the client, which results in improved trust as well as enhanced communication and, overall, a solidified relationship.
37. How do you manage risks in large-scale projects?
During the initial stages of the project, I define the possible risk factors and compile them into a hierarchy of levels and categories. Then I make a mitigation plan that also includes backup plans for the most critical problems. To monitor the risks and make the required adjustments when needed, I also conduct frequent review meetings with the project’s stakeholders.
38. How do you handle strict compliance requirements in client engagements?
Before kicking off the project, I make sure that I fully understand all compliance policies. I work with the legal and compliance teams, if the need arises, and make sure that the team adheres to the policies of PwC and the policies of the client, if any. Compliance policies and the integrity of the audit are also adhered to by documenting every step of the process.
39. Tell me about a time when you led a cross-functional team.
I was in charge of a project that cut across several fields, that is, finance, operations, and IT teams. In order to get everyone to work in the same direction, I scheduled regular update sessions, assigned specific deliverables and milestones to be achieved, defined concrete roles, and set unified goals.
40. How do you ensure knowledge transfer within your team?
Documenting every detail, maintaining SOPs, and intensive training are all a part of ensuring knowledge transfer within a team so that the team does not stagnate. This makes it possible for other team members to work by staying on the same page and participating in the processes even when I am not present, allowing them to be completely functional.
41. What strategies do you use to manage stress in high-pressure situations?
I manage stress best when I give myself ample time and organise a detailed plan. I consider every challenge a set of smaller challenges. I also manage my stress by taking short breaks and doing deep breathing exercises. I manage my workload so that I can bring it up with my manager to discuss delegation to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
42. How do you handle conflicts between client expectations and PwC’s policies?
I focus on understanding both sides, clearly explaining PwC’s compliance requirements while finding alternative solutions that satisfy the client without violating policies. This builds trust and maintains regulatory adherence.
43. How do you handle situations when a project goes off track?
When I see a task falling behind its expected completion date, I conduct a full analysis, determine any issues, and hold discussions with all parties involved to get to a solution. When all is sorted and communicated, I prepare a new schedule, redistribute tasks, and set appropriate timeframes to get it completed. These actions enable maintenance of the standards expected for the task.
44. Why do you want to continue your career at PwC?
I appreciate the focus that PwC has on innovation, learning, and developing the client’s priorities. I would expect that the complex assignments and the multitude of team-based and collaborative opportunities would be a benefit to my professional development. At the same time, I am sure that my background and competencies would enable me to further enhance PwC’s expanding successes.
PwC Oracle Apps Technical Interview Questions
Candidates for technical positions with Oracle Applications-based PwC jobs will be interviewed on PL/SQL, workflows, forms, reports, and APIs. These are all modules of Oracle ERP and are meant to measure one’s technical and solution-providing capabilities.
45. What is a “Set of Books” and why is it important?
In Oracle Apps, a “Set of Books” captures the details of a chart of accounts, a calendar, a currency, and a combination of all. It serves as the foundational structure for financial reporting and ensures uniformity in accounting activities. In my previous position, I leveraged it to reconcile financial activities for several business units, which ensured precise consolidated reporting.
46. How do you call a standard interface program from PL/SQL in Oracle Apps?
A standard interface can be called using FND_REQUEST.SUBMIT_REQUEST and passing the application, program name, and runtime arguments as parameters. I have used this to call concurrent programs from forms and backend scripts in a flexible manner. This approach allows for the automation of batch processes and enhances efficiency in application workflows.
47. What is a Value Set, and how do its validation types work?
A “Value Set” in Oracle Apps defines the parameter values for reports or forms, such as lists, dates, or dynamic values. Types of validation include Independent, Table, Dependent, Special, and others. For instance, I applied Table validation to ensure that end users could not select vendor IDs that are not in the vendor master, thus improving the system’s data accuracy.
48. How do you handle multi-org context issues in Oracle Apps?
To manage multi-org data, the Operating Unit Context must be set using FND_CLIENT_INFO.SET_ORG_CONTEXT. I have applied this to ensure proper data partitioning in Oracle Apps screens and reports for users belonging to specific operating units. It guarantees that transactions and enquiries adhere to organisational boundaries.
49. What are Handlers in Oracle Applications, and what types exist?
Handlers serve as collections of packaged procedures that aid the centralisation of PL/SQL form logic, improving manageability within Oracle Apps. Some common examples are Item Handlers, Event Handlers, Table Handlers, and Business Rule Handlers. With these, I was able to integrate form triggers and logic, which significantly improved maintainability and minimised redundancy.
PwC SAP MM (Material Management) Interview Questions
In the case of SAP MM for PwC, the interview will centre around the procurement process, master data management, inventory control, and interfacing with other SAP modules. The interview focuses on your knowledge of the subject matter and practical skills.
50. What data is stored in the Material Master record?
The details within a material master comprise a material’s description, its classifications, units of measure, and the plants where it is stored. In my role, I made sure this information was accurate and updated promptly to enable the procurement, inventory, and production modules. Well-supported Material Masters enhance operational efficiency and lower transaction errors.
51. What goes into a Purchase Order in SAP MM?
A Purchase Order includes vendor details (name, contact, etc.), material specifics (quantity, price), delivery instructions, payment terms, and account assignment. I frequently created POs, ensuring each field was accurate to avoid downstream issues like incorrect invoicing or delivery delays. Proper PO setup enhances supplier engagement and transparency.
52. What is a Goods Receipt, and how is it handled in SAP MM?
A Goods Receipt acknowledges the receipt of the goods or services as per the Purchase Order and aids in matching deliveries to the orders. In my earlier jobs, I was using the GR transaction to log inbound materials as well as reconcile the inventory with the accounting information. It helps to balance the stock and the financials. Use MIGO or MB01 to process Goods Receipt.
53. What does Goods Issue mean in SAP MM?
Goods Issue represents the cut-off of stock for activities such as production and sale. I have processed GIs and was responsible for the correct document types and proper stock reduction. This helps in monitoring material usage and synchronises operational data with production or shipment activities. Typically processed via MB1A or MIGO.
54. How do Consignment and Subcontracting Purchase Orders differ?
A Consignment PO allows the beginning of procurement, but the vendor keeps ownership until the product is used, and then the payment is triggered. A Subcontracting PO is for sending the components to the vendor, and, in exchange, the vendor sends the finalised goods back. I have worked a lot with both. Consignment helped with cash flow, while subcontracting helped to reduce the difficulties in assembling the many parts of a machine.
Conclusion
Cracking a PwC interview requires more than just technical knowledge; it means showcasing your problem-solving skills, business knowledge, and flexibility. For fresh graduates, intermediate professionals, or seasoned candidates, the right preparation with tailored questions will set you ahead of the competition.
Improve your odds even more by exploring Intellipaat’s interview prep toolbox and identifying the exact competencies recruiters rate the highest.