PA Consulting Application Guide 2027
Every programme, deadline, and requirement for applying to PA Consulting. Plus a free CV checker to see if you pass screening.
Programmes
PA Consulting programmes
Consultant
Eligibility
Final-year undergraduates and Master's graduates
Opens
September
Deadline
October-November
Duration
Full-time permanent
Summer Intern
~70-85% conversionEligibility
Penultimate-year undergraduates
Opens
September
Deadline
October-November
Duration
8-10 weeks
Requirements
What PA Consulting looks for
Innovation mindset — PA is about turning ideas into reality. Show you think creatively and implement, not just advise.
Technical curiosity — PA combines consulting with engineering. Interest in technology and design matters.
Structured thinking — Cases still require frameworks. But PA values creative approaches more than textbook ones.
Implementation focus — PA doesn't just write reports — they build things. Show you care about delivery.
Client orientation — Long-term client relationships. Show you can build trust.
Adaptability — Projects span strategy, technology, engineering, and design. Show breadth.
Grade requirements
No published minimum, but First or strong 2:1 typically expected. Diverse academic backgrounds valued.
Tips
How to apply to PA Consulting
PA combines consulting with engineering and design. Show you value innovation and implementation, not just strategy.
PA is employee-owned. Understand what this means for culture and incentives.
Innovation labs are PA's differentiator. They prototype and test solutions, not just recommend them.
Public sector and healthcare are key sectors. Know current government digital transformation.
PA doesn't just advise — they implement. Show you value delivery over slide decks.
Know the difference between PA and MBB — PA is more hands-on and technical.
Proofread everything. PA Consulting receives thousands of applications — copy-paste errors from other firms are obvious and result in immediate rejection.
CV check
Check your CV for PA Consulting
Before you submit to PA Consulting, check whether your CV would pass their screening stage. Paste your CV text below and get an instant AI-scored analysis covering ATS compatibility, keyword coverage, and section-by-section feedback.
Drop your CV here
Supports PDF and Word documents (.docx)
Your CV scored against PA Consulting's screening criteria. See the full breakdown — including missing keywords, phrasing optimisation, and model bullet rewrites — inside Intervyo. Start free trial →
CV standards
PA Consulting CV requirements
One page maximum — consulting firms screen hundreds of CVs. Be concise.
Education first, then experience. Include degree classification, relevant coursework, and academic achievements.
Quantify everything — consulting values measurable impact. "Increased efficiency by 30%" beats "improved processes".
Leadership experience is essential for PA Consulting — they want evidence of driving outcomes, not just participating.
Include analytical skills — case competitions, data analysis, financial modelling, programming languages.
Interests section optional but useful if distinctive — demonstrates breadth.
Success rates
PA Consulting conversion rates
| Stage | Conversion |
|---|---|
| Application → Online assessment | Selective |
| Online assessment → First round | Estimated ~20-30% |
| First round → Final round | Estimated ~30-50% |
| Final round → Offer | Estimated ~40-60% |
| Summer intern → Full-time offer | Typically 70-85% |
| Overall application → offer | Estimated ~5-7% |
FAQ
PA Consulting application FAQs
More PA Consulting guides
Prepare for every stage of the PA Consulting process
AI-scored HireVue practice, CV checker, psychometric tests, and firm-specific question banks. Free for 3 days.
Prepare for PA ConsultingFree for 3 days · No card charged until trial ends · Cancel anytime