PwC Associate Interview Questions & Experience Guide

Interview Preparation
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81

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Round:
    • Questions Asked:
      • SAP functional question on past projects.
    • Your Approach:
      • I discussed my past projects involving SAP, focusing on my role, the challenges faced, and how I resolved them. I also highlighted any improvements or optimizations I contributed to.
    • Outcome:
      • [Outcome not specified]

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on SAP functional knowledge, especially related to your past projects.
  • Be ready to discuss real-world scenarios and problem-solving approaches in detail.

Conclusion:

  • The interview was straightforward but required a deep understanding of SAP functionalities. I could have prepared more case studies to showcase my expertise better. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on practical examples and being concise in your answers.
82

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Location not provided]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    • What is VDOM?
    • What is the use of useMemo?

  • Your Approach:

    • For the VDOM question, I explained that VDOM (Virtual DOM) is a lightweight copy of the actual DOM used in frameworks like React to improve performance by minimizing direct manipulations of the DOM.
    • For useMemo, I described it as a React hook used to optimize performance by memoizing expensive calculations so they are only recomputed when dependencies change.

  • Outcome: [Result of this round not provided]

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on core React concepts, especially hooks like useMemo and the Virtual DOM.
  • Practice explaining technical concepts clearly and concisely.

Conclusion:

The interview was straightforward but focused on practical knowledge of React. I felt confident in my answers, but I could have prepared more real-world examples to illustrate my points better. For future candidates, I’d recommend diving deep into React’s core features and understanding their use cases thoroughly.

83

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: The application process began with a resume shortlist round, followed by a technical interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist Round:

    • Questions Asked: Proper alignment and formatting of the resume were emphasized. Recruiters look for well-structured resumes to ensure clarity and professionalism.
    • Your Approach: I ensured my resume was neatly formatted, with clear headings and bullet points to highlight my skills and experiences.
    • Outcome: My resume was shortlisted, and I moved on to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Questions about auditing and some IT-related topics.
      2. “Why do you want to work with PwC?”
    • Your Approach: For the auditing and IT questions, I answered confidently, even if I wasn’t entirely sure, by relating them to my past experiences. For the “Why PwC” question, I highlighted the company’s reputation, values, and how they align with my career goals.
    • Outcome: The interviewers seemed satisfied with my responses, and I felt confident about my performance.

Preparation Tips:

  • Answer questions confidently, even if you’re unsure. Confidence can make a big difference.
  • Research the company thoroughly to answer “Why this company?” effectively.
  • Ensure your resume is well-formatted and easy to read.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and professional. I learned the importance of confidence and preparation. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing common interview questions and tailoring your answers to the company’s values and requirements.

84

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI)

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at the Institute of Chartered Accountant of India (ICAI) in April 2022.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

  • Questions Asked: N/A (Resume-based shortlisting)

  • Your Approach: Ensured my resume was crisp and highlighted relevant skills and experiences.

  • Outcome: Successfully shortlisted for the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    1. What are the types of audit opinions?
    2. What is audit risk?

  • Your Approach: Answered the questions based on my knowledge of auditing standards and practical experience.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round and progressed further in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on auditing topics, especially IND AS and audit-related questions.
  • Keep your resume concise and tailored to the role.

Conclusion:
The interview process was smooth, and the questions were aligned with the role’s requirements. Preparing thoroughly for auditing concepts and ensuring a well-structured resume helped me succeed. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on core auditing subjects and practicing common interview questions.

85

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: I applied through campus placement in December 2021.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

    • Questions Asked: No specific questions were asked in this round. The focus was on reviewing my resume.
    • Your Approach: I ensured my resume was concise and highlighted my academic background and relevant skills.
    • Outcome: My resume was shortlisted for the next round.

  • Round 2 - Aptitude Test:

    • Questions Asked: The test covered English, quantitative reasoning, accounting, and Excel.
    • Your Approach: I brushed up on basic accounting principles and practiced quantitative reasoning questions beforehand.
    • Outcome: I cleared the aptitude test and moved to the technical round.

  • Round 3 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Accounting principles, journal entries, and detailed questions on depreciation (methods, adjustments, and how it reflects in the balance sheet and P/L).
      • Tax slabs, heads of income tax, differences between exemption and deduction, deduction limits (80C and 80TTA), bank reconciliation statements, and a few financial ratios.
    • Your Approach: I revised my accounting concepts thoroughly, especially depreciation and taxation, and practiced journal entries.
    • Outcome: The round went well, and I was able to answer most questions confidently.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on your academic background and any previous job experience relevant to the role.
  • Revise accounting principles, especially depreciation and taxation, as they are commonly asked.
  • Practice aptitude questions, including quantitative reasoning and English, to clear the initial rounds.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and the questions were aligned with the role. I could have prepared more on financial ratios and reconciliation statements, but my strong grasp of accounting principles helped me through. My advice to future candidates is to thoroughly revise core accounting topics and stay calm during the interview.

86

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Online Assessment:

    • Questions Asked: Core Java, Spring Boot, Hibernate, SQL MCQ (Moderate level), 2 coding problems (Moderate level, focused on logical thinking).
    • Your Approach: Prepared by revising Core Java and Spring Boot concepts, practiced SQL queries, and solved coding problems to improve logical thinking.
    • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Core Java basics and advanced topics, Spring Boot (annotations, MVC design, exception handling, controllers, endpoints), REST API concepts, NoSQL databases, RDBMS, SQL, microservices architecture.
    • Your Approach: Focused on explaining concepts clearly, gave examples where necessary, and discussed real-world applications of microservices.
    • Outcome: Advanced to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Managerial (and Technical) Interview:

    • Questions Asked: Project architecture, cloud and microservices experience, Agile methodologies, SDLC, day-to-day routine.
    • Your Approach: Highlighted relevant project experiences, discussed Agile practices, and explained how I handle daily tasks and challenges.
    • Outcome: Moved forward to the HR round.

  • Round 4 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked: Why PwC, previous experiences, expectations, and career goals.
    • Your Approach: Shared genuine reasons for wanting to join PwC, aligned my experiences with the role, and discussed my long-term aspirations.
    • Outcome: Awaiting final results.

Preparation Tips:

  • Revise Core Java and Spring Boot thoroughly, especially annotations and MVC design.
  • Practice SQL queries and understand NoSQL databases.
  • Be prepared to discuss microservices and Agile methodologies in detail.
  • Solve coding problems to sharpen logical thinking.

Conclusion:
The interview process was comprehensive and tested both technical and managerial skills. I felt well-prepared for the technical rounds but could have practiced more behavioral questions for the HR round. My advice to future candidates is to focus on clear communication and real-world examples when explaining technical concepts.

87

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: Noida

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at ICAI Institute of Chartered Accountants, Noida in March 2022.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Transfer Pricing applicability

  • Your Approach: I explained the concept of Transfer Pricing and its relevance in multinational transactions, citing examples from my studies and articleship.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - Behavioral Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    • Problems faced during articleship

  • Your Approach: I shared a specific challenge I encountered, how I addressed it, and what I learned from the experience.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Be confident and straightforward in your responses.
  • Brush up on technical concepts like Transfer Pricing and be ready to discuss real-life experiences from your articleship.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and focused on both technical knowledge and behavioral aspects. Being well-prepared and confident helped me perform well. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing clear communication and staying calm during the interview.

88

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist Round:

  • Questions Asked: Resume screening for spelling mistakes and overall presentation.

  • Your Approach: Ensured the resume was error-free and well-structured.

  • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

  • Questions Asked: “Tell me about yourself.”

  • Your Approach: Gave a concise summary of my background, skills, and interest in the role.

  • Outcome: Advanced to the technical rounds.

  • Round 3 - Technical Round 1:

  • Questions Asked: Questions about CARO 2020, Schedule 3, IND AS 12, 15, 19, GSTR9, 9C amendments, MAT, and GST amendments.

  • Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly by revising relevant accounting and tax standards.

  • Outcome: Moved to the next technical round.

  • Round 4 - Technical Round 2 (Director Round):

  • Questions Asked: Resume-related questions and further details on CARO 2020.

  • Your Approach: Discussed my resume in detail and elaborated on my knowledge of CARO 2020.

  • Outcome: Final selection decision was made.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on revising key accounting standards like CARO 2020, IND AS, and GST amendments.
  • Ensure your resume is error-free and highlights relevant skills.
  • Be prepared to discuss your resume in detail during the director round.

Conclusion:
The interview process was thorough, with a strong emphasis on technical knowledge. The first technical round seemed crucial in the selection process. Overall, it was a great learning experience, and I would advise future candidates to focus on their technical preparation and resume presentation.

89

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: I applied through the company website and was interviewed in July 2021.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
      • Technical questions related to your experience.
      • If you’re shifting careers, why are you looking for a change?
      • Behavioral questions.
    • Your Approach: I focused on aligning my answers with my resume, ensuring consistency. For technical questions, I stuck to what I knew and avoided guessing. For behavioral questions, I provided honest and structured responses.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

  • Round 2 - HR Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • Similar behavioral and situational questions.
      • Questions about my motivation for joining PwC.
    • Your Approach: I emphasized my interest in the role and company, backed by research about PwC. I also asked questions about the job and company culture.
    • Outcome: Cleared this round as well.

  • Round 3 - Final Interview:

    • Questions Asked:
      • More in-depth technical and behavioral questions.
      • Scenario-based questions to assess problem-solving skills.
    • Your Approach: I remained calm and structured my answers logically. For scenarios, I walked through my thought process step-by-step.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the final round and received the offer.

Preparation Tips:

  • Stick to what you’ve mentioned in your resume. Ensure your answers align with your resume details.
  • Avoid giving false answers or guessing if you’re unsure. Honesty is key.
  • Always ask questions about the job and company to show your interest and engagement.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was thorough but fair. Being honest and consistent in my responses helped me succeed. For future candidates, I’d recommend thorough preparation, especially on your resume details and behavioral questions, and to stay confident throughout the process.

90

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: I applied via a recruitment consultant and was interviewed before April 2021.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

    • Outcome: My resume was shortlisted for further rounds.

  • Round 2 - One-on-one Round:

    • Questions Asked: Domain-related questions.
    • Your Approach: I answered based on my knowledge and experience in the domain.
    • Outcome: I progressed to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked: Questions about Scrum and testing.
    • Your Approach: I explained my understanding of Scrum methodologies and testing processes.
    • Outcome: I cleared the technical round.

  • Round 4 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. What are your salary expectations?
      2. What is your family background?
      3. Why are you looking for a change?
      4. Tell me about yourself.
    • Your Approach: I answered honestly and aligned my responses with the role and company culture.
    • Outcome: I successfully completed the HR round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Prepared well as per the job description. Having additional skills is a plus.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and I felt well-prepared. Focusing on the job description and brushing up on domain-specific knowledge helped me perform well. For future candidates, I’d recommend tailoring your responses to the role and being clear about your expectations during the HR round.

91

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: I applied via a referral and was interviewed before May 2023.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Coding Test:

    • Questions Asked: SQL, Java, and a verbal round.
    • Your Approach: I focused on brushing up my SQL and Java basics before the test. For the verbal round, I practiced clear and concise communication.
    • Outcome: I passed this round and moved to the next stage.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

    • Questions Asked: HR questions and very basic questions on SQL and data structures.
    • Your Approach: I prepared for common HR questions and revised basic SQL and data structure concepts.
    • Outcome: The round went well, and I received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on SQL and Java basics if applying for a technical role.
  • Practice clear communication for verbal rounds.
  • Revise basic data structures and common HR questions.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth. I felt well-prepared for the technical rounds, but I could have spent more time on HR preparation. My advice to future candidates is to balance technical and soft skills preparation equally.

92

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: [Application process details not provided]

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Round:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
    • Your Approach: [Candidate’s approach not provided]
    • Outcome: [Result of this round not provided]

Top Skills Recommended for PwC Associate Interview:

  • Operations
  • Supply Chain
  • Data Management
  • ERP
  • System Integration
  • Business Strategy
  • Agile
  • Oracle

Conclusion: [Overall experience and final advice not provided]

93

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Not specified]

Application Process: I applied for the Associate role at PwC through Naukri.com and was interviewed before April 2023.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - HR Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    1. Tell me about yourself.
    2. What have you previously worked upon?
    3. How much experience do you have in Analytics?

  • Your Approach:

    • For the first question, I briefly introduced myself, highlighting my educational background and relevant experience.
    • For the second question, I discussed my previous roles and projects, focusing on skills and achievements.
    • For the third question, I shared my experience in analytics, mentioning specific tools or methodologies I’ve worked with.

  • Outcome: [Result not specified]

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on your resume and be ready to discuss your past experiences in detail.
  • Prepare to talk about your analytical skills and any relevant tools (e.g., Python, SAP) you’ve used.
  • Practice answering common HR questions to build confidence.

Conclusion:
The interview was straightforward, focusing on my background and experience. I felt prepared, but I could have been more specific about my analytics projects. For future candidates, I’d recommend thoroughly reviewing your resume and being ready to elaborate on your skills and experiences.

94

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: Not specified

Application Process: I applied via the company website and was interviewed in August 2022.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

    • Questions Asked: None (resume screening round).
    • Your Approach: Ensured my resume was concise and highlighted relevant skills and experiences.
    • Outcome: Passed to the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Round:

    • Questions Asked:
      1. Types of Internal Control.
      2. What are the management assertions?
    • Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly on internal controls and assertion-based case studies.
    • Outcome: Successfully answered the questions and advanced in the process.

Preparation Tips:

  • Read thoroughly about internal controls and assertion-based case studies.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth, and I found the technical round to be quite insightful. Focusing on key concepts like internal controls and assertions helped me perform well. For future candidates, I’d recommend brushing up on these topics and ensuring your resume is crisp and to the point.

95

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mumbai

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at IIT Mumbai before April 2023.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Case Study Round:

  • Questions Asked: Resume-based questions were asked.

  • Your Approach: Prepared thoroughly on my resume, ensuring I could explain every detail and project mentioned. Focused on aligning my experiences with the role’s requirements.

  • Outcome: Successfully cleared this round.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    • What are your strengths and weaknesses?

  • Your Approach: Answered honestly, highlighting strengths relevant to the role (e.g., analytical skills, teamwork) and mentioned a weakness I was actively working on (e.g., time management).

  • Outcome: Cleared this round as well.

Preparation Tips:

  • Brush up on your resume thoroughly; expect detailed questions on every point.
  • Practice common HR questions like strengths and weaknesses, ensuring your answers are concise and relevant to the role.
  • For case study rounds, focus on problem-solving frameworks and how to articulate your thought process clearly.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process was smooth and well-structured. The key was being confident and well-prepared for both technical and HR aspects. For future candidates, I’d recommend practicing case studies and refining your resume to align with the job description.

96

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: The application was submitted online through the company’s career portal.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Technical Round:
    • Questions Asked:
      • Tell me about yourself.
    • Your Approach: I prepared a concise and structured answer highlighting my educational background, relevant skills, and any prior experience that aligns with the role. I also mentioned my enthusiasm for the position and the company.
    • Outcome: The round went well, and I received positive feedback on my clarity and confidence.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on crafting a clear and engaging self-introduction.
  • Research the company and role to tailor your answers accordingly.
  • Practice speaking confidently and concisely.

Conclusion:
The interview was a great learning experience. I realized the importance of being well-prepared and confident while answering even the simplest questions. For future candidates, I’d advise practicing your introduction thoroughly and ensuring it reflects your strengths and alignment with the role.

97

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: The application process involved three rounds: Resume Shortlist, HR, and Technical. I applied through the company’s career portal.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist Round:

  • Questions Asked: None explicitly, but the resume was thoroughly reviewed for alignment, formatting, and content.

  • Your Approach: I ensured my resume was well-structured, properly aligned, and highlighted relevant skills and experiences.

  • Outcome: My resume was shortlisted for the next round.

  • Round 2 - HR Round:

  • Questions Asked: “Tell me something about yourself.”

  • Your Approach: I gave a concise summary of my background, key skills, and why I was interested in the role at PwC.

  • Outcome: I successfully moved to the next round.

  • Round 3 - Technical Round:

  • Questions Asked: Questions focused on Ind AS-115 and 116, requiring a good understanding of Standards on Auditing.

  • Your Approach: I reviewed the relevant auditing standards beforehand and provided clear, structured answers.

  • Outcome: The round went well, and I received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Ensure your resume is well-formatted and easy to read.
  • Brush up on auditing standards like Ind AS-115 and 116 if applying for roles requiring technical knowledge.
  • Be concise and clear in your responses during the HR round.

Conclusion:
Overall, the interview process at PwC was smooth and well-structured. The work pressure is moderate, which contributes to a positive work environment. For future candidates, I’d recommend focusing on resume presentation and technical knowledge relevant to the role.

98

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: Applied through campus placement.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Aptitude Test:

  • Questions Asked: General aptitude questions covering MS Excel, grammar, and language skills.

  • Your Approach: Focused on brushing up on basic aptitude topics and practiced Excel functions beforehand.

  • Outcome: Cleared the round successfully.

  • Round 2 - One-on-One Interview:

  • Questions Asked:

    1. Tell me about yourself.
    2. Few technical questions on Accounts.

  • Your Approach: Prepared a concise introduction for the first question and revised core accounting concepts for the technical part.

  • Outcome: Performed well and received positive feedback.

Preparation Tips:

  • Be confident and thoroughly prepare for the job role, especially the technical aspects.
  • Practice aptitude questions and Excel skills if required.

Conclusion:
The overall experience was smooth, and the interviewers were supportive. Being well-prepared and confident helped me perform better. For future candidates, I’d advise focusing on both aptitude and technical knowledge relevant to the role.

99

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Location: [Location not specified]

Application Process: Applied via campus placement at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) before September 2021.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - One-on-one Round:
    • Questions Asked:
      1. Fundamentals of accounting.
      2. 5 steps to recognise revenue as per Ind AS.
      3. What do you mean by exempted lease as per Ind AS 116?
    • Your Approach: Focused on providing clear and concise answers, drawing from my articleship experience and knowledge of accounting standards.
    • Outcome: Successfully cleared the round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Always share your articleship exposure in a short and concise way. If you want to emphasize a particular field, mention how you are fit for that field by highlighting relevant experience points.

Conclusion:
The interview was a great learning experience. Being well-prepared with the fundamentals of accounting and Ind AS standards helped me perform confidently. For future candidates, I’d advise focusing on clarity and relevance in your responses, especially when discussing your practical experience.

100

Company Name: PwC

Position: Associate

Application Process: The application process began with a resume shortlist round, followed by a technical interview.

Interview Rounds:

  • Round 1 - Resume Shortlist:

  • Questions Asked: N/A (Resume-based shortlisting)

  • Your Approach: Ensured my resume was concise, highlighting relevant skills and experiences without including unnecessary personal details like photos, gender, age, or address.

  • Outcome: Successfully shortlisted for the next round.

  • Round 2 - Technical Round:

  • Questions Asked:

    1. What is materiality?
    2. What is audit risk?

  • Your Approach: Prepared by revising core accounting and auditing concepts, focusing on definitions and practical applications. Answered the questions clearly and confidently.

  • Outcome: Cleared the technical round.

Preparation Tips:

  • Focus on core auditing and accounting concepts like materiality and audit risk.
  • Keep your resume concise and relevant, avoiding unnecessary personal details.
  • Practice answering technical questions clearly and confidently.

Conclusion:
The interview process was straightforward, with a strong emphasis on technical knowledge. Preparing well for the technical round and ensuring a clean resume were key to my success. Future candidates should focus on these areas to improve their chances.