Should I go for Deloitte or RSM audit graduate role

Hi everyone,
I’m currently deciding between two graduate audit roles — one from Deloitte (London) and one from RSM (Leicester). Both roles are great opportunities, but the main factor I’m struggling with is the start date.
RSM’s graduate intake begins in January 2026, while Deloitte’s starts in September 2026. I’m leaning slightly towards RSM because starting earlier would allow me to make progress on my ACA exams sooner, meaning I could potentially qualify as a chartered accountant earlier than if I waited to start with Deloitte.
That said, I know Deloitte’s London role might offer broader exposure, a larger client base, and possibly more networking opportunities. So I’m trying to figure out whether it’s worth prioritising starting (and qualifying) earlier with RSM, or waiting for the bigger firm and location with Deloitte.
If anyone has been in a similar position or has insight into how much difference the timing of ACA exams really makes long-term, I’d really appreciate your thoughts!
(P.S. I haven't yet gotten an offer from Deloitte since I have my final stage this Monday but I'm just thinking ahead incase I do get the offer and whether I should turn RSM down for this)

Hi everyone,
I’m currently deciding between two graduate audit roles — one from Deloitte (London) and one from RSM (Leicester). Both roles are great opportunities, but the main factor I’m struggling with is the start date.
RSM’s graduate intake begins in January 2026, while Deloitte’s starts in September 2026. I’m leaning slightly towards RSM because starting earlier would allow me to make progress on my ACA exams sooner, meaning I could potentially qualify as a chartered accountant earlier than if I waited to start with Deloitte.
That said, I know Deloitte’s London role might offer broader exposure, a larger client base, and possibly more networking opportunities. So I’m trying to figure out whether it’s worth prioritising starting (and qualifying) earlier with RSM, or waiting for the bigger firm and location with Deloitte.
If anyone has been in a similar position or has insight into how much difference the timing of ACA exams really makes long-term, I’d really appreciate your thoughts!
(P.S. I haven't yet gotten an offer from Deloitte since I have my final stage this Monday but I'm just thinking ahead incase I do get the offer and whether I should turn RSM down for this)

Hi everyone,
I’m currently deciding between two graduate audit roles — one from Deloitte (London) and one from RSM (Leicester). Both roles are great opportunities, but the main factor I’m struggling with is the start date.
RSM’s graduate intake begins in January 2026, while Deloitte’s starts in September 2026. I’m leaning slightly towards RSM because starting earlier would allow me to make progress on my ACA exams sooner, meaning I could potentially qualify as a chartered accountant earlier than if I waited to start with Deloitte.
That said, I know Deloitte’s London role might offer broader exposure, a larger client base, and possibly more networking opportunities. So I’m trying to figure out whether it’s worth prioritising starting (and qualifying) earlier with RSM, or waiting for the bigger firm and location with Deloitte.
If anyone has been in a similar position or has insight into how much difference the timing of ACA exams really makes long-term, I’d really appreciate your thoughts!
(P.S. I haven't yet gotten an offer from Deloitte since I have my final stage this Monday but I'm just thinking ahead incase I do get the offer and whether I should turn RSM down for this)

I'd suggest going to Deloitte, since they are a much bigger firm and the Deloitte name alone on your CV will be a great help.
That being said, RSM is also a great company where you can have a nice career with.

Can I ask how the FSA went? Any tips you can offer?

Hi everyone,
I’m currently deciding between two graduate audit roles — one from Deloitte (London) and one from RSM (Leicester). Both roles are great opportunities, but the main factor I’m struggling with is the start date.
RSM’s graduate intake begins in January 2026, while Deloitte’s starts in September 2026. I’m leaning slightly towards RSM because starting earlier would allow me to make progress on my ACA exams sooner, meaning I could potentially qualify as a chartered accountant earlier than if I waited to start with Deloitte.
That said, I know Deloitte’s London role might offer broader exposure, a larger client base, and possibly more networking opportunities. So I’m trying to figure out whether it’s worth prioritising starting (and qualifying) earlier with RSM, or waiting for the bigger firm and location with Deloitte.
If anyone has been in a similar position or has insight into how much difference the timing of ACA exams really makes long-term, I’d really appreciate your thoughts!
(P.S. I haven't yet gotten an offer from Deloitte since I have my final stage this Monday but I'm just thinking ahead incase I do get the offer and whether I should turn RSM down for this)

Can I ask how the FSA went? Any tips you can offer?

Sent you a pm!

Can I ask how the FSA went? Any tips you can offer?